Changing Worlds

[Justified12]

Changing Worlds


Author: Justified12
Disclaimers: I don’t own any BTVS characters…(but if I did, season six and onwards would have undergone some serious reconstructions. )
Summary: Willow finds a mysterious mirror that shows her a world containing so much more than just her reflection.
Note: Italics are thoughts
Rating: PG to NC-17


CHAPTER 1

Willow watched the trees fly past her window. She dreaded each second that they travelled because it brought her destination closer. She thought back to all the fights and tantrums she had thrown over her parent’s decision. Willow didn’t want to move, she was quite happy living in Sunnydale. Unfortunately, her dad wasn’t. He was a professor of Ancient Literature and it wasn’t very easy to find a job that paid well in a small city if you had a profession like that. After being offered a place at Oxford University in England though, there was no question about the family’s next move.

It had all happened so fast and when the initial shock had passed, Willow began to feel resentment towards her parents. Through their selfish choice, she would automatically lose her friends, her plans for the future and even if she didn’t always get along with them, the rest of her family. Just to add to this, she was also in her last year of school and it had now been completely interrupted. How was she ever going to get into a good university without a high school diploma?

“You alright back there sweetie?” Willow turned her head slightly to see her mother’s face poking out from the front seat. “Yeah mum. Just fine.” There was a little bit more sarcasm in that comment than originally intended and by the look she got in return, Willow knew her mother hadn’t missed it. She couldn’t help it though. There was nothing to look forward to any more. Her life was ruined.

A few minutes later, their new house came into view. Despite Willow’s horrible mood, she couldn’t push down the awe that she felt when she saw it. Sitting there before them was a huge, almost Edwardian style mansion. The grey bricks of its walls were outlined by the tall oak trees placed strategically at its sides. The house had a dark, crumbling roof and just below its highest peak, Willow could make out a small square window with curtains hiding its contents. Her eyes fixated on this point, drawn to its potential mystery but just as she began to lose herself in the idea of a dingy attic, full of old trunks and hidden secrets, her father rapped loudly on her car window.

“Come on. You can be depressed inside.” He quipped, a sly smirk on his face.
Willow climbed out dramatically, slamming the door behind her. He glared at her and opened his mouth to speak but was interrupted. “Oops. Sorry about that Ira.”
Willow walked off before he could hand out a harsh scolding. She knew how much her father hated for her to call him by name but she just loved the feeling of power that it gave her.

She followed her mother through the huge brown cedar door and into her ‘new home’. It was cold, dark and smelled of old library books. There were antique rugs that covered the decaying floorboards in nearly every room, each one with its own intricate design. Some she liked - most she didn’t. Paintings of strangers hung on the hallway walls. They all had those creepy eyes that seemed to follow her everywhere. By the time Willow reached her room, she was relieved at the thought that she could make this space her own. She would have to get used to the rest of the house but her bedroom belonged to her. Upon opening the door she noticed a four-poster bed, an old wardrobe and a sit-in window. Willow examined them all closely and then smiled. At least some things in the house were nice. She sat down on the bed and imagined what she would do with the space that was now at her complete disposal. The bed and the wardrobe can stay. I’ll need some new curtains and…hmm. Willow stood up and ran her hands over the walls. The light blue paint was peeling. I think a pale green would look nice on this wall and the others can be white… Her thoughts were interrupted as her mum knocked on the door.

“Come in.” Willow relented, walking back over to the bed. “Oh good. Do you want to keep the bed? How about this old wardrobe? It’s a bit dingy isn’t it? We can buy you a new one.” Her mother was ranting excitedly, obviously looking forward to the redecorating process herself. Upon seeing Willow’s raised eyebrows she stopped, moving over to sit beside her. “Listen, I know how upset this move has made you but I want you to know that now, with your father’s new job, we will have enough money to buy you whatever stuff you want for your new room. Paint, furniture, a new bedspread…anything.” Her mother smiled, hopeful that this would somehow compensate. When Willow’s expression barely changed, she continued. “We could even go to the shops and buy you some new clothes if you wanted.” Willow relented and dropped her head. “We’ll see… But, thanks anyway mum.”

“Sheila!” They were both caught a little off guard at the sound of Willow’s father calling out from downstairs. “Just a minute!” Her mother called back. “Let me know if you want to go shopping.” She added cheerily before standing and exiting the room.
“I will.” Willow said quietly to herself, long after her mum had left.

****

Willow stared up at her ceiling. It was covered in cracks and dents. She began to wonder why they had bought such a dodgy old place if money was no longer a problem. They could’ve gotten a brand new apartment in the city, with designer furniture and a nice practical layout, something that looked as expensive as it was. Instead, they were here. Willow was now sure that this place was at least a hundred years old… but in a way, she wasn’t complaining. As much as she hated to admit it, she enjoyed the thought of living somewhere with so much history. What annoyed her was the rusting, broken doorknobs and taps, the total lack of heat and the creepy little dollhouse in the living room. Something about miniature wooden people that were older than her just wasn’t right.

Willow ran her hands through her chin length auburn red hair, stopping briefly to play with the thin plait on the right side of her head. She thought back to her friends in Sunnydale. They were so far away now… she began to doubt whether or not she’d ever see them again at all. She was never the most popular girl at school but she always had her two ‘besties’- Buffy and Xander. She and Xander had been friends since primary school, meeting in the playground as outcasts and becoming bound by their unpopularity. As time went on, they each made other friends and hung out with different people, but their alliance always stayed strong. Buffy only joined them in their sophomore year of high school but somehow it had always felt like she’d been with them the whole time. With them around, Willow had always known who to turn to for help or guidance or even a shoulder to cry on. The best times she’d ever had were with the two of them and also the worst. They’d shared fights and parties, laughter and tears, the whole lot. Most of her childhood and adolescent memories were tied up within those two people and now they were gone. Thousands of kilometres away and far beyond her reach. Willow was terrified at the thought of losing them, even if they did vow to keep in contact, nobody can ever be one hundred percent sure about these things.

She turned to lie on her side and stared out the window. The afternoon was grey, just like the morning and midday had been. She was beginning to notice a theme in English weather and she was sure that it didn’t help that the climate was as gloomy as her attitude. Willow swung her legs around so that they hung off the bed and stretched out her arms. She was sick of feeling so down. It was time to explore.

Willow slowly sauntered through the dark hallway that snaked around the second floor of the house, only stopping to open the occasional door and glance at what lay beyond it.
Most of the rooms were empty, with the exception of one or two that had beds. After a little while, she realized that her bedroom was one of the biggest spaces (apart from her parents room) on this floor of the house. Then Willow noticed the stairs that lead up to the attic. She remembered spotting the window from outside and suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to investigate further. She walked cautiously to the base and looked up. The stairs curled around to the left therefore obscuring the top from her view.

Willow glanced over her shoulder. For some reason she felt like a naughty child sneaking into some forbidden playroom. Shaking her head, she warily placed her foot on the first step. As it creaked, she felt another rush of anticipation hit her and that spurred her to move up further. The stairs were dusty and each one groaned and lurched more than the last. Finally, she reached the top. With a careful hand, she turned the brass doorknob and edged the door open. Willow was instantly hit with a strong, musty smell, indicating just how long this room had been left unused. She began to lay eyes upon its contents. First, she spotted the window she had seen earlier, then just to the right of it, an old chest. On the other side of the tiny room, where the sloping ceiling met the floor, there were some wooden crates, a tall mirror, an old dresser drawer and a dust-ridden gramophone. Willow’s eyes went wide with curiosity. Her expectation had not gone un-rewarded. The room held more than she had ever hoped for in the first place. There was so much to be discovered, so much to see and do. Where would she start?

Before she even had the chance to move completely inside the room, she heard her mother calling. It was dinnertime. With a frustrated sigh, she shut the door and headed back downstairs. The attic will just have to wait until later.

****

All through tea, Willow couldn’t shake the restless sensation in the pit of her stomach. She needed to explore that room. “I’m going back to my room.” She said bluntly, not caring or even noticing the obviously offended looks on her parent’s faces. “Uh, ok.” Her mother said, examining her emotionally. “Night.” Willow stated nonchalantly before standing and rushing up the stairs to the second floor landing. She negotiated her way through the hall to the attic stairs and this time, trying to make as little noise as possible, crept up. Upon entering the pitch-black room, she searched for a light switch. After a fruitless few minutes, she realized her dilemma and irritably conceded to finding a torch and then returning. Twenty minutes and five unpacked boxes later, she arrived back at the attic, flashlight in hand, finally ready to behold her mysterious new treasures. She first tiptoed carefully over to the chest near the window. There was no lock, so opening it wasn’t any challenge whatsoever. Inside she found some exceedingly old, almost medieval looking material. It was thick and covered with complex patterns and designs. Some of it was silk, some cotton and some a fabric she couldn’t quite identify. There were a few different colours but all of it was beautiful. Willow smiled to herself, reasonably satisfied with her first discovery.

Quickly moving on, she made her way over to the two wooden crates. They each held about fifteen vintage records; some of them original prints and most were probably worth a lot of money. Willow smirked this time, seeing a possible visit to e-bay in her future. Not really bothering to examine the old gramophone closely, she swiftly eyed the mirror and moved onto the dresser drawer. She opened every compartment but they were all empty. Feeling a little discouraged, Willow looked down at her watch, it was nearly midnight. She turned to leave the room but then something stopped her. She felt like she’d missed something.

Walking back over to the dresser, she ran her torch light over it from top to bottom. Her eyes locked on something on the floor. It was a hinge. Willow knelt down and felt the cold metal with her fingers before tracing the outline of what appeared to be a trap door. Her mouth went dry with excitement but then she noticed that it was half covered by the dresser. Straightening back up, she placed her torch on the floor and braced her body to push it backwards. It was reasonably heavy but Willow eventually managed to move it out of her way. She knelt back down on the floor and reached for its small round handle. She slowly lifted it back and her eyes hastily fell on what was inside the small shallow cavity. At first, Willow was disappointed by what she saw, a small package wrapped in white lace material, but soon she began to wonder why someone would bother to hide what ever it was in a trap door in the first place. It had to be important. She bent down and picked up the grubby parcel, wary to be gentle in case it was breakable. She gradually unwrapped it, only to find herself holding a small piece of reflective glass. It was from the mirror.

She stood up and walked over to it. Now that she looked more closely, she could see the missing section in the top right hand corner. It was exactly the same size and shape as the piece she held in her hands. Willow shifted her gaze from her hand to the mirror suspiciously. Why would someone purposely chip a piece from their mirror and hide it under the floorboards? She shook her head and moved to place the small portion back where it belonged. Just as she pressed it in, the mirror began to wobble and suddenly it lit the entire room. Willow blinked, trying to adjust to the unexpected rush of light. When her eyes finally fell on the mirror again, her mouth dropped open with shock. Instead of reflecting her, standing in the dark attic, in her jeans, dark green see-through shirt and light green singlet, the mirror showed a sunny meadow, complete with lush green grass and a forest in the distance. Willow could barely believe her eyes. There was an entire world before her, radiating summer heat and daylight. I’m dreaming right. She pinched herself. “Ow!” Ok, not right. What the hell is going on?

Her thoughts buzzed with hundreds of questions and nothing at the same time. She already knew what was to be done now. Willow lifted her hand and edged it cautiously towards the glass. She was expecting to feel the cool smooth surface but instead she felt nothing. She watched in disbelief as her hand went straight through to the other side. There was only one decision left. Whether or not to go over with the risk of not being able to get back. She’d seen this before, in movies. People cross into another world and then they can’t find a way to get home. Wait a minute…What am I saying? Movies? This isn’t a movie…but, then again, what am I seeing? I have to do this. I know I’ll never rest until I do it. I’m going, I’m going, I’m going. Come on, what’s there to lose? I’m pretty much miserable here anyway. And besides, it’s not like I can stop myself. Curiosity killed the cat. And I’m the cat.

Willow took a deep breath and shook her head. With one smooth motion she stepped forward through the mirror only to find nothing at the base of her feet. She fell abruptly downwards hitting the warm grass with a thud. She lifted her face and looked back over her shoulder. The mirror was gone. There was only sky and meadows. Oh boy. Willow slowly moved herself into a sitting position. She began scanning the area for any signs of life. She could see a forest to her left and a small well to her right. Other than that, she was surrounded by hilly farming land. Willow suddenly felt an onset of nausea. Where am I? How did I get here? The mirror… it… wait, that can’t be… Willow was panicking. Her breathing was getting faster with each passing second and then, all her thought processes stopped and suddenly, everything grew blurry before turning black.

[viximon]

Nice start. Looking forward next chapter. I'm curious about that new world and how Willow will fit and stuff

[Zampsa1975]

Wow! Interesting beginning... hope to see update-y goodness soon.

[willntarra4eva]

Im lovin this story! Update soon!!!

P.S Wuv ya

[Willowtree252]

I am really liking this start I can't wait to see where this is going. you are doing a wonderful job with taking us into a world of wonder and mystrey. P.S. I am so very glad you found happyness

[BlackIndiaInk]

Jus!! You devil, you... that is a fabulous start. I am really looking forward to the continuation of this. I don't have much time to catch a peek at the fic here nowadays but I am so glad I came and saw this. I am only sorry there is only one chapter up so far.

Why in the frilly heck would Willow venture into the mirror without proper supplies? I suppose she wasn't really thinking all that much at that moment and just wanted to let the curiosity take over. It is always nice to have a distraction when something throws a curve ball into your life.

[Justified12]

CHAPTER 2

Willow awoke to the sound of people talking. After the haziness of sleep passed, she could make out the voices of an older man and a teenage girl. They seemed to be discussing her. “It is obvious that she is not from this land.” She heard the man say firmly. “Yes. Her clothing is very strange indeed… but that aside, I think she might need our help.” The younger girl replied. “A bed for the night I can provide but anything else will be your responsibility. I cannot waste my time caring for a stranger. There is work to be done in the fields. For now I have placed her in your room, tonight you will have to sleep on the floor.” The older man had become slightly annoyed and Willow heard his footsteps as he moved away.

Until now, Willow had kept her eyes shut, the thought of opening them not really occurring to her, but upon the ending of the stranger’s conversation, her eyelids flickered open. She immediately noticed the fire that was roaring from across the room. It was radiating heat and the red flames, even in the confusion of her situation, were comforting. Then Willow began to take note of the rest of her surroundings. The small room she was in was made entirely out of timber, excluding the fireplace, which was a dark grey stone. There was a feeble looking wooden chair in one corner and apart from the hay-filled bed that she was currently lying in, it was the only other piece of furniture there. Willow moved to sit up then, wanting to take a better look at this strange room but was interrupted by the sound of another set of footsteps. Unlike before though, this time, they were heading towards her. Willow instinctively shifted back down into the covers of the bed and shut her eyes. A few seconds later, she heard the door creak open.

Whoever had entered the room carefully closed the door and moved over to her bed. She could feel their movements without actually seeing what was going on. Soon Willow felt the mystery person sit down beside her on the bed. She was a little surprised when they began to touch her forehead, probably feeling for a temperature. The hand then moved slowly downwards across her left cheek and to the side of her neck. It was a loving, gentle motion, like something a mother would bestow upon her sick child. Then the contact was gone but the weight beside her remained still. Willow frowned slightly and let her eyes gradually open.

“Oh, you’re awake.” A girl about her age with honey blonde hair sat beside Willow. She was wearing an untidy light brown dress, typical of a Middle Ages peasant. It had a corset shaped bodice and fell freely at the hips. The girl had bunched her sleeves up, most probably due to the day’s heat. Willow moved her gaze back up to the girl’s face. “Where am I?” She managed to croak out before seeing a look of concern cross over the other girl’s blue eyes. “Oh, well, I – we, found you lying out in the paddock. My father brought you inside and put you in my bed. I’m Tara. I told him that you should stay for the night… Just in case you were tired or unwell.” She hesitated.

“Oh…” Willow lifted a hand to her face and tried to soothe away sudden headache. It was then that she remembered the mirror. “I know this might be a silly question but would you mind telling me where this is?” The girl looked at her with a quizzical smile. “The land of our King Arthur, England.” Willow sighed with relief and relaxed back into her pillow. Hold on a minute… She sprung back up. “Did you say Arthur?” Huh, I thought his name was Charles…But he’s still a prince anyway… Wait a minute… “What year is it?” Tara raised her left eyebrow and replied “1406.” With a tone that implied the fact as being the most obvious thing on earth. “What!?” Willow’s eyes went wide with horror and she began to squirm around frantically, searching the room for something to do. Tara placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her down. “What are you doing? What about the date has you panicking so?” Willow looked at her, the reality of her situation slowly sinking in. Back in time…back-in-time…I’ve gone back-in-time to the middle ages…oh boy. She took another look around the room. No power points, no light switches and definitely no T.V. This was, for sure, not a Twenty First century bedroom. Willow then turned her attention back to the girl, Tara. She was watching her patiently with a half smile. “I… must have hit my head when I fell.” Willow rubbed her head dramatically. “Oh dear.” Tara leant down and once again lovingly began to caress Willow’s forehead. “I should get you some tea.” She stood up and swiftly exited the room, leaving Willow alone to ponder her thoughts.

Tea? I don’t think it’s going to help this problem very much… Willow bit her bottom lip as she once again glanced around the room. From what she had overheard before, this was Tara’s bedroom and she was in her bed. Setting aside her panic at having gone back in time, Willow contemplated getting up and offering to sleep on the floor. After all, she didn’t want to take away Tara’s own bed from her, regardless of what year they were in. It was simple manners and besides, Tara had been so nice to her, she felt like she wanted to return the favour. Just as she had swung her legs around to get out, Tara returned to the room. “Where are you going? Are you leaving?” Her voice was almost panicked. “Uh… I just thought that maybe you know, seeing as this is your bed, you might like to sleep in it… I could sleep on the floor?” Willow stumbled through her sentence, suddenly a little nervous around this stranger. Tara smiled and walked over to the bed, placing the small clay teacup on a rickety wooden chair along the way. She then gently shifted Willow’s legs back onto the mattress. “Don’t mind that. I shall be perfectly comfortable on the ground, I have done it many a times before when we have had guests.” Tara went to retrieve the tea and sat down beside Willow. She handed the cup to her guest and watched as she took a small sip. “But…I don’t think that I’d be a very good person if I let you do that. I mean, there’s being a guest and then there are just bad manners.” Willow said half laughing. She smiled her most convincing smile and made puppy dog eyes. “Isn’t there anything we can do so that neither of us have to sleep on the floor?” Tara had a look on her face that was in between smirking and thinking. Her eyes drifted around the room until suddenly an idea hit her. “Well, I suppose if you are being so insistent we could share the bed?” Tara asked slowly and with slight apprehension. Willow smiled broadly. “That depends. Do you sleep talk or kick or hit coz you know once I was having a sleep over with Buffy and she- … never mind.” She shook her head at her own babbling. Tara quirked an eyebrow at her and grinned slyly. “Is that a yes?”

“Yes. That’s a yes. I mean, if it’s ok with you? Because I want you to be ok and if me taking up your bed is not ok then… that’s not ok. Ok?” Something about this girl had put Willow into full babble mode. She glanced up at her trying to work out how much of an idiot she has just made of herself but in return saw only a bemused smile. “I would be honoured to share my bed with you.” Tara looked at her intently and Willow blushed at the blonde’s soft words. “Oh.” She replied absently. “Just one question though…” Tara asked slowly. “Sure, anything.” Willow smiled at her host giddily. “You have yet to tell me your name.” Tara gazed sheepishly at the young red head and watched closely as Willow dramatically put her face in her hands. “I’m so sorry. It’s Willow.”

Tara smiled shyly and extended her hand. “Very pleased to meet you Willow.” There was a prolonged silence after their polite exchange. Willow’s skin still tingled from where her hand had touched the blonde’s. She absently looked down at the teacup in her hands and then slowly extended it towards Tara. The girl placed the small cup back on the wooden chair and returned to Willow’s side. “Well, um, maybe we should be getting to bed then. What time is it anyway?” Willow glanced around, naively searching for a clock. Tara stood up and walked over to the window. She slowly drew back the thick curtain and peered into the night. “It is close to midnight I believe.” Tara assumed quietly. Willow stared at her. “How can you tell?” Tara smiled as she returned to the bed. “The height of the moon in the sky. How else would you tell the time?” Willow opened her mouth to answer but thought better of it. The whole concept of watches and clocks might be a little too much for Tara to handle. Instead she nodded and replied “Yeah. Of course.”

Tara’s expression turned to a questioning gaze before she spoke. “Would you mind closing your eyes for a time Willow? I-I need to dress for bed if we are to sleep now…” Willow’s cheeks suddenly became flushed as she realized what Tara was asking. The thought of this girl changing in the same room as her made her nervous to say the least. Willow had only recognised her preference for girls over boys a few years ago and in a way she was still getting used to the fact. She hadn’t really liked anyone in particular before; she just knew that she found girls much more interesting and Willow could tell that there was something about this beautiful blonde that she found very interesting. “S-sure.” She closed her eyes and used all of the will power she possessed not to peak at the sounds of rustling clothes coming from across the room. She soon used her hands to cover her face, just in case.

After a few seconds though, the urge became too much. Sneakily Willow peered between her fingers, guilt racking her mind. What if she got caught? Tara had her back to Willow and through her fingers she could see that the girl had completely stripped down. She heard Tara’s footsteps as she walked to a chair at the side of the room to pull on her nightgown. Willow’s heart jumped as she realised that Tara wasn’t going to be wearing anything underneath. She gathered that the Twenty First century underwear she was so familiar to, obviously hadn’t been invented yet. Oh goddess.

Willow hurriedly re-covered her eyes as Tara turned toward the bed to make her way back. Her breathing was fast and shallow, getting quicker as Tara got closer. Soon they would be lying next to each other, nothing but material separating their bodies. Willow had never felt so passionate about someone she just met. There were entirely new thoughts racing through her mind and she felt completely overwhelmed with the unexpected reaction she was having to this dreamy blonde. Finally Tara reached the bed and slowly climbed in beside her.

As Tara shifted around, trying to make herself comfortable in the hay, she quickly became aware of a change in Willow’s mood. She could feel how rigid the girl’s body was, almost as if she was afraid to touch her even slightly. For a second she wondered what was the matter with her guest before realizing that Willow was still fully clothed. “Are you uncomfortable?” Tara asked gently, looking pointedly down at the redhead’s body through the covers.

Willow was a little shocked at Tara’s question, thinking that it referred to how distantly and obviously she was positioned away from the blonde’s body- all crumpled up on the very edge of the wooden, hay-filled bed. Willow was afraid that if she was touching Tara, the girl might notice how attracted she was to her. A foolish theory yes, but one that seemed perfectly logical to Willow at the time.
Upon detecting Tara’s obvious gaze, she caught on to the real meaning of the question.
“Oh, ah, you mean because I’m all dressed. With the jeans a-and the shirt a-and… yeah.” Willow smiled sheepishly and she babbled.

“Would you like some more appropriate sleeping clothes?” Tara asked, quickly throwing back the covers and swivelling out of the bed before Willow had a chance to reply. Within seconds she was back with another nightgown and handed it to her guest.
Willow looked at the clothing in her hands with wide eyes, the thought of wearing such a thin nightgown, just like Tara’s, made her feel a little vulnerable. Their bodies would be separated by even less material. She smiled and not wanting to offend the girl, nodded that she would change.

Tara got back into the bed just as Willow climbed out. She walked over to the other side of the room and took a deep breath. She turned around to see that Tara was covering her eyes, just like she had before. Willow hoped that the blonde wasn’t as mischievous as she was. After another thirty seconds of mental preparation, Willow began removing her clothes. Unlike Tara, she left both her bra and underwear on underneath the nightgown though.

Willow walked back over to the medieval style bed, the notion that she was actually living in the past finally hitting her for the first time. Home was so far away, so long away. How was she going to get home? Where was home? Concepts that were unfamiliar and surprising to Willow came rushing into her mind, whizzing around and making her headache even worse. And what surprised the red head even more is that as she looked down at Tara it didn’t even seem to unsettle her at all. What was at home now anyway? An empty house filled with boxes of old memories? Tara smiled and pulled her hands away from her face. What was unsettling though, was her growing attraction to the girl laying in the bed before her. “Is that better?” She asked gently. “Much.” Willow grinned, trying not to appear as nervous as she felt. Climbing back under the covers and resuming her position on the edge of the bed Tara put her hand up to Willows face. “How does your head feel?” She again began to caress Willows forehead. “Did the tea help?” Willow closed her eyes. She felt light-headed and dizzy, although neither of these things had anything to do with her hitting her head. Tara’s tender touch was making her feel all tingly. The room began to spin and as the blonde’s caress moved down along her cheek, Willow’s stomach lurched with nerves. “I, uhm, yeah, it’s much better.” She finally managed to let out. Tara pulled her hand away then and smiled wide. “That’s good. You should really get some sleep now. I’m sure you’ll be even better in the morning.” Willow frowned slightly at the loss of contact, wishing she hadn’t spoken and opened her eyes. “Ok. G-goodnight Tara.” She said moving to face the other direction. “Goodnight Willow.” She felt the hay move as the blonde also turned to face the opposite way.

Although she was supposed to be sleeping, Willow felt wide-awake. Her thoughts buzzed with questions but surprisingly none of them had to do with the fact that she was trapped in the past. Instead, they were all to do with the mysterious blonde girl that she was so hopelessly drawn to. Willow had never felt this attracted to anyone in her life, especially someone she’d just met, girl or no. She was scared that Tara might some how figure out her true feelings and that would just be a disaster. Or not… would Tara even understand? When did ‘gay’ become a term that meant something other than happy? It was hard enough to explain being gay in the Twenty First Century, let alone the Thirteenth. Typical that I’ve got the hots for a girl who is probably not only straight, but might even have me burned at the stake for thinking this way.

Willow shook her head. Regardless of how much she liked Tara, she was going to have to put a stop to this lustful thinking. There was no way that the blonde would understand, let alone feel the same. At this, the redhead closed her eyes, hoping that in the morning she might have forgotten all about her little crush. Maybe even wake up in her own bed, surrounded by ugly brown boxes marked ‘Willow’ realizing that this whole thing had just been a weird dream.

****

[Justified12]

Sorry about the delay in updates everyone! School and life were demanding my attention Anyways, thanks for the feedback all! Much appreciated The next chapter will be up shortly.

Justified xo

[Zampsa1975]

good update-y goodness.... soon pleaaase

[masterjendu]

Yup, I'm a-waitin for updatey-goodness, too!

[Justified12]

CHAPTER 3

Willow was pulled out of her sleep that morning by a burst of sunlight that came in through a large worn gap in the curtains. Refusing to give in, she kept her eyes closed and pulled the covers high over her head. No waking up. What was the point? It’s not like she had anything to look forward to. Moving from Sunnydale was the worst decision her parents had ever made and Willow wasn’t going to make it easy for them.
”No Mum! I don’t wanna get up yet. No school today!” Willow mumbled, her eyes still firmly shut and the covers high over her head. She wasn’t quite awake yet and her current circumstances hadn’t properly sunken in. She was pulled into reality by a sudden movement beside her. Turning around to inspect its source Willow came face to face with Tara. The blonde was also just beginning to open her beautiful blue eyes.

Following her first instinct, Willow quickly snapped her eyelids shut and pretended to be asleep, giving no thought to the fact that she had just been making plenty of noise and moving around. Yet with her eyes closed, a realization quickly became apparent to her. She wasn’t at home or even in her own bed. She was still lying on that strange straw bed next to a girl she hardly knew, god knows how many years in the past. The whole time travel thing wasn’t just some weird dream her mind had concocted. Damn. Her head had begun to spin with thoughts and she unconsciously opened her eyes in an attempt to steady herself. Not a good idea.

Willow’s gaze was instantly met by Tara’s surprisingly attentive stare. The girl’s clear blue eyes rested heavily on her features as if they had quite comfortably been there for at least a few minutes. A little embarrassed, Willow looked away, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink. Tara watched her, slightly confused at why the girl was acting so odd. Shaking her head at her own pathetic behaviour, Willow smiled and turned back “Uh, morning.” She whispered huskily.

Tara turned her face fully towards Willow. “Morning.” Her lips curved into a smile before fading into a small frown. Tara’s eyes were now directed toward the light shining in from her window. “What’s wrong?” Willow observed quietly. Tara’s eyes snapped back to her guest. “Oh, I was just thinking that I should have gotten up earlier. There is so much work to be done and I would rather get to it early. Before the sun becomes too ruthless...” Willow looked over her shoulder at the window. “Why, what time is it?” She inquired but as she turned back to Tara, she only found an empty bed. “Time to get up.” Tara called cheerfully behind her, walking out of the room. Willow smiled and lifted herself from the bed. She removed the borrowed nightgown and replaced it with her clothes from yesterday. She was just about to walk out of Tara’s bedroom door when the blonde came bustling in. She was now fully dressed and carrying two wooden bowls.

“Breakfast?” She grinned at Willow before passing her a bowl and sitting back down on the bed with her own. “Thanks.” Willow beamed at her, her stomach jumping a little at how beautiful Tara looked in her day clothes- Her clear blue eyes, set off by the trimming in her dress, radiated warmth, her bright smile shone happily and with every movement; her long honey blonde hair flicked gently around her shoulders. Willow sat for a moment, entranced with the very sight of the girl before reprimanding her own wandering thoughts.

Willow finally looked down at the contents of her bowl. It appeared to be porridge of some sort. She used the small wooden spoon to prod it and mix it until finally she lifted the spoon warily to her mouth. Expecting the worst, she was completely surprised to find that the mixture tasted of oats, fruit and sugar. She looked curiously at Tara for a few seconds then asked inquisitively “What is this?” Tara lifted a spoonful in the air and laughed.
“It’s my own secret recipe. Do you like it?”
“Yeah. It’s sweet.” Willow giggled.
“And so are you for saying so.” Tara glanced at her with mysterious eyes. Willow saw a hint of something in her gaze that she couldn’t quite place.

“Tara…” Willow looked at the girl. Tara continued to eat and urged Willow to do the same by nodding at her. “Can I ask you something?” At this Tara put her spoon in her bowl and looked at Willow intently.
“Yes, you may”
Willow hesitated. Do I ask her what I’m dying to know? Or just leave it. Oh god oh god oh god. “Um, are you, um, have you ever, do you like…” Damn! I can’t do this!
“I didn’t disturb you last night did I?” Willow covered, relenting to her own nerves.
Tara cocked her head to one side as though she was very deep in thought. Finally she looked at Willow full in the eye. “I don’t think that that was your real question… but I don’t mind. You will ask me in due time whatever it is you wanted to know.” She laughed, music to Willows ears. “And no, you did not disturb me last night, it was nice to have you there.”
“Oh, um, ok” Willow stuttered turning pink, Tara had seen straight through her.

The girls finished their breakfast in relative silence and soon enough Tara lead Willow out of the house. She was grateful for the fresh air on her face, cooling her down and reviving her senses. Tara proudly pointed out the boundaries of her family’s land and described to her guest how she was in charge of managing the small vegetable garden, few various fruit trees and gathering water from the well. Tara then directed Willow’s attention to her father and brother who were working out in the fields near the edge of their property. For a moment she felt a pang of jealousy toward the two men out in the field. They get to spend everyday of their lives with this beautiful girl and I bet they don’t stop for a second to appreciate it… appreciate her.Yet, Willow was fascinated to find how simple their way of life was compared to her own. In a way, it was beautiful. She could easily see herself enjoying such an uncomplicated existence. Get up, eat, work, eat, sleep. No hassles or pressures other than maintaining your family. You grow your own food, gather your own water. Have complete control of your own life. It would be nice.

“Today I must harvest the apples, they have just come into season and will be ripe for the picking” Tara smiled at Willow and motioned towards a small orchard just behind their house.
“Ooh can I help?” Willow eagerly offered herself to the cause. She was intently interested in discovering Tara’s way of life, not to mention enticed by the prospect of spending a whole day with the girl. Tara’s grin grew wider as she turned and began walking towards the orchard. After a few steps though, she looked over her shoulder at Willow. Her eyes darted up and down Willow’s body quickly and her hand gently gestured for the girl to follow. Willow’s heart skipped a beat and her eyes unintentionally glazed over as she followed Tara, watching her every movement from behind - the swish of her hair, the light on her skin, her perfection.

Together they collected two woven baskets at the edge of the orchard before continuing on. Tara examined the first apple tree carefully. She looked at the fruit high above her head and smiled contentedly to herself. Willow quirked an eyebrow in her direction.
“Uh, Tara?” She asked cynically.
“Yes.” Tara replied cheerfully.
“How are you going to reach those? … I mean, it’s not like you’ve got a ladder.” Willow stopped at this, looking down at the grass, wondering when the common ladder first came into use. However, before she had too much time to dwell on it, she heard Tara’s voice from above her. “I don’t know what a ‘ladder’ is… but I’m sure I don’t need it.” Tara shouted down from her perch in the tree. The girl had managed to climb to the branch containing the gorgeously red apples in mere seconds. Willow stared at her, completely stunned. Tara noticed the amazed expression on the redhead’s face and giggled. “Aren’t you coming up?”
Willow took that as an invitation and getting in touch with her inner child, she clumsily began to climb.
By the time she reached Tara, Willow was sufficiently satisfied that she was not cut out for this. The last time she’d done something even remotely physically demanding was when she was hurriedly packing boxes and cleaning her room before the big move. That seemed like such a distant memory now…

Tara noticed Willow’s heavy breathing and splintered hands.
“Oh my.” She breathed, taking Willows hands in her own. Willow felt her head rush at the blonde’s touch and was scared she would topple out of the tree. Tara’s hands were so soft and warm… and although they were surely callused in places from her work, Willow barely noticed. Just the girl’s touch was so intense and Willow wanted more. Tara was softly rubbing Willows palm with her thumb, moving along her hand to where the splinters were. Once she reached them she took Willow’s hand fully into her own and peered at the bleeding sores. Willow felt flustered and she ached for Tara to be touching her whole body, enveloping her within her arms, caressing her hair.... It was with great struggle that Willow removed her hand from Tara’s gentle embrace to examine her tiny wounds. She tried to act casual and pretend that it didn’t hurt as she poked around, eventually managing to pry the splinters out with her nails. Willow winced slightly as blood trickled down her palm but wiped it on her jeans and proceeded to look up at Tara as if it were nothing.
”Are you ok?” The girl asked, intrigued by the way Willow had pulled out the pieces of twig.
“Yeah, I’m fine” Willow answered nonchalantly, “Shall we continue?”

After what seemed like hours to Willow, they had finally finished Tara’s chores. It was almost after midday and the sun had fully risen, baring its full heat upon the two girls. They ambled back to the house and set about doing the in-door chores before preparing lunch for the men. Willow was having flash backs from their day. Tara’s hands working her sores, holding the girl as she came off the last tree, their fingers brushing at the well, carrying the bucket of fresh milk together, the sun on Tara’s hair as she flicked it from her face… it was driving her insane. How can one person be so perfect, so flawless? How can she make me feel this way? Willow thought it best to push her thoughts from her mind and return to the chores, so grabbing an old rag, she began to help Tara clean the already spotless house.

“Is the food ready Tara?” Her father asked stepping through the door, his head barley fitting through.
“Yes father, it is ready for you.”
“Good.” he sat down at the table with his son and they began to eat. Tara and Willow sat opposite them to eat after making sure they had all that they needed. Her brother was the first to finish, leaving a few things on his plate.
“Tara you can take the scraps to the pigs now.”
“Yes.” She said obediently. Grabbing his plate she patiently stood in wait of her father’s scraps before heading out side. Her blonde hair fell over her face as she looked down at the floor. Willow had never seen her look so timid. When they were alone, Tara was always so bubbly and confident but now she seemed so silent and coy. Her brother stood up, belched and left the room without so much as a thank you. Willow was furious. Tara put in so much effort to please them both and they don’t so much as say thank you? What was their deal? Watching Tara, Willow felt the burning desire to whisk her away, protect her from this, offer her more, treat her better, give her all that she deserved. It was in that moment that Willow realised… It was in that moment that Willow realized she was completely and utterly hooked on the drug that is Tara… for the first time in a very long time... no, the first time ever... she was in love.

Night came quickly and before Willow knew it darkness was upon them and they were once again in Tara’s room changing into their night clothes.
“Tomorrow I shall give you something more suitable to wear.” Tara gestured at Willows jeans, shirt and sneakers.
“Um, ok” Willow hesitantly agreed, unsure of what to expect. Tara looked gorgeous in her dresses but Willow worried that she might not measure up. What if she looked like a complete fool? Feeling a little stressed by this thought, the redhead shuffled into bed. She was soon followed by Tara, who climbed in behind her and sighed heavily with exhaustion. “Goodnight Willow.” Tara said gently. “Night Tara.” Willow replied ever so quietly. She had so many questions to ask but her tiredness finally got the better of her as she drifted off to sleep.


****

[Zampsa1975]

Wow! Really good update-y goodness... soon pleaaaaase
I hope Willow soon finds a way to her home and a way to bring Tara with her.

[masterjendu]

I love how everyone is just accepting of the fact that Willow has just appeared out of nowhere. Tara doesn’t seem fazed at all by Willow’s weird clothes and manner of speech, or by the fact that she has nowhere to be and is sleeping over again. Tara’s father and brother didn’t even acknowledge Willow’s presence (even though it was just supposed to be for the night).

Most especially, Willow’s acceptance –no, eagerness- of being in this world is wonderful. She has really only thought about home once, and that was as “a distant memory”. Not that there is much for Willow to go back to, but I think she’ll realize soon enough that life in the 13th c. might not actually be too ideal for two young lesbians (and she is getting a taste of how women are treated).

I love this line from Chapter 2, by the way:

Typical that I’ve got the hots for a girl who is probably not only straight, but might even have me burned at the stake for thinking this way.

But hopefully reality won’t come too quickly, because I am really loving the magical world you’re weaving for us. And your Tara is just like sunshine!

Thank you for the update, and I hope you can keep ‘em coming.

[Justified12]

CHAPTER 4

“Hurry Willow!” Tara called from astride her horse, Phoenix “We have far to travel”.
“Ok, I’m trying.” Willow whimpered helplessly, still on the ground. She didn’t like horses… Never had and the very large daunting-looking beast before her wasn’t helping to quell her fear at all. Carefully she placed one foot in the leather stirrup.
“No.” snickered Tara, “The other foot... How are you meant to saddle your horse with that leg?” The girl was almost laughing. Willow’s face began to tinge red and she changed feet in an attempt to pull herself over the horse’s large back.
“Ouch!” The petite redhead came crashing to the ground, landing on her side. Determined, Willow quickly scrambled to her feet and tried again, only to gain the same result. Tara looked puzzled.
“Have you never ridden a horse before?”
“Um…no…Not really.” Somehow Willow didn’t think that the mini-carousel at her old super-market counted.
“Then how do you travel?”
“By car-“ Willow had to stop herself. The car obviously hadn’t been invented yet and so it was best if she just kept her mouth shut “Um I mean, by carriage.” she offered instead.
“Oh...” Tara was shocked. “How very different your way of life must be to mine.” she simply shook her head and to Willow’s relief didn’t ponder on it too much, momentarily letting the subject drop.

After much struggle and with Tara’s gentle guidance, Willow was finally on the back of her very large, loaned horse, Charlie. He was a magnificent beast, chestnut in colour with a back mane and tail and a large white star on his forehead. Had he not looked like he could chomp off Willow’s arm in the blink of an eye, she might have actually found him kind of beautiful. Feeling more at ease in her position on the saddle, her churning stomach began to settle. That was before they started moving. Charlie took off beneath her, speeding up as he followed Tara’s horse, Phoenix, into the distance. Willow grabbed on tight and fought to keep her balance as the horse cantered onwards, continuing to pick up speed. Before she knew it, the redhead had passed the fuzzy blur that was Tara and headed toward a dense forest of oak trees. “Willow stop!” She heard from behind her. But how? she thought to herself. Clenching her legs around Charlie’s stomach, she reached for the reins and pulled. The horse began to slow and with a few more tugs Willow managed to get him to stop completely. Tara came up beside her at a fast trot.
“What was that?” Willow gulped.
“Charlie was galloping; you do not want to be going that fast, not yet. After a few times out with me and Phoenix you might become comfortable enough to ride at a quicker pace.” Tara patted the horse’s neck fondly and smiled. “Charlie is a very timid horse, he was my mother’s before she died.” At this Willow looked at her apologetically but Tara didn’t seem bothered. Her gaze was more of fond remembrance than of sorrow. “He was just doing as he was told.”
“But I didn’t tell him anything!” Willow protested.
“Did you kick his side a few times?”
“Maybe… I-I’m not sure.”
“That’s why then.” Tara laughed. “It’s okay Willow, just stay close to me and Charlie will follow Phoenix on his own.”
“Ok.” Willow hesitantly gave her horse free rein and tried to trust Tara’s reassurance that everything would be ok.

They reached Tara’s surprise destination in good time, only an hour and a half. Willow was hot and sticky, as were both the horses and Tara. They dismounted and the blonde led them through a small patch of thick wood before stopping at a pristine blue lake surrounded by dense bush and scattered trees. The sun outlined the abstract rock forms jutting out along the edges of the glistening clear water. After such a hot day, Willow could think of nothing better than diving in head first. Unfortunately though, she soon realized her complete lack of bathers.

“Wow, it’s really pretty here.” Willow smiled, her eyes drifting hazily over their surroundings. Tara watched her take in the sight as she tied the horses to a nearby tree. From this position, they were free enough to drink and lie down for rest but not run off at any second. Tara strolled back over to Willow, gave her a fleeting playful glance and then set off towards the lake.
“I wish we could go swimming.” Willow sighed, turning slightly to look at the horses. From a distance they almost seemed gentle and soft. She was broken from this reverie by the sound of a loud splash. The redhead quickly turned to see Tara’s head bobbing up from the water.
“Tara! You’re going to get your dress all-“ Willow’s train of thought ceased entirely as she noticed the pile of clothing by the water’s edge. Her eyes went wide with the realisation that bathers were once again, not to be invented for years to come. Gee I really gotta get used to this whole 1400’s thing.
“Join me Willow, the water is wonderful.” Tara glided across the clear blue lake with a form of backwards breaststroke. Willow watched her in awe for a few seconds only stopping when she began to feel her skin tingling with the idea of Tara’s soft, wet body sliding across her own. Shaking her head, Willow grinned at the blonde.
“Okay… but you have to turn around.” Tara gave her a knowing smile and slowly turned her back.
Willow rushed to throw off her borrowed dress. It was a light beige colour, similar to Tara’s dresses. At first she thought that she had looked a complete idiot with it on but when Tara came to see if it fit, the look in the girl’s eyes told her otherwise. At the complete reassurance of the blonde, Willow had agreed to wear the dress for the day. Now, totally naked and utterly vulnerable, Willow anxiously climbed into the water. It was cool and refreshing against her hot skin and she shut her eyes at the pleasant sensation.

“Can I turn around now?” Tara asked gently from a few meters away.
“Oh… um yeah, sure.” Willow replied, swiftly lowering everything but her head into the water. Inadvertently, she hugged herself with her arms and began backing ever so slowly away.
Tara turned and smiled at Willow cowering in the water.
“Don’t be afraid, this lake is safe. I have swum here many times before.” The blonde gestured with her arm.
“Oh, right. No, I’m ok. J-just a little cold.” Willow offered as way of an excuse.
“There is a good way of helping that you know.” Tara spoke slowly as she made her way over to the other girl. Her mischievously glance was making Willow sink further into the water until her eyes were almost submerged.
“You need to move around!” Tara laughed, splashing Willow with her arms. At this, the redhead relaxed a little and joined in the game – all the while keeping her body immersed so as to not reveal her nakedness to Tara. They chased each other around the lake, splashing and flailing wildly as they giggled with delight. At one point, Tara managed to grab Willow’s head and push her completely underneath the water. The redhead exploded upwards and pounced on her attacker. They fought madly for domination in the shallow water until neither could breathe properly anymore. It was only then that they realised their intimate position.

Willow’s body was pressed tightly up against Tara’s. Skin on skin, arms wrapped around bodies, cool water the only thing around them. Willow’s heart was beating faster than she ever thought possible. Her green eyes locked onto Tara’s blue and they shared an intense moment. Willow could feel her head buzzing but before she could do anything stupid, she hastily removed herself from the embrace.

As she backed away, she could see Tara’s deep breaths as she too fought to keep herself steady. Their touch, although in reality lasting only a few brief seconds, had felt like hours and left the two girls both feeling exhausted. Willow swam over to the water’s edge and Tara instantly turned her back, knowing it not right to look. After she was dressed, the redhead sauntered to the horses trying to seem caught up in patting them. She heard Tara climb out of the water as well and put her clothes back on.

The awkward atmosphere between them continued to build when Tara joined Willow by Charlie and Phoenix. Avoiding the redhead’s gaze, she reached into Phoenix’s saddlebag and pulled out two carrots. She held one out to Willow and finally made eye contact.
“Would you like to help feed Charlie?” Smiling, Tara tried to loosen the air.
Willow grinned back, glad that things between them were still okay. “Sure.”
Tara placed a carrot in her hand and guided her to stand in front of the horses. Once in this position, Willow suddenly became nervous. Sensing this, Tara placed a hand on the girl’s shoulder.
“Are you alright?”
“Uh yeah. Of c-course. I just, well… I’m a little afraid of horses when it comes to their mouths… and teeth. Like, what if Charlie decides at the last minute that the carrot’s not enough and he wants a nice chunk of hand or arm as well?” Willow smiled sheepishly, knowing she was being excessive.
Tara just laughed at her cute babbling.
“As far as I know, horses don’t really like hand or arm that much. Especially Charlie, he would never bite you. There’s no need to be scared Willow.” At this, Tara gently caressed Willow’s back, trying to soothe her nerves.

The soft touch made Willow shiver slightly and close her eyes. The air was once again thick with unspoken words. Tara slowly moved the hand that Willow was holding the carrot with towards Charlie’s mouth. The girl’s eyes snapped open at the tickling sensation on her palm. She saw that Charlie was eating the carrot from her own hand and it wasn’t hurting at all. She smiled back at Tara and as they locked eyes, the desire to kiss the blonde became overwhelming for Willow. She unconsciously let her head fall towards Tara’s, their lips growing closer by the second.

Tara also inadvertently allowed gravity to move her face into Willow’s. She could feel the girl’s breath on her lips and just as their mouths were about to meet, Phoenix let out a loud neigh. They sprung apart, breathing heavily at the near encounter. Lost for words, Willow began to giggle. The intensity of their situation was becoming difficult to bear and the laughter seemed to calm her tension. Tara joined in to the playful giggling, smiling uncontrollably at her own daring.

****

With their near kiss encounter clawing at her mind, Willow absently allowed her horse to follow Tara’s back home. The trip seemed to take only minutes and Willow was surprised to soon find herself in the stable, her mind still back at the lake. “Are you okay Willow?” Tara queried as she looked up at the red head atop her horse. “Hmm? Oh, yeah. I’m fine” Willow replied, dismounting at once. The girls hastily washed and fed the horses, getting ready to settle down for the night. They headed in to make tea before the men returned home but when Tara was half way through the preparations, Willow noticed that they weren’t out in the field. “Tara, where’s your father and brother?” Placing a pan on the stove, the blonde joined Willow at the window. Tara searched meticulously with her eyes, scanning the fields and even out the back. It was then she noticed the cart missing. “It appears that they aren’t back from town yet.” She noted curiously. “Now that I think of it, I did not see the cart horses on our way past the outer field.”

When dinner was ready and Tara’s family still had not returned, the girl started to worry. Willow did all she could to quell Tara’s growing fears about their safety but nothing seemed to calm her. Eventually Willow came up with the idea of riding over to the neighbours to see if they had heard anything. They headed outside to make their way to the stables but they hardly got out the gate before a strong built, stocky man was seen walking up the path. “Are you Tara Maclay?” he asked upon reaching them.
“Indeed I am. Have you news from my father?” She returned quickly. “Yes ma’am I do. I regret to inform you that a storm is brewing over town and it is impossible for your father and brother to make it across the lake. It is said to be heading over this way soon, set to hit by nightfall. If I were you I’d head home and stay safely inside until it’s over.”
“Uh… okay thank you.” Willow stepped in. “Good evening.” He said politely, bowing his head a fraction and turning on his heel to leave.

The girls stood in silence for a while before Willow lead them back inside. “Has this happened before Tara?” She asked curiously. “Yes… just once.” The blonde replied slowly. “Tara?” Willow pressed gently. ”My father took my mother into town once and they almost drowned trying to get back across that river to my brother and I. It was horrible… but I’m glad to see that he has learnt from his mistakes.” She whispered. “How long until they return?” Willow questioned. “Last time it was three days before the flood went down enough for them to travel across.” Tara sighed. “Three days?” Willow blurted out. “Do you think it will be that long this time?” The blonde’s brow creased as she pondered the idea. ”I do not know…Let us just continue with the days as normal and await their return.” Willow could tell the girl was stressed and suggested that maybe they do something to take her mind off of the situation.

By night the storm had hit, shaking the house and rattling the stable roofs. Tara had begun to settle a bit with the knowledge that her family was okay and the two girls were soon changing into their nightgowns and climbing into Tara’s father’s bed for the night. It seemed that whenever her father was out Tara and her brother were allowed to sleep in their fathers bed as it was bigger and much softer, made partly of wool and feathers. It wasn’t often that the girl had this opportunity as her father would only be out for the night maybe three times a year and generally on those occasions, her brother got to use the bed, not her.

They lay beneath the covers and talked for a while about their day and what tomorrow would bring. Tara suggested that they go for another ride as she had something she wished to show Willow. Hesitantly, Willow agreed, the thought of being back atop Charlie making her stomach churn slightly. Silence followed their decision and Willow decided to try and get some sleep, the roaring storm outside lulling her into a state of total relaxation. The redhead had always loved storms. Beside her, but further away that normal due to the size of the bed, Tara tossed and turned uneasily. “Are you okay Tara?” Willow turned to face the girl. “Yes. I am fine. I just get scared in storms…e-ever since Mrs Winters had her roof stripped away by a gust of wind and all the rain fell into her house.” Tara stated innocently, like a small child afraid of a monster in her wardrobe. “Oh, Tara. Don’t worry. Your house is stronger than that.” Willow reassured the blonde, reaching out her hand “And you have me here.” She smiled warmly.
At that Tara smiled back and to the redhead’s amazement the girl moved closer, her face right in front of Willow’s. “I am not used to you being so far away Willow.” She whispered softly.

“I’m here.” Willow replied nervously although her voice was barely audible. “Is this close enough?” She asked, moving forward a tiny bit so that their feet were pressing together. Willow felt the girl’s breathing increase against her face and her heart sped up. Whoa… wait a minute…What’s going on? Willow jolted as Tara’s hand caressed her hip, resting there a while before sliding slowly down to hold her hand. The girls had maintained eye contact the whole time and finally the intensity was too much for Willow. Her eyes fell to Tara’s lips. She couldn’t take it anymore. She pulled off the pillows slightly, leaned over and pressed her lips firmly against the blondes.

****

[Zampsa1975]

Wow... I hope Tara doesn't freak out too much...

[masterjendu]

Hello Justified,
I love how nature has conspired to get our two girls completely alone together. Vulnerable Tara and protective Willow are super cute together. I hope noboby freaks out about the impending kiss. The tension from the earlier swim is absolutely palpable, so I hope they are able to enjoy each other while they can.

Thank you for continuing this story! It has a wonderful fairy tale feel about it.

[Lifty]

Hey Justified!
It's been a while, hope everything's well. I actually read the whole story before i realised that you had written it, and thought it was amazing. So as you can imagine, i was even more excited when I saw you were the author!
It's a great story by the way. Very light hearted, and i like where it is heading. You've left me on the edge with that kiss though! I hope all goes well for our two favourite characters!
I am writing a story at the moment, although it is more dark and gloomy than yours, but i might send you what I have written, when I'm happy with it:)
Can't wait for the next update!
hope you're well!
Lifty