Fic: Pathways and Patterns (Sequel to This Look of Love)

[LadyCallie]

Just reserving my spot as first commenter.





Comments later.







Okay, it's later!

First I have to say thank you for not having Abbey taken away again. The moment I thought she was gone I just about lost it... it's been a really bad night...simply put parents suck and I miss my closet alot!!!



Poor Brenda, I feel so sorry for her. She's just been beaten into the dirt so much she doesn't kow what to do. It was Tara's reaction that really blasted my mind though. She's just so numb.... I think going home is a very good idea. I'm all fro running away from your problems- one of the reasons I didn't come out to my parents for over 6 months!!!



Anyway.....I'm headed to bed.....thank you Osiris.

-LC

~*~

RealLiveTara is my RealLiveGirlfriend! *swoons*

"It doesn't have to be a really frenchish french, I just wanna feel your tongue."- my girlfriend last night.

"I don't wanna come out of the closet. All my clothes are in there!" -Me

Edited by: LadyCallie at: 1/1/03 12:29:36 am

[Lael]

OMG... Anya is really going to want to pummel Brenda now!



Great update, Urn! As always.

[LeatherQueen]

Urn! Um... I sooo didn't know that the computer was logged on under Tamara's name, so that feedback above from Lael? That was me.



heh... but anyway, it gives me a chance to just give you more feedback. And it was a great chapter... Tara and Willow are so grounding for each other. Their love is so very evident when they are comforting one another. Lovely chapter.



ps: And cool! I just gave you my 1200th post! Yay!



pps: PANTS!!!

"We've got the only librarian who can rip off your arm with his leg. People respect that." - Terry Pratchett

Edited by: LeatherQueen at: 1/1/03 1:47:00 am

[Grimlock72]

Update... update... update



I'm all for vengance on Donnie. I do understand Willow not wanting Tara to go that route, esp. because Tara would hate herself later on. Poor Tara, no wonder she was asking herself who she is with such familly Way to much to handle for her in one day, she definitly needs rest (preferably with Willow close by ).



I'm not entirely sure what Willow wants to accomplish when she tells Tara to forgive Donnie his hate. Sure she shouldn't hate him for the rest of her life, that would be a waste. But she's damn well entitled to hating him right now because he tried to take her wife and child away. Keeping that bottled up inside wont do any good, so why not say it ? Then again, Willow didn't exactly prepare for this so I can't blame her for trying to protect Tara.



Add to that, Tara hearing Donnie killed Beth and it's no wonder she's moving like a robot. I can wholly imagine she wants to run away from it all as fast as possible. Hmm.. thinking about how Tara grew up in that town and with Donnie as her brother makes me sad, can't have been much of a happy childhood



I do agree it's not their job to punish Donnie. Only because if either of them did they would have to life with that for the rest of their lives. Donnie ain't worth that.



Now if Anya and Donnie end up in a locked room together, I *might* loose the key... which would be real shame of course : -->



At least Tara got smart and decided to leave town as soon as possible, good thing that. Once back home make sure that Donnie is locked up for life, don't want him out of prison ever... to dangerous.



Why on earth would Brenda want to leave that hotelroom ? To run to Donnie, seems a bit odd... to stop him from hurting anybody else ? If so, why take Patrick with her ?? Hmm... who's to say she left of her own free will, though if Donnie was there he would have done something to Abbey just out of spite anyway.



I could see that coming the moment they left Dawn to guard the kids (curious that Willow or Tara would leave Abbey in someone else's care at this time). Dawn can't guard anyone, how would she protect them against anything ?? Dumb move, very dumb. It doesn't matter much though, they can still leave town... all scoobies are present. If Brenda does not want to leave thats fine by me.



Ah well, thanx for the update and a happy newyear



Grimmy

"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

[littlecrazy80]

Great update!

I really thought Abbey was kidnapped. Again!!

Going home was the best idea Tara could have.



*lil´c*



Unter den Blinden ist der Einäugige König.

[BFR from Paris]

What is wrong with these people?! Kidnapping little children!



And Tara... poor thing



Thanks for the update, Urnie! Happy new Year!

[SilverWingedNemesis]

OH GOOD GRAVY!!



Man.. what's Brenda's deal? I honestly can't figure it out! She's got to be nuts...lol



...This update was great. I really loved the interaction between Willow and Tara. You really brought out Tara's pain and Willow's love to help her through it all.



I can't wait for more.



~NICK~

[barnabasvamp]

Woo Hoo!! Update Thanks Urn, happy New Year!



And excellent it was. I'm still trying to figure out just what Brenda is trying to do.



You describe Tara's feelings so well, and the need to leave as soon as possible, totally understandable.

BV

"In front of total strangers won't you kiss me, Flowers for no reason but you miss me - OOH, I wanna be in love"

Melissa Etheridge-Skin

[deixs]

update



That was fantastic! I wonder what happens next...



Stef

[RaiStarr]

Please Please Please let Anya and Buffy beat Donnie up. I don't know what to think of Brenda right now. I mean she only hit Dawn so that's ok, right? I think I'm ready for things to get nice and fluffy again soon.



Great update!



Rai

[Lonewolf22]

Urn of Osiris: Great update, I really liked the talk that Willow and Tara had in their room, Tara needs to understand that this is not her fault by any means, she is NOT responsible for what her sick, twisted, waste of a human being brother does, and I agree with RaiStarr, please let Anya and Buffy beat the hell out of Donnie. I keep wondering what is up with Brenda, why would she hit Dawn and run away. I can't wait to read more.



Lonewolf

[samiamiguess]

Sorry its taken so long to post feedback Urn, having trouble catching up after the holidays. But thanks for the lovely long update for me to get my teeth stuck into.



Personally I loved the real reactions you portrayed here. Tara ashamed, frustrated and scared and Willow so supportive and hell bent on making Tara see that she still has what is important to her, her family. Its good to see how Willow is able to calm Tara here. We often see how Tara is able to quiet Willow's mind but its lovely to see it being reciprocated here.



Great stuff, intrigued what is going on with Brenda, is she just scared that Donnie may come after her too if he is capable of killing Beth? I guess I'll see!



Thanks

Sonya

[sheila wt]

Oh my... wonderful update!



At the end, when they found the door open, I was like "NOOOOOOO!!!! ABE!!!!!!!" Just couldn't stand the though of that piece of shit getting Abigail again...



Poor Tara, it has to be so hard for her not to blame herself... I know I would... At times like that, emotions are speaking much louder than reason.



And Willow, wow! What else to say about the way she's handling the situation? She just rocks beyond limits! I'm amazed with the way you're writing her. It's the real strong Willow, the woman who can break and need help and support but, at the same time, the rock always on her lover's side, ready to protect, to support, to love Tara in ways that we very seldom see in this world.



That's the Willow I like.

--------------------------
"She had tasted Willow on her tongue, and she had worn Willow on her skin. There wasn't a shower in the world that could have washed that away." (Terra Firma, by Tulipp)

[Vampivy]

**Creeps in slowly** I’m such a big meanie not leaving feedback.



I’m all caught up now and can I say you continue to leave me all astonished. By the way, what great feedback “Grimmy” writes. I wish I could be as incisive with mine. (Hello by the way Grimmy)



Urn, Seems Donnie has committed a big no, no with Beth. Can’t say I’m too sad about it but at least Donnie **crosses her fingers** can go away for a long, long time. But damn there’s still that whole him getting caught first and then being properly locked away for good.

Oh Brenda, what can I say that won’t sound so… Oh for the love of Jebus! I’m left speechless at this woman's stupidity. That’s if she left on her own free will, and with Patrick! **Grrh…** If she was taken, then ok that’s different. I really hope there fine. Guess we’ll see.



I loved the way Willow and Tara’s love keeps shinning thru. Too see Tara on the verge of letting her anger/hate for Donnie out and Willow putting a stop to it made me feel kinda bad for Tara. I have to agree with “Grimmy” on this one. It couldn’t possibly hurt to let her express that even if it’s briefly.

Hate is a powerful emotion and it could drain you and swallow you whole. I just wish that after all Tara has been through, that she was allowed to hate without any consequences. But who are we kidding. Hate is too powerful of an emotion and nothing good comes from it. Hey tell you what. How bout’ I hate him (Donnie) for her. Just a little bit. You make it so easy the way you write him. Can’t wait to see what happens next.

Poor Dawnie getting hit on the nugget . Good thing she’s got a hard head. Really glad Abbey’s safe. And finally Anya, her enthusiasm, wow cant help but love her.



Must stop babbling now and say Grasias.



Patty

[Cindipitude]

oh good lord......

Could someone PLEASE tie Brenda's shoelaces together at least?

You'd think Anya would be scared of her considering she darts off like a bunny all the time.

At least this time she took Patrick...but then again thats not looking like such a good thing either.

Poor Dawn getting hit over the head...and Willow and Tara are never gonna have enough alone time to recapture CBW.

*sighs*

*pulls her hat low and loads her shotgun*

OK, lets go nab Donnie...and hog tie Brenda.



Great update Urn

Looking forward to more

Cind

[Scout]

"I have struggled my entire life to not hate the way I have been hated by them."



Wow, that was a great line. One of the many things about Tara that always impresses me is how she kept herself from becoming bitter and hardened by her childhood. I can imagine it was a very difficult struggle.



This was an especially fine update. I really enjoyed the conversations between Will and Tara, and also all the action. I feel like we're moving towards an exciting ending. Looking forward to more!

[Tara22]

ok.....



so I haven't EXACTLY reviewed your update yet...... (coming!! I swear!!!)



but......I just had to come in here and plead and beg for another...



OH!! I bet you there are a MILLION kitties that want more! Let's play a game.....



if you want more say... 'oooh! ooh! me'



*nods*



more soon? puhleease?



Edited to add 'oooh! ooh! me!!!'

***

"Oh, sorry. Uhh, I forgot that that doesn't seem normal, to the rest of society. It's just, we, well, we both really like cows. Really like them. To the extent of wanting to buy one, when we're older."- The Crying Game (by vix84)

Edited by: Tara22  at: 1/13/03 6:37:10 pm

[RaiStarr]

'oooh! ooh! me!!!'

[DestruktorMel]

oooh! ooh! me!!!!



-Mel

[vix84]

oooh!!!! ooh! me!



Actually, Urnie I've just started from This Look of Love like I said I would... I'm loving it so far!



But yes... *nods seriously* I think we need an update soon, to pressure me to catch-up even more quickly!



Beautiful writing, sweetie



Glad we didn't scare you... well, not too much...

_________________


Willow laughs, kissing her. Soft and sensual. Deep love territory.
Seeing Red, Shooting Script.

[smuterball]

oooh!!ooh!ME! I just read this...it is very neato... spiffo!!

[Twiglet1]

Hey brilliant fic! I've just discovered it and it's brill. You write the characters wonderfully. I've only read the first couple capters but love it already.

oooh!!ooh!ME!

Keep up the excellent writing!

[Urn of Osiris]

Good day all.



Well I think I have finally recovered from the wild holiday season. My poor exhausted body is now dreadfully sick and it's taken most of my energy to do the day to day neccessities. I realize as I page through the feedback, that I did not wish a Happy New Year to you all. So HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!



blah blah blah I know you want an update. I promise one is coming soon. I have written it and it is now with my brilliant beta. The story is moving right along and I hope to bring it all together in the next couple of chapters. I have realized that it's become quite long. Which was never my intention. I'm thankful for all of you for hanging in there.



So as I am waiting to post I would like to thank you for feedback. Well I'll thank you for the kind feedback. Those of you that have wasted your time and energy with nastiness can just (uses foul words) off! and that's the last you'll get from me.



So back to the sweet loving kittens that so brilliantly take the time to reply...



LC............. Oh wow sounds like RL is still against you. I'm sorry to hear that. Brenda and Tara have suffered the same torture from the Maclay men. Hopefully in the next few chapters you will enjoy the power of self confidence they will discover.



Lea........... I'm not sure I could laugh any harder at that.... really. It's wonderful to know that what I see in them is the same love that you see. It's such a fantastic realtionship and I have only ever wanted to keep it alive. So thanks for the feedback and thanks for reading .....oh and thanks for #1200....heh what priviledge. Should be a drink attached to such an accomplishment. Note that for Vegas!! and no belly button shots or anything hideously kinky.... remember there are rules.



And PANTS..... I so mock you and your pants. wait... is that a skirt I see.



Grimmy......the story is finding its way to the end here so all the worries about Donnie and his punishment will be answered. You have been so patient ans insightful all the way through...thanks for reading.

Willow's goal in the last update was to protect her wife from the one fear she has....hating the way her family has hated. It was a gentle reminder that they are more powerful then the self loathing that drives Donnie to do the things that he does. He's a small man. Willow is only protecting her lover's heart. I'm all for letting out emotions but Tara has a tender heart, her wife knows that. They are a team and sometimes saying the hard truth hurts but it is also necessary.



Willow and Tara left Abbey with the entire scooby group. That was a mistake, fortunately not a costly one. So I don't consider that unrealistic even under the circumstances.



lil' c...........Thank you. Sorry for the scare, but it is drama and I'm just trying to keep it all very dramatic for you all. I think the entired crowd is ready to go home even if it has only been a few days.



Christine........ Ohh jeeze I really brought out the stress this chapter. Whoa sorry..... It appears that I have drawn a completely evil portrait of Donnie so I can now complete the story. Thanks for reading and hanging in there til the end. Well it's not over yet but we are getting closer. I think.



Nick............Well hmmm Brenda, yes there is a bit of nutty ness to her. Hopefully in the end she will figure out what's important.

I'm so excited to hear that you liked the quiet moments betweent W and T. I just though it was important for them to remember that they choose love and forgiveness over vengence. Which is the most difficult decision at times. Thanks for reading.



BV.......... WOW you are very welcome. Well Brenda is still trying to decide herself. I think in the next few chapters you will understand exactly what is happening. Tara is a survivor of a horrible childhood. I just want to show how amazing she is, to come through all of that, and still have a tender heart. Rare person.... I happen to know a few and adore them as much as I do Tara. So happy to know you liked the update.



Stef...........Ohhh so glad you liked it. Hmmm the wait to find out is almost over.



Rai...........ummm the beating up part. I hope it doesn't disappoint. You are ready for nice and fluffy? I think I am too. I might actually write an extra fluffy chapter just to overcompensate. What do you think. Will that help. Thank you so much for reading.



Lonewolf.........Thank you. I just wanted to show that even at their weakest moments they could still stay true to what they believe. Anya and Buffy beating the hellout of Donnie seems to be the battle cry. I might have to replan the next chapters. More is coming up soon.



Sonya........ohhh I will forgive you if you will forgive me. I believe I have been slower in my responses anyway. Ohh and I hope you got your teeth out.

THANK YOU for seeing so clearly what I intended with this chapter. Willow and Tara are the half that completes the other I wanted Tara at the edge of hope, the brink of giving up. I wanted Willow to know it and feel it, and be what kept Tara from becoming what she feared most, a real Maclay.





Sheila wt........I do like the cliffhangers I guess that's really hard for you all. so sorry.....For most of this fic Tara has been pushed to the edge. It's been an issue of character for me. Showing that it's her choice to be the wonderful person that she has become. That life throws obstacles at everyone and some that face the most find a stronger resove to be kind but sometimes you can't do it alone. Willow was her voice of reason in the last update. The gentle reminder of who she has chosen to be.

Thank you Thank you Thank you for loving Willow and Tara here. I adore them both so much and that the way I have written them pleases you is very exciting for me.



Patty........Thank you so much for reading and for the feedback....I'm just happy to have you reading so no sneaking is necessary. It was a busy chapter emotionally. Just gearing up for the next few chapters. Hopefully you'll enjoy what's to come. Babbling....that was not babbling you left wonderful feedback. I just loved it.



CINDI!!!!.......... the shoelaces and the bunny. Stop or I'm gonna pass out from laughing. My oxygen levels are diminished with the congestion and everything. You are the most wonderful friend..... not the best at pool but still. The most wonderful friend any person could have. Saturday was the best time and I can't wait for more chatting in Vegas. You Rock my dear!!!



Scout........ honestly it is what I admire most about Tara. It was really the point of the fic. I wanted to show the obstacles that Tara had in her past and I just wanted to show how amazing she is for being so gentle in spite of it all.



CHEL!!!!!....... Wellllll Miss Chel now look what you have done here. No review and I still get the harrassment. And the game...hmmmmm okay since I adore you so I'll overlook this. >*hugs*<



Now Rai and Mel hmmmm what's up here. Rai I can totally see you all with the bouncy and smiling.



But MEL!!!!!! You with the grin and the ooh ooh me. Not very destruktor-y of you....*cough you image cough*



Yet still I adore you both for the efforts and just for that I shall post the next update.



*shakes her head* SAL!!!!! you too......*sigh* what has she done??? I'm happy to hear you have started to read....it's become a bit long though I hope you can make it all the way through. Heh and scare me....good lord I've survived some seriously wicked chats lately. When I'm 100% I'll actually be able to understand your fabulous accent. I look forward to future chats. Welcome back...I can say without doubt you were dearly missed.



Smuterball..........Welcome welcome welcome.... it appears you've joined at the best time. Thanks for reading.



Twiglet1............. Thanks I'm so glad to hear you've discovered it and even more excited that you're enjoying the read.



Now as it has taken me most of the afternoon to write these replies. *coughchathocough* I have since received the edited update. After some finishing touches you all shall have the next chapter. Stay tuned.





So here is the next part. I hope you all enjoy.



Huge Cliffhanger warning!!!!











Chapter 33







The red nova blazed across the gravel roadbed, snapping the tall edges of the whipping sweet grass in his haste back toward the cabin. The screaming child clawing for freedom in the backseat. “Can’t you shut that kid up?” He turned stone faced toward his wife. “Teach him to behave or I will.”



“Donnie NO!” She screamed for mercy watching him raise a hand to grab for the child. “He’ll be fine. I promise he’ll stop when you let us go.”



“Let you go.” He laughed grasping his hand tightly around her throat. “Where did I just find you?”



She struggled for breath, feeling his fingers tighten. “Bus…” she gasped the words, “stop.”



“You bitch.” He screamed in her face, spraying her skin with the frustrated bursts of spit. “No body leaves me.” He pounded her against the passenger door. “Nobody leaves me.” She struck the cold steel of the door’s frame. “Nobody leaves me.” Her body fell limp in his hand. He laughed watching her unconscious form crumple in the seat. He turned toward the child behind him. “Shut up…or you’ll find yourself like your mama.”



The boy fell silent, frightened by the man’s words.



Donnie raced toward the cabin, parking sharply in the loose gravel, a cloud of dust swirling around the now still vehicle. He climbed from the car stepping through loose rocks toward the door. He noticed the dangling board hanging from its place. He raised his foot in anger knocking the wood from its hinges.



The hollowed room echoed with emptiness. He stepped inside surveying the space. “Witches…damn witches should have just finished them when I had the chance.”



He walked outside following the patterned path of the redhead and her child. The trail led to the edge of the woods. He stopped, yelling into the silent forest. “WITCHES!”





*********~~





Tara stood in the room, her warm flesh dripping with water. Abbey wrapped herself around her mother pressing the seamed edge of the towel tightly between them. Tara attempted to pull back, looking at her child. The tiny blonde tightened her grip, refusing separation.



“Will.” Tara turned, showing Abbey’s face to her wife. “Just look at her?” She felt a desperate need to see into her child’s eyes.



“Abbey look at me.” Willow slipped her hand under her daughter’s chin, tenderly forcing it from the buried security of Tara’s shoulder. The redhead released the edges of her towel, using both hands to comfort the tiny blonde. “Abbey girl…look at me. It’s okay. Everything is okay.”



Her tiny head lifted from her mother’s shoulder. She searched the faces in the room, trying to find safety in their eyes. Her arms tightened around Tara’s neck. “I wanna go home mom.” Her voice cracked with tears. “I don’t want to be here anymore.”



Tara stepped from the room, finding privacy behind their closed door. She lowered slowly to the bed, the tiny frightened child never losing hold. “Ab?” She asked for her daughter’s attention. “Abbey girl I need to talk to you. It’s just you and I. We’re safe and I’m not letting anyone get near you. So look at me little one.”



“Mommy.” Tears streamed down her pale cheeks. “Mommy I’m scared.”



The woman slipped her hands over her daughters, pulling them free from her neck. “I’m scared too. That’s why your mom is taking us home.” She paused waiting for the child to process her words. Tara felt the pace of her heart pounding against the knot of her tightly wrapped towel.



Her daughter pulled away, far enough to peer into her mother’s eyes. “We’re gonna go home?”



Tara smiled at the peace in her daughter’s eyes. “Yes sweet girl. We’re going home…to comfy beds and warm cuddly couches.”



Abbey squeezed tightly, pulling away to look again at her mother. “And squeaky porch swings?”



“Oh yes, especially squeaky porch swings.” She winked.



Abbey’s arms dropped into her lap. Her eyes widened with excitement. She hopped to the floor spinning in circles. “When mommy?”



“Today Abbey.” She delighted at the bouncing child. “Mom packed for us and as soon as we get dressed we’ll go. Okay?”



“Oh yes Mommy it’s the ok-est ok ever.”



Tara moved to the bed, quickly pulling on her clothes. She listened to the conversation in the other room.



Willow stood among the scoobies, dripping with water still wrapped in her bath towel, her heart racing; the pounding force driving her further from composure. “What the hell are you thinking?”



“HEY!” Anya stepped in front of the others. “We were loading the car. Who knew she’d freak out,”



“Goddess you guys, it’s the only thing that woman ever does.” Willow adjusted the towel tightening it around her chest, her finger pointing like a dagger at the vacant space on the floor.



“Look Will. We went to put the bags in the car.” Xander moved toward the redhead. “We weren’t gone that long.”



Dawn stood from the floor, holding her hand over the fast growing lump. She staggered, quickly finding balance against the slayer’s arms. “It’s my fault. I just figured she was out of it.”



“Well she wasn’t. Was she?” Willow turned toward her room. “You all took chances with her safety.” She threw her hand toward the door, pointing at the child behind it.



“Settle down Will.” Buffy held her sister, supporting her fragile form. “Dawn is the only one that’s hurting right now.”



“Settle down.” Fire burned in the eyes of the redhead. “Are you seriously telling me to settle down? Buffy! Did you see my daughter?” She stepped toward her friend feeling the depths of anger rising in her. “When you came in here what did you see?”



Buffy turned toward her sister. “I saw Dawn, unconscious on the floor.” She turned back toward Willow, recognizing the anger burning from fear. “My sister knocked out cold.”



“Well that yes.” She caught herself, knowing she had completely ignored Dawn’s injuries. “Sorry Dawnie. Are you ok?”



“Yea.”



“Good.” The redhead pulled the slipping towel. “I’m going to put some clothes on. When I get back we’re leaving.”



“What about the runaway?” Anya snapped, peeking to be certain Tara couldn’t hear. “What are we going to do about her.”



Xander shrugged.



The redhead turned sharply before opening the door. “As far as I’m concerned.” She looked at the door, knowing her next words would cut her lover’s heart. “She’s on her own.”



Buffy looked at her friend. “What about Patrick?”



Willow dropped her forehead to the door, shaking it in frustration. “I have to protect my baby, and my wife. They have to come first.” Fear grew at the thought of the helpless boy in the hands of the monster he only knew as daddy. “Please Buffy…if there is something we can do on the way out of this place, we’ll do it. I’m telling you all right now…” she turned to face her friends, “Don’t ask anything of Tara.”



Dawn rubbed the back of her head. “Are you seriously going to let Brenda go home to that idiot and not do a thing?”



Exhausted, the redhead turned against the door feeling the cold steel pressing to her damp shoulders. “I can’t Dawnie. She beat you over the head, took her son and ran off to who knows where.” She paused, sighing her frustration. “You’re all packed.” They nodded. “Good! We’ll meet you at the police station. Dawn you should report her hitting you and make sure they look for her.” She turned opening the door. “Maybe the cops will find her before he does.” She stepped inside to meet her wife and daughter.



Anya snickered. “The only way to keep that stupid woman in one place…” She smirked at the slayer, “would be to tie her damn feet together.”



Shocked, Xander looked at his wife. “ANYA!”



“Damn it Xander.” She glared stepping away from the slayer and her sister. “Every time we turn around that woman is running off. It’s not like I wanna lasso her like a steer and tie her up. I just wanted to string her shoelaces together.” She turned away walking toward the door. “I’ll be in the car. I’m suddenly finding the space of this room restrictive and confining.”



“Ahn.” He combed his fingers through his hair in frustration. “Wait.” He followed quickly behind chasing her to the car. “Anya don’t go alone.”



Buffy walked to the door, peeking out to watch Xander chase after his wife. She looked at her weakened sister. “Do you want me to help you?” She stepped forward.



Dawn held up her hand keeping the slayer at arms length. “I’m fine Buffy really. Let’s just go.”



The slayer moved through the room checking for personal belongings. She flipped the blanket over the bed crouching down to look beneath it. She noticed a small scrap of paper on the floor. “What’s this?” She picked it up flipping it between her fingers.



Dawn walked over to her sister. “Looks like an address.” She walked toward the door. “Show it to Tara, I’m going to get some ice.”



Buffy tucked the paper into her pocket. “I’m going with you.” She cleared the room following her sister down the hall.



Abigail leaned against the warm porcelain of the bathtub, trailing her finger against the floating plastic cup. She plopped her treasured rock collection in and out trying to sink it to the bottom.



Tara combed slowly through her hair, watching her daughter in the mirror’s reflection. She stopped, mesmerized by the simplicity of her child’s amusement.



Abbey felt the comforting stare, never looking up from her fun. “Wanna come and play with me mommy? I have a lot of rocks.” She raked her fingers across the floor of the tub plopping the rocks slowly into the fast sinking cup.



“Not right now little one, Mommy needs to finish getting dressed and you should do the same. So scoop them up and wash up. Okay?”



“Right now?” She pouted, shifting her hand over the top of the cup. The rocks fell jagged against her palm as the water trailed through her fingers, filtering out into the tub.



“Yes right now.” She turned toward her child. “Would you like some help?”



“No Mommy I can do it. I’m a big girl.” She placed the cup on the ledge of the tub, leaving pools of water flooding over the edge onto the floor.



Willow stepped into the room watching the trail run down the pale porcelain. “Abbey, try to keep the water in the tub.” She pulled the towel from her body fanning it out onto the floor. Tara stared at her lover, captivated by the perfect form. Her heart raced, excited by the vision. The redhead caught the glance out of the corner of her eye. “Like what you see?”



A soft smile pressed from the blonde’s cheek. “Always...” She reached forward tracing her finger against her lover’s pale soft shoulder. Her hand slipped across the edge of her back lingering down the curve of her hip. She pulled the red head in tightly against her body. “and forever.”



Willow closed her eyes feeling the sensation of her touch. “Mmmm…I like that.”



“Are you about ready?” She kissed her wife tenderly. “We should get going.”



“Well aside from the obvious undresseyness I’m very ready.” She pulled from the embrace, moving out of the bathroom. “Can I ask you something baby?”



Tara stepped through the door, leaning against the wall. She watched her Ladylove slip into the pale red dress. “Ask away sweetie.”



She smiled, turning toward her wife. She stepped closer, slipping her feet into the soft comfort of her shoes. “I was wondering.” She held out her hands, leading the blonde to sit beside her on the bed. “We’re leaving, and everything and I know that this has been very hard for you and I wanted to know if you wanted to stop on the way out of town and, ya know, see your mom one more time?”



Tara nodded, smiling at her wife. “I really would like to, just one more time. This may be the last time I see her for awhile.”



“Good then it’s decided. We take care of everything at the police station and then we go see your mom.” She leaned forward, tying the laces on her boots.



“Mommy.” Abbey yelled from the bathroom. “I’m finished. Can you come help me out of the tub?”



The two women laughed at the independence of their child. Tara kissed her wife walking back into the bathroom. “Thanks Will.”



The redhead smiled, folding her dirty clothes into the zippered edge of their suitcase. She pulled the phone from the table, she closed her eyes attempting to remember the phone number. She dialed quickly, watching for her wife to return. Quietly, she talked with the man on the other end. “How did you do?” She whispered. Her eyes darted back toward the door nervously watching for the blonde. “Good. I appreciate everything you’ve done and I can’t thank you enough for the added effort.” She quickly hit the end button on the phone seconds before her wife and child entered the room.



“I’m ready to go Mom.” Abbey jumped into her mother’s arms. “Can we go?”



Tara folded the rest of their clothes into the suitcase. “We’re all set.” She noticed the strongbox tucked under the science bag. Her hand trailed across anticipating one last moment of saying goodbye.



Willow watched, noticing her wife’s lingering hesitation. “You ok baby?”



Tara turned slowly. “Um…I am.” She smiled. “Let’s take care of this and go home.”



“Home would be good.”



Willow carried her daughter out of the room; Tara followed pulling the bags behind her, the strongbox tucked under her arm.



They loaded the Jeep, Strapping Abbey tightly in the back seat. Willow lingered around the back of the vehicle, taking in the tranquil glow of the sun on her lover’s face. “Baby?” She waited for her wife to respond.



The blonde raised her head, staring at her lover’s smile. “Yes Sweetie?”



“Are you sure you’re ready to say goodbye?” Willow moved alongside her wife clinging briefly to the rounded edge of the truck. “Are you sure?” Her hand slipped around the blonde’s waist, finding comfort in its familiar location. “Because if you aren’t surely sure, we can wait.” Her free hand lifted without hesitation, swiping the stray blonde wisps behind her ear.



“Will…” Her cheek lifted into a loving half smile. “It’s been long enough. We’ve given up enough. I’m ready to be with you…” Her eyes trailed into the back of the truck peering through to their child. “She’s ready to go home. To our home.” She turned back, feeling the soft sweet lips of her lover pressing against her own.



Abbey turned to see the women, smiling at their display of love. “When you are done kissing, can we be ready to go?” Her tiny hand pulled on the back of the seat, stretching around to watch the lovers. “Mommy…” She giggled at the blonde. “Mom…” she watched them slowly separate, their eyes fluttering with the euphoric haze of tenderness. Their lips touched again, over and over tender soft touches to swollen flesh.



Tara hesitated, hearing the child’s whimper. Her hand touched the rosy skin of her lover’s cheek. Tenderly her fingers curled stroking the blazing flesh. “We should…” She nodded toward the driver’s seat. “You know…” She nodded again. “Go.”



Willow smiled, closing her eyes to the sensation of her soul mate’s lingering touch. “You drive?”



Tara nodded taking the keys from her wife’s hands.



Willow stood hazy eyed, watching Tara move to the front of the truck. She caught herself staring at the gentle form before her. ‘I love you Tara.”



The blonde turned toward her wife. “I love you too.” She winked. “Now get into the truck.”



The redhead followed opening the door for her wife. Abbey groaned her frustration as the lover’s kissed once more. “Are we ready?”



Willow leaned over the door, peeking in to see her daughter’s sour face. “As soon as I’m done kissing your mommy.”



Abigail smiled. “Can you just be kissing her now?”



The three giggled at the suggestion. Willow helped her wife into the seat, pulling the belt slowly across her lap. Her hands trailed slowly across the blonde’s chest. She leaned in leaving a long lingering kiss on her wife’s lips. The redhead turned toward her daughter. “Now we can go.”



Abbey smiled, opening the cover of her notebook. She started to draw across the pages, looking up at her mother. “Why did Patrick’s mommy take him away?”



Tara turned in her seat, answering honestly. “I’m not sure sweetie. I think she’s afraid.”



Abbey gave her most innocent stare. “Of us?”



Tara gave a consoling smile. “Of a lot of things Abbey girl. I’m pretty sure she is not afraid of us.”



Willow climbed into the passenger side of the truck. “What’s up? Why so serious?”



The blonde explained. “Your daughter is wondering why Brenda took Patrick away.”



The redhead echoed her wife’s explanation. “She’s scared.”



“Well mommy already told me that. Did you practice what you were gonna tell me?” She giggled at her parent’s like mindedness.



The women laughed at their daughter’s observation. Willow answered again. “Abbey… I promise we will find out where they are. Okay?”



“Okay mom, but it’s a promise right?” She dropped her head back to the pages in her lap.



“Yes Abigail.” The two women answered in unison.



“Good! So then it’s time to go home?” She colored in the pages of her book.



“After a few stops we’ll be on our way to the airport.” The redhead strapped the belt across her shoulder, smiling at her wife. “Home Baby!”



“Sounds perfect.” Tara started the jeep, pulling out of the parking lot headed toward the police station.



The drive was short. The tiny blonde colored wildly across the pages making beautiful images of trees and caves. Tara parked in the police station lot, noticing Anya pacing wildly back and forth. The redhead waited with her daughter.



Tara walked slowly toward the fidgety blonde. Anya noticed the approach not giving the blonde Wicca a chance to ask. “Tara, you’re just in time, that brother of yours…he’s gone and killed Beth and the cops are pretty sure that he’s taken Patrick and Brenda too.”



Tara stopped cold, terrified by the information. Her hand stretched toward the blonde. “Anya…are you sure?”



“Oh I’m positive. My blood’s about to burst through these flimsy human veins.” She wrenched her fingers, twisting them wildly together. “I’ve seen evil in my day.” She rambled wildly. “Don’t you forget it missy. I’ve seen just about every demon possible and I’ve never seen such a waste of human existence.” She tilted her head recognizing Tara’s weakening knees. “Hey! Hey! You aren’t gonna take a header like the fainter are you?”



Tara leaned against the wall for support, calling out to her wife in her mind. “Willow come now!”



The redhead unfastened the seat belt reaching quickly to unbuckle her child. “Tara what is it?”



“It’s true. What he did to Beth. He has Patrick and Brenda too.” Tara took in a shallow breath gasping for consciousness.



Willow quickly moved to her lover’s side, their tiny child still grappling around her neck. “Let’s go inside and report the kidnapping.”



“You go in I’ll be right there.” The blonde wicca stood strong against the wall. “I’m right behind you.



Willow entered slowly watching her wife over her shoulder, knowing they were but a whisper apart. “You’re right behind me?”



“I am… I am… promise. I’m not going anywhere.” Tara gave a soft wink watching the two enter the police station.



Willow stared across the counter at the small town officers. They approached her asking for details about her presence. She began to explain the events of the evening before in slow detail. The officers stared in shock as the story unfolded. Abbey winced as she explained her trip through the small window, rescuing them from the entrapment.



The grey haired officer handed her a sheet of paper asking for a description of the kidnapper. Willow explained that it was Donnie Maclay, the officer stepped back from them both.



“We’re already looking for him.” His eyes sparked with realization as he put together exactly who was standing before him. “You’re the one with Tara Maclay aren’t ya?”



“I’m her wife.” Willow answered sharply, feeling the need to defend herself. “And it’s Maclay -Rosenburg.”



“Be careful there young gal.” He pressed his hand flat to against the counter. “The folks in this town don’t recognize your kind.”



“Our kind?” She questioned. “What exactly is our kind?”



“You and Tara…you may be married in the town you come from but here we don’t go for that kinda living.”



Willow stepped closer to the man, feeling the arms of her daughter tightening around her neck. “I’m not here to debate my lifestyle Officer…” She blinked hard focusing on the name across his chest. “McCollum…I’m here to report a crime and to make sure that my family is protected.”



She felt a calming presence approach. Her wife slipped in quietly behind them.



“Mac…How are you?” Tara stretched her hand out toward the officer, watching his frown break as she reached to him. “It’s been a long time.”



He grasped her hand, giving it a firm shake. “Long time Tara.” He stated quietly. “I see you haven’t changed.” His eyes drifted toward the redhead and the child.



“Oh I’ve changed.” She squeezed his hand tightly, pulling his attention back to her. “I’m here about my brother.” She eyed him directly, never breaking contact with his questioning glare.



“I hear he’s been busy.” He shook his head pulling his hand from her grip. “We’ll type up a complaint and the man gave us his note.”



Tara stared with confusion at her wife. “The man?”



The officer stared down at his notes. “Harris, Xander Harris.” He read from the statement. “It’s been retained by us.” He showed her the evidence bags, having tagged the tattered fabric and scribbled message. “We’ll type it all up and have you read it over and sign it.”



Tara slipped her hand against the warmth of her lover’s spindly palm, the touch soothing her tense form. “Let’s sit.”



They moved together toward the weathered wooden bench, clinging tightly to each other. The redhead sat back against the hard surface feeling her child’s arms loosen to straddle her lap. Tara leaned against her lover, resting her head against the strong shoulder.



The tiny blonde broke the awkward silence. “Are we almost ready to be going home?”



“Yes Ab.” The redhead pressed a tender kiss to her daughter’s cheek. “Pretty soon baby girl.”



They waited together, for a short time, watching the hustle of officers come and go. Tara rested quietly clearing her mind of the wandering anxiety.



“Tara?” Officer McCollum called to the blonde. “If you all want to come and take a look at this I think we can get you all on your way.” His casual behavior, catching the redhead off balance.



Willow shrugged gently, waking her lover. “Baby…” She waited for a response. “Tara baby. Let’s finish this up.”



They read through the documents officially reporting the events of the crime. After a short pause they walked exhausted from the building.



“You ready to say goodbye?” She held her hand to her lover.



The blonde grasped it tightly. “I am.”



They walked slowly to the jeep noticing the hovering group of scoobies lingering against the vehicle.



“You all set?” Xander stepped forward toward his best friend.



“We’re good. All kinds of good.” Her eyes lingered on the sight of her wife. “Ready to go home.”



“We’ll follow you to the airport and see you off.” Buffy slipped her hand around her tired sister, pulling their bodies together for support. Dawn’s head flopped over onto her shoulder.



“We’re going to stop and see Tara’s mom first. Why don’t you go grab some lunch and we’ll meet you back in town here when we’re done.” Willow motioned to the group pointing them toward the diner across the street.



“I’m thinking that plan sucks!” Anya snapped. “Have we not learned anything yet?”



“It’s fine Anya.” Tara shook her head. “Too many people are looking for them. We’ll be fine.”



They stared at the blonde, knowing she needed privacy at the cemetery, but still wanting to stay together as a group.



“We’ll grab some sandwiches to go. Then we’re meeting you there.” The slayer made the final decision, sending Xander and his wife into the restaurant to order food.



Willow and Tara climbed into the truck strapping their daughter safely into the back seat. They started the slow drive to the edge of town toward the cemetery.



Willow watched her wife gradually approaching the graveside drive. Tara parked in the lot heaving a long tired sigh. She turned toward her lover. “Will you both come with me?”



“I wanna say goodbye too Mommy.” Abbey smiled.



“We’ll all go together.” The redhead kissed her wife tenderly, moving quickly out of the jeep. Abbey climbed down frolicking across the stubbled grass.



Tara watched with a smile, walking around the front of the truck to join hands with her wife. “She’ll be okay?”



“Baby…she’ll be better than okay. She has you.”



Abbey skipped ahead, pausing to study a shiny rock on the path. She squatted down reaching forward to pick it up.



Without a chance to take a breath a strong arm slipped coldly around her body. She felt the tightening grip lift her from the ground.



Tara stopped frozen in terror.



“So Sis… it comes down to this?”

Urn of Osiris

__________________**
WELCOME
...to Online Origami.


"Published electronically,
because paper should be used for folding."

Edited by: Urn of Osiris  at: 1/14/03 1:43:55 pm

[MissQuirky]

Hey Urn!!



Dammit you with yer cliffhangers - BAD URN!!! I've had to catch up a lil bit, guess you could tell that huh? The updates were great! And I was especially loving this idea of them actually getting out of that town, but all things can't go as planned so i've learned from this story. I really don't think it was time for them to leave - they still had some things that needed to be resolved! Like Donnie for one, but i think that part will soon be resolved.



I hope to God Donnie gets what he deserves and even if it isn't Anya's way with the beating and pummling and what not - the slammer is better than getting nothing at all for all his wrongs!



I can't wait 4 more!

~Ashley~

Willow: We can come by between classes. Usually I use that time to copy over my class notes with a system of different colored pens. But it's been pointed out to me that that's, you know... insane.

Tara: I said quirky.

[dekalog]

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooo. You can't do that, like that, what you did, and leave it there. It's not fair (here I sit with the grandest of pouts).



You know I was thinking that I'd like to see Anya and Buffy tag team Donnie, and then I thought no, sick a mightily pissed off red-headed witch after him, but you know, I've been thinking, I think I want Tara to give him his do - 'cause nothing beats a rightly pissed off mama bear when someone is messing with her cub .



Urn, your fic is much appreciated - thanks.

[Grimlock72]

sigh...



Of course...lets split up with a kidnapper/murderer brother running around. He surely won't bother use again..nooooo (lets not forget, the ENTIRE police force of the town is looking for him, all three officers...owwwww). For once I agree with Anya, they didn't have to walk with Tara all the way to her mother's grave of course.. but at least be around the graveyard to secure it.



So Donnie's is actually touching Abby with Tara and Willow close by. That doesn't strike me as a particulair smart plan, never heard of maternal instincts I guess. A floating pencil through the heart should work on humans too I think...hehe.... (lumping Donnie in with 'humans' here, sorry to all other humans)



Someone should explain to Donnie why some women are called 'witches', preferably with some examples. Do get Abby out of the way though... or at least make sure she doesn't see or hear anything to cause her further nightmares. (and make VERY sure she doesn't feel obligated to try and help her mommies). Put a sleeping spell on her or something like that.



Donnie is a lost cause to the world I think, gone totally over the edge. I've given up finding anything remotely logical in his behaviour . Why can't he just commit suicide all alone ? Jump in a volcano or such, I'll help him pick one for free



Gotta wonder who Willow was talking to on the phone, my guess would be a lawyer.



Grimmy

"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

Edited by: Grimlock72 at: 1/14/03 5:15:03 pm

[RaiStarr]

Well there I was all properly outraged and stuff and the board ate my post! How rude! And speaking of rude...that particular cliffhanger was just wrong! It should have had an extra special cliffhanger warning cuz I SO wasn't ready for that! Which was maybe what you were going for so BRAVO! Now, on with the major ass whooping and serious smoochies, please.



Rai

[deixs]

NOOOO!!!!!!!

Donnie this little bastartd



Stef

[Little M]

Ahhhhhhhh Donnie you



Everytimes things are starting look up, it gets all bad again



Please let it all end well

------------------

'I go online sometimes, but everyone's spelling is really bad..it's depressing' - Tara



www.amberbenson-online.cjb.net

[barnabasvamp]

Urnie!!!!!!!



I am now totally convinced you really do enjoy the cliffhangers!



Donnie, he just seems to keep coming out of nowhere, you just gotta fix his ass, K?





The girls should have listened to their daughter, she wanted outta there!



Hope we don't have to wait too long!

BV



Edited to add-OMG I'm Gay Now, wonder when that happened??

"In front of total strangers won't you kiss me, Flowers for no reason but you miss me - OOH, I wanna be in love"

Melissa Etheridge-Skin

Edited by: barnabasvamp  at: 1/15/03 4:49:19 am