by Willow Watcher » Wed May 10, 2006 1:16 pm
[b]I like to thank everyone who left feedback. I'm happy that you are enjoying this story. I thought I would give a litte more to you all and post 2 count 'em TWO chapters. Hope you like.)
CHAPTER 7
Tara walked down the stairs. The smell of bacon filled her nose.
“Good morning Tara.” Ann stood over an iron skillet on the stove.
“Morning. That smells g-good.” Tara sat at the table.
“Where’s Willow?” Ann asked.
“She’s s-still asleep. I decided to l-leave her alone.”
“Tara, I heard you and her argue last night. I wasn’t eavesdropping, your voice carried to my room. Thin walls and plus I haven’t had any company in this house for years.” Ann placed a plate of food in front of Tara.
“We s-sorted everything out.” Tara put a piece of bacon in her mouth.
“Does Willow really make you feel out of place?” Ann opened up the refrigerator for some juice.
“No.” Tara shook her head.
“I don’t mean to pry, but it just seems like to me that she thinks of you as the junior partner.” Ann placed a glass of juice in front of Tara.
“I d-don’t think she d-does.”
“Do you love her Tara?” Ann sat down at the table.
“Of course I d-do.” Tara creased her brows together.
“So you have told her then, right?”
Tara nodded as she ate.
“How can you love someone and only known them for a few days?” Ann said with doubt in her voice.
“I just know. Willow is the one f-for me. I f-feel it in m-my heart.” Tara said with confidence.
“Does she feel the same way?”
“I s-suppose so.” Tara said.
“So she hasn’t told you? You made love to her, you confessed your love for her but she hasn’t told you the same?” Ann tilted her head to the side.
“We…we haven’t m-made l-love yet.” Tara said almost in a whisper.
“Oh O.K. I get it. It’s just that yesterday you told me that she was your lover. I just got a little confused.”
“Well, I am w-waiting for Willow. I w-will always wait f-for her.” Tara held her head up high.
“That’s sweet. I just hope she makes you happy.” Ann smiled at Tara.
“She does. S-she is the happiest th-thing that h-has happened in m-my life.” Tara smiled at her own words.
“Tara, I have read about people that lived in a very negative home environment and found love but it dwindles shortly after. I’m just wondering if you are just clinging to the first person that has ever shown you positive affection.”
“That’s n-not the reason.” Tara’s anger was rising. “That’s not the reason at all!” Tara pushed her plate away and stomped upstairs.
Tara burst in the bedroom and slammed the door behind her.
Willow sat up with a jolt. She blinked her eyes rapidly trying to regain focus.
“Willow.” Tara stood at the end of the bed.
“Yes baby.” Willow cleared her dry throat.
“Tell me.” Tara sat down on the edge.
“What honey?” Willow was still shaken by the abrupt awakening.
“I l-love you Willow, now tell m-me you l-love me.” Tara said almost pleading.
“Tara, what?” Willow questioned.
“I want you t-to tell me you l-love me.”
“Tara, yesterday you told me not to say it just because you did. What’s this about?” Willow was becoming more confused.
“I also t-told you not to say it unless y-you meant it.” Tara jutted out her chin, determined for Willow to say what she wanted so desperately to hear.
“Tara, I…I…” Her mind screamed but the words stuck in her throat.
Tears started forming in Tara’s eyes. “You c-can’t say it. Can you? Why can’t you say it?”
“Tara tell me what the fucking hell is going on!” Willow yelled not understanding.
Tara took in a staggering breath, “I’m afraid that things are ch-changing between us fast.”
“Baby things happened between us fast, but that doesn’t matter. Tell me what’s wrong please.” Willow was practically begging for some kind of explanation.
“I j-just feel like the j-junior partner.” Tara said using Ann’s words.
“Did I do something to make you think that? If I did tell me because I’m likely to do it again and in public.” Willow smiled at her own little joke trying to lighten the dreadful mood.
“I s-suppose I’m a little jealous. It j-just frightens m-me how independent you are.”
“That’s a strange word. It frightens you? I frighten you?” Willow was shocked.
“Th-that is so not what I meant. I meant it impresses…impressive.” Tara jumped off the bed and stood to face Willow.
Willow sat up further on the bed. “I know what you meant. Tara I know I can be a little wild and outgoing sometimes but that’s who I am. And if I’ve given you some reason of doubt…Don’t you trust me?”
“With my life.” Tara confessed.
“That’s not what I mean.” Willow said plainly.
“Hey Ann h-has breakfast r-ready.” Tara tried her best to get out of this conversation.
“I’m not really feeling up for the most important meal of the day.” Willow stood and walked closer to the blonde. “What is it about me you don’t trust?”
Tara’s shoulders dropped, “Its n-not that. I w-worry s-sometimes. I f-feel like you are g-going to leave me behind. And I d-don’t know where you are heading after all th-this is over.”
“Where I’m heading?” Willow asked.
“I’m s-saying everything wrong.” Tara looked around and then back at Willow.
“No I think you’re being pretty clear. This isn’t about the independent thing. It’s about me not being able to say what you want me to say.”
“I trust you. It’s j-just…I don’t know where I’m gonna fit in you l-life when...” The hurt was seen clearly on Tara’s face.
“What? When I go back home and you’re not going to be there. Yeah this is a fling for me. You think that?” The known temper of the redhead was rising.
“Should I?” Tara asked trying to make a stand.
“I’m sorry that I wasn’t initiated into your kiddy club house. You’re the only woman I’ve ever fallen in love with, but I suppose you’re too immature to ever take me seriously.” Tears streamed down Willow’s face as she walked towards the door.
“Willow please.” Tara begged while she watched Willow. Tara heard Willow’s confession, but it was too late.
“Have fun with you’re new life!” Willow walked out slamming the door behind her.
Tara sat down on the bed. She dropped her face in her hands and cried.
Willow walked down the steps with her gym bag hung on her shoulders.
Ann walked in the foyer, “Willow, where are you going?”
Willow opened the front door, “I’m fuckin’ leaving.” With that she slammed the door.
Ann walked up the stairs.
“Tara.” Ann knocked on the door as she entered.
Tara sat there on the bed sobbing.
“Oh dear. What happened?” Ann sat down and held and rocked Tara.
“She…left…” Tara cried and sniffled.
“Why?” Ann asked.
Tara slowed down her crying. She took in a shuttering breath, “She l-left b-because I made her m-mad.” Tara wiped the tears away. “I asked h-her to t-tell me she l-loved me but she c-couldn’t.” Tara’s tears started falling again and she leaned against the woman.
“She couldn’t or wouldn’t Tara?”
Tara pulled back and looked at Ann. “Wh-what? No. She t-told me she h-has strong feelings for m-me and…and before she l-left she told me I w-was the only woman she has ever f-fallen in love with.”
“It could have been a last minute desperation. Honestly I think there is something more to it.” Ann looked into Tara’s eyes.
“Wh-what?”
“I think she was jealous because of you.” Ann said.
“M-me?” Tara asked.
“It’s because of your money. Money will make people do strange things. I think at first she befriended you initially, but when she found out about you coming into a lot of money she wanted you to think that she had fallen for you.” Ann stroked Tara’s hair.
“N-no. It wasn’t l-like that. She…we were g-getting closer before we f-found the will.” Tara said defending the events.
“Well, whatever the case may be between you two, she’s gone and we have to be at the lawyers at 12:30. There are papers to sign and other legal matters.” Ann stood up and walked to the door. “You have a good few hours to get ready. I’ll be down stairs waiting.”
“D-don’t you even c-care that I j-just broke up with my g-g-girlfriend?” Tara’s tears started again.
“Yes sweet heart, I know that money can’t take away all the years of pain and the pain you’re feeling right now, but it’s a good way to start you on you’re feet and put things normal for once in your life. I just want you to get what you deserve.” Ann sighed. “Tara, you’ve got your heart broken, but it will mend. I ought to know.” Ann stared at the floor and sniffed. “I’m going down stairs now. Just come down when you get ready.” Ann said with a shaky voice.
Tara felt the guilt building inside. She knew the loss of her mother was devastating to her but she realized that Ann hurt just as much or more. Tara sighed and laid down.
_______________________________________________________________________
Willow walked in her motel room. She flung her gym bag on the bed. It bounced off the mattress and fell in the floor. She rolled her eyes, growled and picked it up. She placed her laptop case on the nightstand. She pulled her cell phone out of her pocket and dialed a number.
“Giles it’s me.”
“Willow, you sound a little distressed. Has something happened?”
“Something like that!” Her voice full of hurt and anger.
“Would you care to explain?” Giles asked.
Willow hooked all the connections up. She turned her computer on and sat down on the bed.
“Well, first Tara got pissed, I got pissed and now I’m staying in some crappy motel room. How’s that for explaining?”
“I am sorry Willow. Is there anything I can do?”
“Yeah! Find out all you can on Ann Fields. Something about that fucking bitch gives me belly rumblins.”
“Has something transpired that needs to be brought to my attention Willow?”
“Not yet, but I have a feeling that something isn’t right there. I’ve got to get Tara out of there, now.”
Willow was trying to emphasize the urgency of the situation.
“I will do my best dear. It should not take long. Is there a facsimile machine at the motel you are saying?”
Willow pulled a piece of paper from her pocket, “Yeah. The number is 515-456-0987.”
“Alright. Willow do take my advice and relax. You will not be able to complete the task at hand if you remain in this emotional state.”
“I know that!” She took in a calming breath. “I’m sorry Giles. I’m still pissed off.”
“Understandable. Take care and I will fax my results within the hour.”
“Thanks Giles.” Willow flipped her phone shut.
She laid on the bed pulling her laptop on her legs. She started clicking her mouse and typing. As if they had a mind of their own, her eyes were shedding tears. She wiped them away. Crying started wracking her body and then it became uncontrollable.
_________________________________________________________________________
Tara sat in the car with her head laid against the window. All that was on her mind was Willow.
“Tara honey, try to cheer up a little. A broken heart mends with time. Here, we’ll play some music.” Ann reached forward and turned the radio on.
Here’s a dedication for all those broken hearts out there.
Greeday, Boulevard of Broken Dreams.
I walk a lonely road
The only one that I have ever known
Don't know where it goes
But it's home to me and I walk alone
I walk this empty street
On the boulevard of broken dreams
Where the city sleeps
And I'm the only one and I walk alone
I walk alone. I walk alone. I walk alone. I walk alone
Tara sat there and rolled and closed her eyes.
My shadow's the only one that walks beside me
My shallow heart's the only thing that's beating
Sometimes I wish someone out there will find me
‘Til then I walk…
Tara turned the radio off and sighed.
“Oh Tara, I’m sorry.”
“N-no that’s alright.” Tears fell from her face and stained her shirt.
Tara and Ann entered the lawyers office. Ann walked up to the receptionist. “Yes Ann Fields and Tara Maclay here to see Ron DeVit.
The receptionist looked at her appointment book, “Alright. I’ll let him know you’re here. Please take a seat it will only be a few minutes.
Tara sat there wringing her hands together, looking around at the various art work hung on the wall.
Ann patted Tara on the leg, “Nervous dear?”
Tara replied by shaking her head.
“Miss Maclay, Ms. Fields, Mr. DeVit will see you now.” The receptionist stood in the door way.
“Ready?” Ann asked Tara and stood up.
Tara’s heart raced wildly. This was the moment of all moments for her, but she wanted Willow there with her. She stood up and followed Ann down the hall.
“Miss Maclay, Ms. Fields, I’m happy to see you both. Please take a seat.” The chubby short fellow said as he took his seat. “Alright, let’s see what we have here.” He pulled out a file from his desk drawer. “It seems as if Miss Maclay has come into quite a fortune. Alright, before we can go through all the legalities, I will need verification of Tara’s age.”
Ann reached in her purse and handed him a folded piece of paper.
He opened it and seemed to examine every word. “Seems in order. I suppose you cannot go against a birth certificate, but Tara will not officially be eighteen until Sunday. Well we’ll get all the paper work finalized today that way Monday morning you can go to the bank and do what ever you see fit with your money.” He looked to Ann. “Ms. Fields, I will need proof of who you are.”
Ann reached in her purse again and handed him her driver’s license and social security card.
“O.K. All seems to be correct. Now Tara, I would like to tell you that your mother was a very smart woman. She knew what she was doing when it came to financial security. Unfortunately, she passed away too soon. I found your mother a very lovely lady.”
“Thank y-you.” Tara replied.
“Well, here you are with an exciting revelation of you’re life. With the deposit of two million dollars in Certificate of Deposits, at 5.11% monthly interest, the ending balance equals…” Mr. DeVit punched in the numbers on his calculator. “You have $3,330,299.55 deposited at the First Financial Bank in La Grande. Now it you need to present these papers to the bank president. It is a great financial institution, so you will be able to withdrawal the entire amount, if you wish to do so, without any complications or difficulty.”
“My f-father can’t t-touch any part of the m-money can he?” Tara asked. The news of the money was exciting but she couldn’t wallow in her glory without Willow.
“Not one red cent. According to my records, your mother was never married to Mr. Maclay. In fact Tara, I don’t know if you are aware of this, James Maclay isn’t your real father. Your biological father passed away before you were born.”
Tara sat there with her mouth hung wide open. She couldn’t say a word.
Ann patted her on the knee. Tara looked and the woman nodded her head in conformation.
“Your mother Jackie,” The lawyer continued, “signed the will with her birth name. Didn’t you look at the will where her signature is?”
Tara shook her head. She was in total shock trying to process all the information she was being told.
The lawyer flipped the document to the last page and handed it to Tara. The name at the end was signed Jacquelyn Yeary. Tara handed the will back to the man.
He cleared his throat. “Getting back to the matter at hand, Tara I will need your signature on these forms.” He pointed to the places Tara needed to sign. “And Ms. Fields, if you would?” He handed the pen over to Ann. She signed at the appropriate place.
“That’s all we need. Here’s your copy. Like I said, take these to the president of the bank and they shouldn’t have any problems. In fact, I will call them after you leave to let them know you will arrive sometime Monday.”
Ann stood up out of her chair. “I’ll go with her and make sure that Tara gets everything in order.”
“Actually Ms. Fields, it’s not necessary for you to go with Tara unless she wants you there.” Mr. DeVit looked at Tara who still sat there in shock. “Tara, it was a pleasure to meet you. I hope you have fun with you’re new life.”
Tara shot her head up and stared the man down. “What d-did you say?”
The man look puzzled, “I said that I hope nothing more but happiness for you.”
The haunting words of Willow were still fresh in her mind. She dropped her head. “Thank you.” Tara said and walked out of his office.
“Ms. Fields, you have a pleasant day.” The man placed papers in the file.
Ann smiled at him and followed after Tara.
_________________________________________________________________________
A call came through to Willow’s motel room. She had fallen into a light sleep.
Willow picked up the phone, “Yes.”
“Miss Rosenberg, you have some papers that had just come through the fax machine. Would you like for me to bring them to your room?”
“No. I’ll be down in a minute. Thanks.” Willow hung up the phone and sprung from the bed. She combed her fingers through her hair and walked out the door.
She walked into the office over to the receptionist. The woman handed Willow the papers. She scanned through them, “Oh my god!”
Without saying another word, Willow ran out of the office back to her room.
_______________________________________________________________________
Ann unlocked the door to her house. Tara exhausted headed upstairs.
“Tara dear. Can you come with me?” Ann walked further in the house.
“I want to show you something.” Ann sat down in her chair in the living room.
Tara plopped down on the couch.
Ann reached in a drawer from the end table. She brought out a book and handed it to Tara.
“What’s this?” Tara asked looking at the cover.
“That happens to be you’re mother’s diary.”
“Ann, why d-didn’t you tell me about d-da…James?” Tara asked.
“Actually Tara, before today I thought you knew. Heck, I thought you were dead until you called me yesterday. I know your mind is on a roller coaster ride, but I have the right thing you need. Come outside.” Ann got up from her chair and walked out the back door.
Tara followed.
“Here it is.” Ann pointed out a jacuzzi.
“Wow!” Tara exclaimed.
“Now I’m sure this will help you relax. I think there is a bathing suit upstairs in the bottom drawer of the dresser in your room. Why don’t you go put it on and you can read the diary? I’ll make some tea and you can stay out here as long as you want.”
Tara nodded her head and dashed up the stairs.
__________________________________________________________________________
Willow dialed her cell phone.
“Giles! What the hell is this?” Willow sat on the bed drumming her fingers on the nightstand. She picked up her gun and inspected it.
“Willow. I merely obtained the information you requested. Is there a problem?”
“No. No problem. I just wasn’t expecting…”
“Yes it is quite shocking.” Giles interupted.
“Well duh! Alright, any news on James?”
“As my contacts have informed me, he has been seen about Baker City.”
“Damn it! Giles I have to move now!” Willow screamed.
“Willow do calm yourself.” The worried tone was evident from the man. “There happens to be the issue of time. You cannot make a move as of yet.”
“You honestly think I can just sit here while the woman I love is in danger.” Willow said but regretted pouring her heart out to Giles before Tara.
Giles cleared his throat, “Willow, as your authoritative figure I forbid you to, as you would say, act like a chicken with its head cut off. You will remain in your motel room until Sunday. And then you will follow procedure. Is that understood!” Giles said demanding.
Willow sighed. “Yes. I understand, but I want you to know that I’ll be damned if I like it.”
Giles let out a shout laugh, “Willow I promise you that Tara is not in any immediate danger.”
“Alright. I’ll take your word for it, but I’m holding you to it as well.” Willow said.
“Very well then. I will let you retire for the evening. Take care my dear.”
“I will. Bye Giles.” Willow flipped her phone shut.
She laid on her bed shifting one leg over the other. Willow got off the bed and headed out the door.
_________________________________________________________________________
Tara sat in the jacuzzi letting the bubbles massage her entire body. She held the diary in her hands and began to read.
Today I found out I am pregnant. I never thought it would be possible.
William and I have been trying for so long we practically had given up.
If the baby is a girl, I will name her Tara and if a boy, Donald.
Tara smiled. She flipped to the middle of the diary.
We buried my beloved William today. How could this have happened?
He was such a healthy man. His friend James Maclay was very comforting
to me. He was with William when he died. I recently found out that I am going
to have a baby girl. I regret so much that William will not be able to know his
daughter.
Tara eyes widened. She thumbed through a couple of pages.
Tara was born today. I felt it only right to give her James’ last name.
He has been there through the biggest part of my pregnancy and during
the delivery. Actually James insisted on it. He always wanted a daughter.
I know William would have wanted it that way.
“What the… Tara flipped to the last entries.
“Tara sweetheart, here’s some tea for you.” Ann laid the glass on the edge. She looked over Tara’s shoulder to see where she was at in her reading. Ann smiled and walked back in the house.
Tara picked up her glass and took a big drink. She continued to read.
How could I have done this? I want to get out of this. I have to leave.
James has gotten so out of control. I found out last week that I was pregnant
for the second time. I told James hoping that would make a difference.
I did however wait to tell him. I brought a sonogram picture to him and he
was worse than I have ever seen him. He beat me and kicked me. I lost my
child, but I still have Tara. We are leaving soon. I just have to get my money
together and get out of here.
Tara drunk down the rest of her tea. She hadn’t noticed the tears streaming down her face. She turned to the last page in her mother’s diary.
My friend and now lover, Ann has been great through out all of this.
She has helped me pack my and Tara’s things. Yesterday, she
and I went to the lawyers. I took Ann’s advice and had a will drawn
up. I left everything to Tara. James will never see any of it.
Tara’s mouth hung open. She stood up in the water, but her legs went weak. She held on to the sides and fell out onto the ground. The diary fell a few feet from her. Ann walked outside and saw the distressed girl.
“Sweetie, are you alright?” Ann helped Tara to her feet.
“I’m just so…t-tired.” Tara hung on to the woman.
“I suppose that little soak wore you out. You come on inside and I’ll put you to bed.” Ann helped Tara upstairs.
Tara leaned up against the wall of the room while Ann retrieved a night gown out of a drawer. Tara took the bathing suit off and slipped into the gown. Normally she would have been to embarrassed to undress in front of anyone, but she felt too light headed to care.
Ann helped Tara to the bed and tucked her in. “Now, I’ll be right back. I think you need some hot tea. Try to stay awake until I get back.”
Tara nodded her head and watched Ann walk out the door.
_________________________________________________________________________
Willow walked into a local pub. She looked around at the patrons that sat around. Some looked rough in appearance. She walked up to the bartender. She pulled out a paper with James’ picture on it. One of the things that Giles included in his fax.
“Have you seen this guy around?” Willow pointed to the picture.
The bartender picked it up, looked at it and placed it down in front of Willow. “Maybe. I dunno, cutie. You might be able to refresh my memory.”
Willow reached in her back pocket for her wallet. She opened it, laid it down on the counter and pulled out a twenty dollar bill. She slid it over to the man and pointed at the picture again.
“Now, have you seen this man around?”
The bartender’s eyes widened, “Now look. I’ve seen him, but I don’t want any trouble.”
_________________________________________________________________________
Ann walked in Tara’s room. She sat down on the edge of the bed. She placed a cup of tea on the night stand. Tara laid there with her eyes barely opened.
Ann touched Tara’s forehead. “Oh dear. I think you’re running a fever. It’s no wonder with all the worry you’ve been putting yourself through.” Ann reached in her pocket and pulled out a bottle of pills. “Here’s some Tylenol.” She put the pills in Tara’s mouth and picked up the cup. Tara took the cup and washed the pills down. She handed the cup back to Ann and laid her head back on the pillow.
“Now Tara, you need to drink all of this. You need to take in as many fluids as possible.” Ann helped Tara sit back up. Tara sipped the warm liquid until the cup was empty.
“That’s my girl. Now, you try to get some sleep and I’ll be back later with some soup.” Ann kissed Tara on the cheek.
“I…need…t-to talk about…what I r-read in mom’s diary. I…d-don’t understand. ”
“You need to rest child. I’ll check on you soon.” Ann walked out of the room
Tara laid her head down on the pillow. The room was spinning around. Tara gripped the sheets. She closed her eyes hoping her fever would subside soon.
Tara felt her body relax into a state of unconsciousness.
_________________________________________________________________________
Willow returned to her motel room. She stayed at the bar for hours and had a few drinks to pass the time waiting to see if James would walk in, but he never showed.
Willow gathered some night clothes and headed to the bathroom for a shower.
_________________________________________________________________________
“Tara come on sweetie wake up for me.”
“Willow?” Tara asked. It was so dark in the room she couldn’t make out the figure in front of her.
Tara squinted her eyes as the lamp on the nightstand came on.
“No honey. It’s just me. I brought you some soup and some more tea.”
Ann helped Tara sit up in the bed.
“What t-time is it?” Tara asked in a rough voice.
“It’s close to eleven. I tried to wake you earlier but you were sleeping so well, I just decided to leave you be.”
Ann pulled a thermometer out of her robe pocket. “Here put this in your mouth.”
Tara complied. Within seconds it beeped. Ann pulled it out of Tara’s mouth.
“You still have a fever. I brought you some more Tylenol.”
Tara reached her hand out. “Let me see.”
Ann put the thermometer in her pocket and brought out a bottle. “Take these.” She handed Tara two pills. She put them in her mouth and swallowed them down with her tea.
“Now you eat your soup and I’ll be back in a few.” Ann smiled at Tara and walked out of the room.
Tara picked up her soup and began to eat. She heard Ann’s voice echoing through the walls.
Her heart skipped a beat hoping that Willow had returned. Tara got out of the bed. She stumbled about but managed to get to the door.
She cracked it open so she could hear what was being said.
“Yes I know. Listen to me, I am doing the best I can. I will call you back soon. Bye.”
Tara opened the door and walked out into the hallway. She yelped when she was face to face with the woman.
“What are you doing out of bed?” Ann asked almost demanding an answer.
Tara smiled surprised by the abrupt manner, “I was g-going to the r-restroom. Too m-much tea.”
“Do you need me to go with you?” Ann’s toned softened down to normal.
“No. I think I r-remember how to pee.” Tara giggled and carefully shuffled across the hall.
Tara walked across the hallway back to her room. Ann was standing there fluffing the pillows and straightening out the blankets.
“Tara, come lay back down and finish your soup and tea.”
Tara settled down in the bed, “Ann, I r-really feel better.” Tara crawled deeper under the covers.
“Nonsense child.” Ann scolded, “I told you that you are running a fever. Now I want you to finish your food!”
Tara looked puzzled. She sighed and took the bowl. She found it more difficult to eat with it being cold, but finished it off. Tara handed the bowl to Ann.
“That’s it. Now your tea.” Ann stood there waiting.
Tara finished and handed the cup over. Her eyes became more unfocused. She started sweating. “I…I don’t f-feel…” Tara was out again.
Ann smiled and walked out of the room.
**********************
CHAPTER 8
“Happy Birthday Tara!” Ann walked into the room holding a cupcake with a lit candle stuck in it.
Tara stretched and smiled, “Are you g-going to say that tomorrow on m-my real birthday?”
“Oh you poor thing, you don’t remember.” Ann put the plate on the nightstand.
“Remember what?” Tara asked puzzled. She sat up in the bed.
“Tara you have been so sick. You practically slept all day yesterday and last night. The only time you were up was when you had to go to the bathroom and I had to feed you. I called the doctor the other night and told him you were sick. He came by yesterday and said you had the flu and it was the worst case he had ever seen. I took care of you the whole time.”
Tara was surprised but relieved to hear that someone was there for her. She reached out her arms, “Thank you.”
Ann bent down and hugged the blonde, “You’re welcome my dear. Now blow out your candle.” Ann picked up the plate.
Tara took in a deep breath and blew the candle out.
“There. Did you make a wish?” Ann said with not much expression on her face.
“No.” Tara sighed. “I think I’m g-going to take a bath.” Tara stood up and grabbed the wall to keep from falling.
“Are you sure?” Ann helped Tara steady her balance.
Tara nodded and stood upright.
“Well, let me help you to the bathroom and then I’m going to have to leave or I’ll be late.” Ann walked Tara to the bathroom door.
“Late f-for what?”
“Sweetie, it’s Sunday and I go to church. Now don’t you do too much around here. There is some tea in the refrigerator. I want you to drink as much today as you can. I’ll be back home around three o’clock. We’re having a dinner. I’ll bring you some food.” Ann smiled and let go of her hold on Tara.
“Thank you. You’re an a-angel.” Tara waved goodbye and went into the bathroom.
Tara filled the bathtub. She looked at herself in the mirror. Her eyes were terribly bloodshot and her color was pale.
She carefully slipped into the tub. She laid her head back on the wall and relaxed.
Tara wrapped a towel around her wet hair and her body. She walked out of the bathroom and opened her bedroom door.
“Tara!”
Tara screamed and backed out of the room.
Willow stood up from the bed and walked over to the blonde.
“Willow? What are you d-doing here?” Tara walked back in.
Willow walked closer. “Oh my god! What the hell did she do to you?” Willow noticed the appearance of her love.
“Who are y-you talking about?” Tara put her hands on her hips.
“Ann! What the hell did she do? You look awful.” Willow held out her hand trying to caress Tara’s cheek.
“Oh gee Will. Y-you look f-fucking great yourself.” Tara said sarcastically and walked around the concerned redhead.
“Tara. I didn’t mean it like that. To me you will always be beautiful. But your eyes are shot and you look tired.”
“For your information I’ve been s-sick. The only thing Ann h-has done was take care of me and stayed w-with me the entire time, which is m-more than I c-can say for you.”
“I’m sorry I left. I regretted it since I walked out the door.” Willow tried again to approach Tara.
Willow reached her hand out, but Tara leaned back. Willow dropped her hand and sighed.
“What d-do you want Willow?”
“I came to tell you that you’re in danger. We have to get you out of here now.” Willow’s voice was serious.
Tara stared into those green eyes. She almost ran into Willow’s arms, but she refrained. She turned around and looked out the window, “Willow, I’m in n-no danger. So j-just go.” Tears welled up in her eyes.
“Tara you have to listen to me.” Willow pleaded.
“I said go!” Tara demanded but refused to look around.
Willow picked up the lamp on the nightstand and smashed it against the wall on the other side of the bed.
Tara jerked her body around.
“Listen to me! You may be pissed and well I don’t blame you because I’m pissed off at myself too! But goddamn it, I am not going to let you get hurt!”
“Ha! Why the hell should you care?! You’re just after my money!” Tara screamed at the top of her lungs.
“What?! I don’t give a fuck about your money!”
“Then t-tell me why y-you are here.” Tara crossed her arms.
Willow calmed herself. “I told you, you need to get out. You have no idea what you’re up against here.” She took in a deep breath. “I want you to look at these.” Willow reached in her back pocket and handed Tara a folded piece of paper.
Tara took the paper, “What’s this?”
“Just open it, please.”
Tara sighed. She opened the paper and read. “I d-don’t get it. What is this?”
“It’s a copy of all of the calls coming and going out of this house.” Willow walked closer. She pointed out numerous items. “I believe this number is the one that goes to you’re house in Sunnydale?”
Tara dropped the paper on the floor. Willow bent down and picked it up.
“Tara. I’m sorry. I wish I could…”
“Where d-did you get this?” Tara couldn’t believe what was given to her.
“I…uh…I found it on the internet.” Willow shifted nervously.
“You found it on the c-computer?” Tara asked unconvinced.
“Well yeah. I hate to say this but I’m a major computer nerd. Can’t believe such a hot mamma yamma is such a spaz?” Willow smiled.
Tara shook her head, closed her eyes and smiled. “Willow, you could have m-made this up.”
Willow folded the paper and slipped it back in her pocket. “Tara I swear to you that I didn’t make this up.”
Tara walked over to the bed and plopped down dishearten. Willow walked over and knelt down in front of her and held Tara’s hand.
“Baby, I have something else to show you.” Willow pulled out another folded piece of paper and handed it over.
Tara closed her eyes and sighed. She unfolded the paper to read a print out of a newspaper article.
Local police investigated the death of Jacquelyn Yeary. Her apparent
cause of death was, as suspected, suicide. She was found by her fiancé
James Maclay.
Mr. Maclay stated that he came home from work and found her hanging
from the top of the staircase.
“I am just relieved that my daughter wasn’t home to find her mother like
that.”
According to James, his daughter was at their neighbor Ann Fields’ house
at the time of the incident. Ms. Fields was questioned by the police and she
stated that she personally knew the victim.
“Jackie has been very depressed lately. She left her daughter with me saying
she was going to the store. I never suspected this would happen.”
Police say there was no indication of foul play.
“This was a clear case of suicide.” Stated Chief of Police Herbert Canage.
Tara placed the paper on the bed.
“There’s one more thing.” Willow handed Tara the last paper.
“Do I r-really want to know?” Tara looked at the paper.
“No. No! NO! NO! I…this…NO!” Tara screamed.
Willow knew this would happen. She sat on the bed beside of Tara and held her tight while she sobbed.
“Tara baby, we have to leave.” Willow said.
Tara’s cries abruptly stopped. She sat up and stared at Willow. “I’m not leaving.” She said plainly.
“What? No, Tara. We have to go.” Willow said confused.
“They h-have to pay. I…I don’t know how but they will pay.” Tara said through clenched teeth.
“Baby, please.” Willow begged.
Tara stood up, “You d-don’t have to stay.”
“Do you honestly think that I am going to leave, knowing that you are here, with them? I don’t think so.”
“You d-did before.” Tara said in a low tone.
Willow sighed, “I’m sorry I left. It’s just…damn it.”
Tara faced the redhead, “What?”
Willow stood and reached for Tara’s hand happy that she didn’t pull away. “I want you to know that I’m sorry for leaving and for saying everything I did.”
Tara dropped her head down. “I thought s-so.”
“Huh?” Willow thought back to the last conversation between the two.
“Tara. I said things that I didn’t mean. People do that a lot when they are mad and I want you to know that I don’t think you are immature. You are the bravest woman I know. And note that I said woman. And I want you to know that I…I love you. God, I have loved you ever since I first saw you.”
Tara looked into those soulful green eyes, “What?” She couldn’t believe what she heard. She had wanted to hear those words for so long.
“I said I love you. I love you Tara Maclay.” Willow was relieved that she said the words she had held back for so long.
“I love you too, Willow. Are y-you sure?” Tara’s doubt set in.
“I told you before baby, I don’t say things I don’t mean. I…love…you!” Willow caressed the blonde’s cheek. “I feel horrible about everything I put you through and I’m going to make it up to you, starting right now.”
“Right now?” Tara’s eyes welled up with tears and her heart filled with love.
Willow beamed a smile at the woman. She nodded her head letting Tara know that she meant it.
Both leaned in for a long needed kiss.
Willow pulled back, “Oh god Tara. I want you. I need you.”
“You have me.” Tara moved in. She put her hand behind Willow’s head, pushing her tongue in the moaning redhead’s mouth.
Willow wrapped her hands around Tara’s waist, pulling her closer. Willow’s hand roamed up Tara’s back and the other massaged her ass.
Tara moaned, “Mmmm. Oh Willow.” She sucked on Willow’s lips, moving to her cheek then to her ear, sucking on the tender lobe.
Willow gulped. “Tara…baby.”
“Hmmm.” Tara moved her mouth down and sucked on Willow’s pulse point.
Willow pulled back. Tara looked in those emerald green eyes. Willow stared in the sea blue ones. She reached up and pulled the towel off Tara’s head letting her wet dark blonde hair flow down to her shoulders. Willow gently combed her hand through, twisting the ends slightly. She kissed the soft shoulders and sucked slightly. Tara moved her head back wanting Willow to kiss her sensitive neck. Willow complied kissing from one side to the other.
“Willow?” Tara breathed out. She felt her legs getting weak. “Lay…ahh…down.”
Willow moved them over to the bed. “This must go.” She took her finger and traced down the crevice between the blonde’s breasts. Willow looked into Tara’s eyes and without warning, Tara felt the towel drop from her body. She shuttered feeling the coolness hit her back.
“Willow, I love you.” Tara said and moved her hands under Willow’s shirt removing it. She stood there in awe looking at her beauty in a black lace bra. Tara gently ran her finger over the freckles down between Willow’s breasts back up to her neck. She stopped at one in particular and placed her hot mouth there and sucked lightly. She smiled when she felt goose bumps rise under her lips. Tara reached behind Willow and unfastened her bra. She raised her head and Willow let out a whimper from the lost contact. Tara kissed Willow’s lips which brought out a deep moan. Tara’s hands roamed up Willow’s shoulders, moving the straps down along her arms. She adverted her eyes from the beautiful red lips down and watched her hands remove the garment.
“Oh baby.” Tara kissed Willow’s lips, neck and moved to one breast. She took her tongue and circled the nipple and then took the erect peak in her mouth. Willow smiled and sighed. She arched her back and Tara sucked in more. Tara moved her hands down Willow’s sides and around the waist band of her jeans. With one finger she slipped the button out of the hole. Willow’s eyes widened at her lovers skilled movements.
“Tara.” Willow breathed out. “Tara sweetie.”
Tara rose up and smiled. “Yes?” Her hands gently pulled the zipper down. She felt the brim of Willow’s panties and stroked the front of the tight muscular stomach.
“I...uh…think we should…”
“Lie down?” Tara finished with a desirable growl.
“Uh huh.” Willow squeaked out.
Tara sat down on the bed and pulled Willow close. She took her head and massaged her face on the beautiful breasts that were in front of her. Willow ran her hand through Tara’s hair enjoying the feel and relishing in the fact that she was going to make love to her goddess, without her nagging voice telling her otherwise. All she heard was
Tara kissed each of Willow’s breasts and moved down her stomach.
“Oh god Tara.”
Tara licked around the navel and traveled her tongue down and barely touched the fabric of Willow’s panties and slowly made her way up leaving a glossy wet trail. She felt her love’s stomach rise up and down rapidly. She looked up and Willow stood there with her head thrown back, her mouth open and a smile of ecstasy on her face.
Tara moved her hand up to Willow’s arm. Willow looked down and knew what Tara wanted.
Willow maneuvered around and laid down on the bed. Tara laid on her side, caressing Willow’s breast with her hands.
Willow sat up slightly. She traced Tara’s body with her eyes. The heat inside her core flared more when she saw the soft honey colored curls. Willow closed her eyes and looked into the now deep blue eyes, “Baby you are gorgeous. Your skin is so soft.” Willow stroked her hand down and up Tara’s body. She stopped when she came across a wide scar on Tara’s shoulder. Her smile instantly left. “Should I even ask how you got this?”
Tara head dropped and her hair covered her face. Willow gently tucked Tara’s hair behind her ear and stroked her cheek making Tara stare into her eyes.
“Let me show you what real love is. I want you to know how much I do love you.” Willow cupped Tara’s face and kissed her gently.
Tears streamed down Tara’s face. She quietly sobbed.
Willow pulled back and smiled. “I love you Tara.” She wiped the tears from the blonde’s face.
“I love you Willow.” Tara said in a strained voice.
Willow licked her lips as she saw Tara lean in. The kiss started slow, tasting and enjoying the feel of each other’s lips. As the kiss became more passionate, Willow caressed under Tara’s breast hearing a slight moan. Tara stood up abruptly.
“What’s wrong?” Willow asked slightly surprised by the interruption.
Tara reached down and slowly removed Willow’s shoes one by one then the socks. She tugged at the waist band of Willow’s jeans. “These have to go.” She said passionately.
Willow raised her hips off the bed as Tara pulled the denim off the white creamy legs. She looked up and down the wanting redhead’s body and stopped when she looked at the black lace panties that matched the bra. “And these have to go too.” Tara rubbed her hands up Willow’s thighs. She stopped at the crotch and rubbed slightly. Willow hissed at the touch. The pool of wetness inside of Tara trickled down her leg. She slipped the panties off Willow’s legs and flung them over her shoulder getting a chuckle from her love.
Tara’s mouth watered as she gazed at the wiry copper curls.
“C’mere.” Willow held out her arms.
Tara moved seductively over Willow, straddling her hips.
Willow watched and smiled. When Tara positioned herself, Willow placed her hands on the blonde’s hips. Tara lowered herself down. Their breast came together eliciting moans from them both. Their lips touched with all the passion and love that could be given in one kiss. Willow rubbed up and down Tara’s back and enveloped her in a hug.
Tara broke the kiss and looked into Willow’s eyes. “I love you.”
With her strength, Willow rolled them both over, “I love you baby.” She took Tara’s neck in her mouth and sucked gently.
Tara rocked her hips up and down slightly. She could feel her wetness dripping on the bed.
Willow moved her hand down and caressed Tara’s breast, twisting the nipple hearing Tara’s beautiful sounds of pleasure.
Tara bucked her hips higher. “Willow…in…ins…”
Willow knew instantly. She moved slightly to the side and slid her hand down to Tara’s soft curls. She cupped her hand and let her palm rest on the hair. Willow raised her head and smiled at the blonde. She lowered her head over one of Tara’s breast and at the same time she took the nipple in her mouth, she gently pushed one of her fingers inside her lover’s core.
“Mmmaaaaahhhhhh!” Tara sounded out. She threw her hips up even higher making Willow’s finger enter deeper.
Willow let go of Tara’s nipple, kissing and sucking her way down. Tara’s moans became louder as Willow descended. Willow licked the inside of Tara’s thigh as she slowly pushed and pulled her finger in and out of the desirable blonde. She inhaled the wanting scent that was inches from her face.
Willow pulled her finger out and looked up at Tara.
Tara looked down. “Oh baby, please don’t stop.” She breathed out.
Willow smiled and lowered her head. She took her finger and traced up and down from the bottom of the swollen flesh to the entrance of Tara’s core. She blew on the clit making the blonde shiver. Willow turned her hand around. She quickly took the nub in her mouth and pushed two fingers inside.
Tara screamed out in pleasure at the redhead’s movements. She grabbed the back of Willow’s head urging her on as her other clinched the sheets, pulling them off the corner.
Willow was in total ecstasy, feeling her lover writhing underneath her touch and tasting the juices that constantly flowed out. Willow turned her fingers upwards massaging the g-spot. Tara’s movements were uncontrollable. Willow felt the strong constriction around her fingers. Tara gasped in air.
Willow knew the time was right. “I love you Tara.” She removed her fingers and replaced them with her tongue. She curled her tongue and pushed it in as hard as she could, tasting the change inside.
“WILLLOOOOWWW!” Tara screamed out while clenching her legs around Willow’s head.
Willow moaned as she felt the warm liquid rush in her mouth. She removed her tongue and flicked it across Tara’s clit. “Oh yes, yes YESSSS!!!” Tara yelled as another orgasm ripped through her.
Willow licked all the juices that flowed out. She looked up at her love. “You taste so good Tara.”
Tara cupped Willow’s face. “Come up here with me.”
Willow crawled her way up Tara’s body and bent down to kiss her. Tara’s tongue sought dominance over Willow’s. She moaned when she tasted herself.
Tara gently pushed Willow on her back. She rose up and stared into dark green eyes. “I want you so bad.” She growled.
“Then take what’s yours.” Willow said.
Tara stroked Willow’s cheek then up through her hair. She moved her hand down Willow’s neck, shoulders and stopped to massage her breast.
Willow laid there letting Tara take the lead. She watched her beauty’s face. She thought.
“I love you too Willow.” Tara said.
“How did you do that?” Willow asked surprised.
“Do what?” Tara asked never stopping her hands.
“You read my mind. I was just thinking ‘I love you Tara’ and then you said ‘I love you too Willow’ so obviously you can read minds and that is so cool. I thought that…”
Tara placed her finger on Willow’s lips, “Doofuss, I c-can’t read minds. I read it in your eyes.” Tara blushed and smiled.
“Well duh!” Willow rolled her eyes and giggled then moaned when Tara gently twisted her nipple.
Tara kissed down Willow’s neck and to her breast. She gently took the hardened peak in her mouth. She lightly sucked while her hand moved down.
“Yessss Tara.” Willow hissed out. She closed her eyes.
Tara licked the place under the pert breast. She looked up at Willow and the look on the redhead’s face sent a new heat through her. Her hand reached the curls of red hair. She took her fingers and ran them through causing a new sound to emerge from her love.
Tara kissed and nipped her way down to where her hand laid. She ran her face through the soft hair and took in the smell of Willow’s sex. Her finger came across a hard piece of flesh. She took her finger and circled around it and ran her tongue across it at the same time.
“Oh my god!” Willow’s eyes popped open as she called out, bucking her hips up off the mattress.
Tara continued to circle the clit with her tongue. She slipped two fingers inside Willow’s core causing the untamed redhead to sit straight up and flop back on the bed. She grabbed Tara’s hair. With her other hand she reached up to the headboard. She grabbed one of the bars that were placed in there.
Tara flicked her tongue and then long licks across the nub. When she felt Willow grab her hair, she sucked in the flesh while pumping her fingers in and out.
“Tara, TARA! TAARRAAAA!” Willow screamed out as the explosion rushed through her. She pulled one of the bars out of the headboard and threw it across the room causing it to stick in the wall.
Tara crawled up Willow’s body without removing her fingers. She kissed her lover passionately. She circled Willow’s clit with her thumb and pushed her fingers on the g-spot.
Willow bucked her hips almost throwing Tara off her. “TAARRAAAA!” Willow screamed out again around Tara’s mouth. Tara gently moved her fingers in and out riding out her lover’s climax.
Tara pulled her fingers out and laid her hand across Willow’s heart, feeling the racing heartbeat and listening to the panting slow.
Willow smiled and kissed Tara on the forehead. “I love you baby.”
Tara’s own breathing was returning to normal. “I love you too.”
Willow started laughing. Tara looked up. “What?” She smiled, loving the sound of the fit of giggles.
“I made a mess.” Willow looked up at the headboard and then at the wall.
“Yeah you did.” Tara started laughing herself.
“Let’s see how much more damage I can do.” Willow looked at Tara and wiggled her eyebrows.
“Oooo, I like that idea.” Tara whispered in Willow’s hear causing her to shiver.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willow and Tara spent hours making love and confessing their feelings for one another.
Tara held Willow, who was resting her head on the blonde’s shoulder.
“Mmmm, this is nice.” Willow said as she snuggled closer.
“Umm Humm.” Tara replied running her fingers up and down Willow’s arm.
Willow buried her face down on Tara’s chest and growled.
“What’s wrong?” Tara asked.
“Call of nature always hits at the most inopportune times and here I was sooo comfortable.” Willow pouted.
“Aww, poor baby.” Tara chuckled.
Willow propped herself up and gave the blonde a quick kiss on the lips. “Be right back.”
Willow stood and walked towards the door. She turned around when she heard whistling and clapping.
“Whoo Hoo!” Tara exclaimed, enjoying the beauty in front of her.
Willow smiled, turned back around and wiggled her butt as she walked out the door.
Tara laughed as she settled herself on the pillows. Tara sighed and closed her eyes.
Tara heard a door open then close. “Tara! I’m back home!” Ann called from downstairs.
Tara’s eyes widened. She shot straight up. She scurried around throwing clothes on and kicking Willow’s under the bed.
Tara rushed to the door and jerked it open. Ann stood there with a shocked expression.
“Tara! You scared me half to death.” The woman put her hand on her chest.
“Oh…heh…s-sorry.” Tara stood there shifting from one foot to the other, trying to guard any view that Ann might have inside the room.
“Are you alright?” Ann asked curiously. She stood on her toes, looking over Tara’s shoulder.
“Uh huh. Fine. B-better than f-fine.” A sheen of sweat formed on the blonde’s brow.
“Tara, what are you hiding?” Ann asked as she crossed her arms over her chest and raised her brow.
Tara took an audible gulp. “I-I w-was redecorating and I…uh…w-wanted to s-surprise you.” Tara smiled as sweetly as she could. Her heart was pounding so hard she could feel it in her head.
Ann smiled. “Alright dear. I’ll let you continue. I brought you back a plate of food.” Ann turned around and headed towards the bathroom.
“Where are you going?!” Tara exclaimed.
Ann jumped. “Tara honey, calm down. I’m just going to the bathroom. A lady at out church made some chili and its not settling too well with me.” Ann held her lower stomach. She opened the bathroom and Tara was right there in the door way. “Tara, what has gotten in to you?”
Tara quickly looked around over Ann’s shoulder and didn’t see Willow anywhere. “I…uh…I thought I l-left something in there earlier wh-when I took my b-bath.”
“Well can it wait? I really need to go hun. I’ll only be a few minutes.” Ann gently pushed Tara out of the doorway and closed the door.
Tara paced back and forth in front of the bathroom.
Tara walked down the hall to Ann’s room. She looked in the closet and under the bed. Tara walked out and headed downstairs. She checked in every room whispering out Willow’s name.
Tara rushed back upstairs. She paced back and forth in front of the bathroom again.
Tara walked back in her room. She sat down on the bed, biting on her nails.
She was brought out of her thoughts when she heard the bathroom door open. Tara heard the sound of footsteps headed down the stairs. She walked towards the bedroom door and peeked out. She didn’t see any sign of Ann. She walked towards the bathroom. She crossed her eyes in disgust when the smell rolled out and hit her nose. She held her nose as she reached under the sink for a can of Lysol. She sprayed until the room was filled with a mist of fog. She heard a recognizable whimper coming from the bathtub. She walked over and opened the shower curtain to find Willow sitting with her legs drawn up against her chest, holding her nose.
“I think I’m gonna puke.” Willow squeaked out.
Tara helped Willow up and held on to her as they walked out of the bathroom to the bedroom. Willow sat down on the bed with her head between her knees. Tara sat down beside of her rubbing her back.
“What the hell did that woman eat?” Willow asked.
Tara tried her best to keep from laughing, “Chili.”
“My god. I think something crawled up her ass and died.” Willow said making gagging noises.
Tara couldn’t hold back. The room filled with sounds of laughter as she fell back on the bed.
“And my butt’s cold from sitting in the bathtub.”
Tara laughed even harder, snorting when she took in air.
“It’s not funny.” Willow looked at the hysterical blonde and stuck out her bottom lip.
Tara’s laughter decreased to a giggle. “I’m sorry baby.”
Willow took in a much needed cleansing breath. “Remind me to never, NEVER hide in a bathroom again.”
Tara smiled and kissed Willow on the lips. “Even though you l-look absolutely beautiful like that, you n-need to get dressed.”
Willow looked around the room. “Umm Tara? Where are my clothes?”
Tara pointed under the bed. “I h-had to shove them under there when Ann c-came home.”
Willow smiled and walked around the other side. She bent down and started pulling her clothes out.
A knock was heard on the door. Willow dived down on the floor and rolled under the bed.
Tara rushed to the door and opened it.
Ann stood there with a glass of tea with ice and lemon floating in it. “I brought this up to you.” She almost dropped the drink when she looked around the room. “What in the world happened in here Tara?” She sat the glass on the dresser.
“Uh…w-well…I…uh…” Tara tried her best to come up with something but her mind was a blank.
“This is your idea of redecorating? Where’s my lamp and why is the headboard busted up. Oh my god!” Ann yelled when she saw a bar from the bed sticking out of the wall. “You have demolished my guest room.” Ann pulled the stick out of the wall and threw it on the floor. It rolled under the bed.
“Ow!” A voice came out.
“Who’s here?” Ann found another bar on the floor and armed herself.
Tara jerked the stick out of the woman’s grip.
Ann whipped her head around. “Tara! What is going on around here? I demand an answer!” Ann stomped her foot.
Willow emerged, fully clothed, rubbing her head. “Is there a fucking target on my head and it reads ‘HIT HERE’?”
Ann pointed at Willow while looking at Tara, “What the heck is she doing here?”
Tara pointed the stick in Ann’s face causing her to back up. “She is here because she loves me.” Tara said plainly.
Willow smiled and puffed out her chest in pride.
Ann shot Willow a deadly glare. “I thought you left for good.” She turned back to Tara. “She doesn’t love you. She just wants your money.” She whispered.
Willow walked around the bed and stood toe to toe with the woman. “You are a fucking idiot! Tara knows about you and James.”
Ann’s eyes shot wide open and her mouth dropped. “James? What are you talking about?”
Willow reached in her back pocket. Ann locked her eyes on the papers as the redhead handed them to Tara. Tara handed the stick over to Willow.
“First.” Tara opened up one page. “This news p-paper article.” She handed it to Ann.
The woman read over the page. She didn’t say a word as Willow took it out of her hands.
“Second, these phone c-calls to my n-number in Sunnydale.” Again Ann was silent as Willow removed the paper from her hands.
“And last.” Tara’s nostrils flared and flung the final page in Ann’s face. “Your and James marriage certificate!”
Ann looked at it. She closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. “Tara, I ca….”
“Don’t! Just don’t!” Tara screamed in the woman’s face causing her to flinch.
Willow grabbed the woman by the arm.
“What are you doing?!” Ann yelled out.
“I think we need to go downstairs and you two can talk. Tara?” Willow asked looking at the blonde.
Tara nodded her head.
Willow guided the woman to the door and into the hallway, followed by Tara.
“Willow, your shirt’s inside out.” Tara whispered.
“You try to get dressed under a bed and see what you look like.” Willow giggled and they walked downstairs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Let me go! You’re insane!” Ann pulled at her ropes holding to the chair.
“That oughta hold ya.” Willow grunted one more time making sure the ropes held Ann’s hands in place.
Tara threw the stick on the floor and sat down on the couch. “Start talking, bitch.”
Ann was taken back by Tara’s abnormal behavior. “Tara, please untie me. I took care of you when you were sick for god’s sake.”
“Oh yeah, right! You drugged her and kept her out of it. Sick my ass! And speaking of sick asses...”
“Willow, please n-not now.” Tara said.
Willow sat down on the arm of the couch beside her love and let her continue.
“I want t-to know everything Ann.”
“I don’t know what you are talking about. She has brainwashed you Tara. Can’t you see that?” Ann tried her best to sound as innocent as possible.
Tara sighed and sat back. She looked up at Willow for help.
Willow nodded her head. She got up and ran outside.
“Tara please let me go. I don’t know what kind of lies she has told you but that’s all it is, lies.”
“That’s all m-my life has been is one b-big lie. I trusted you and s-so did m-m-mom. How c-could you do that to her?” Tara looked at the woman with disgust.
Ann fell silent and turned her head.
So many things were racking around in Tara’s head. She put her finger and thumb on the bridge of her nose and slightly rubbed. She felt hands massage her shoulders and she began to moan.
Tara leaned her head back and looked up. Willow bent down and kissed the blonde on the head.
Ann groaned and rolled her eyes.
Willow stood up straight, walked around and sat down with Tara on the couch. She reached behind her and brought out her gun. She handed it over to Tara.
“I d-don’t think it’s g-going to come to that, honey.” Tara laid the gun on the table.
“Well just in case. Ya know.” Willow smiled.
Tara looked at Ann. “I s-suggest you start talking b-before I have to l-let my girlfriend loose on you.” She looked back at Willow and gave her a wink.
“I’m sure I’m strong enough to beat the truth out of ya.” Willow smacked her fist on the palm of her hand for dramatic effect.
“What do you want to know?” She relented as she looked at both of them.
“Start at the b-beginning.” Tara said.
“James befriended your real father when he found out that your mother was a very wealthy woman. She was given the money by her parents when they died. When she was first pregnant with you, James made it seem like your father had an accident, basically to get him out of the way. He just moved right on in. Your mother was too trusting.” Ann laughed.
“You bitch!” Tara grabbed the gun, darted towards Ann and pointed the weapon at her head.
“Tara.” Willow got off the couch and headed towards the blonde.
“No! Sit down Willow.” Tara said never leaving her eyes off Ann.
Willow sat back down without saying a word.
Ann didn’t have to be told again. She could see that Tara wasn’t playing around. “After you were born, James insisted that you carried his last name. He couldn’t marry your mother because he was married to me. Your mother put almost all the money in a trust fund for you. James tried to convince her not too but she wanted you to have a good future. What money she left out, James when through it quickly. Gambling, giving some to me, paying off old gambling debts. When that was gone, he got in deeper debt and tried to get your mother to pay them off, but all the money was put back for you and she refused to touch it. James temper was out of control. He would beat her and you too. I came in the picture and became your mother’s friend, but it developed into something more.”
“Go on!” Tara demanded.
“James became obsessed. He told me what he was planning to do. I did try my best to change his mind, but he was relentless. He decided that if Jackie wouldn’t give him the money, he would just wait until you were eighteen and take it. Jackie told me that she was going to leave and take you with her. I told James and he went nuts. He came up with a plan. I was to convince her to draw a will out and leave you the money and then he would take it from there. Next thing I know, the police were at my door telling me that your mother was dead. I knew James did it before he told me. He left with you soon after that and moved from one place to another. He had to keep clear of the police and the people that were after him.”
“And what did he expect to do after Tara turned eighteen and you all took the money, kill her?” Willow asked.
Ann sighed, “Yes. When you called me, I called him. I told him that Willow was with you and I had to come up with something to get her out of the way.”
“Surprise bitch!” Willow commented.
Ann cleared her throat, “I was to take you to the bank in the morning and bring you back here. Then he would do what he had to do and we were going to leave the country.”
Tara lowered the gun and dropped it on the coffee table with a thump. She walked out of the living room into the hallway. She dropped down on her hands and knees and threw up. Willow knelt down beside of her and held her head. Tara wiped her mouth and sat back on her heels. She broke down and started to cry.
“Shh baby.” Willow pulled the distressed blonde into her arms and rocked her back and forth.
Tara put her hand on Willow’s chest. She felt something running up to Willow’s collar. “What’s that?” She asked still running her hand up and down.
“Oh! Uh…that’s a wire. I was recording what Ann said. The recorder is out in my car.”
Tara kissed Willow on the cheek. “I knew y-you were smart.” Tara gave Willow a half smile.
“I love your smile. I love you.” Willow reached down to kiss the blonde.
Tara pulled back. “I love you too but I have real bad breath. I need to brush my teeth.” Tara got up and gave Willow a hug.
“You go brush your teeth and I’ll be in the living room.”
They both parted.
"Oh yeah?! Well...so's your face!
-Fear Itself
By the by, LOVED the update. 
)
Please update soon the suspense is killing me!
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