The Legend of Green Eyed Red

[tarawhipped]

Title: The Legend of Green Eyed Red
Author: tarawhipped (Cameron)
Email: tarawhipped@hotmail.com
Rating: R (just to be safe)
Disclaimer: All characters are the property of Joss Whedon/Mutant Enemy
Feedback: You betcha, by golly.
Distribution: Pens, Through the Looking Glass, Mystic Muse. All others please ask first.
Summary: A redheaded stranger rides into a town full of trouble and meets a blonde barmaid. Can they save each other and the town?
Setting: AU (the Old West)[br]
Thoughts in italics[br][br][br]
Chapter 20[br][br]
Will peered around the corner of the feed store and paused for a moment before scurrying across the street, pulling Tara along by the hand.[br]
“Will, what’s this all about?”[br]
“I’ll explain everything, I promise,” the young man answered as he continued to guide them in the direction of the saloon, keeping to the back of the buildings. “But first we gotta get someplace safe.”[br]
Tara felt the exhaustion of the day’s events and struggled to keep up with the redhead, who continued to drag her through back lots, crouching low and darting his head around every few yards. Why were they skulking about like criminals? Why hadn’t they just walked down the street? And why had Darla and her goon kidnapped her?[br]
Actually, she pretty much knew the answer to the last question, as Darla had all but told her when they’d reached the whorehouse. The woman’s overly pleasant ‘welcome to your new home’ had seemed appallingly inappropriate considering the circumstances.[br]
‘Welcome to your prison’ would be more to the point, the blonde mused, shuddering at the thought. She’d long suspected that not every woman there was a willing participant, but to actually learn that fact firsthand, well…she realized that she’d been ridiculously naïve. Darla had been in business going on five years now, and Tara knew that she kept company with the Mayor and several of the town’s bigwigs. They had to know what was going on.[br]
Tara ran into Will’s back as he pulled to a stop at the fence surrounding her back yard. He climbed over, then turned and offered his arms. Tara crossed hers over her chest and looked him in the eyes.[br]
“Tell me what’s going on,” she demanded.[br]
Will’s eyes darted toward the saloon, which seemed unusually dark and quiet for the time of night. He turned back to Tara and leaned across the fence, pulling her into a kiss that left her thoroughly discombobulated. He took her hands and squeezed them tightly.[br]
“I swear, Tara, I’ll tell you everything, but right now I need you to trust me.”[br]
Tara’s concern softened her expression as she took in Will’s demeanor. He looked like a frightened rabbit cornered by wolves. She’d seen the same expression on his face that first night he’d been in town, when the Sheriff had interrogated him.[br]
“You’re in trouble, aren’t you?”[br]
“Yes,” he breathed.[br]
Tara looked him in the eyes, and though she knew on some level that she should be wary—she hardly knew him, after all—there was something in his eyes, in the way he spoke, in the way he touched her that made her set caution aside.[br]
“What can I do?”[br]
He closed his eyes then, and murmured ‘thank you’ into her hands, which he lifted to his lips to place whisper-soft kisses upon. He helped Tara over the fence, freeing the back of her dress when it became tangled in the thick shrubbery.[br]
“Go inside, find Donnie, and bring him back here. There may still be people inside, but don’t let no one else know that I’m out here. In fact, don’t let on that you know me at all, okay?”[br]
“Okay,” Tara nodded, brushing off her skirt and stepping purposefully up the path. She opened the back door and was startled to see Faith behind the bar, wiping down the surface and washing glasses while Donnie served drinks to a group of men in U.S. Cavalry uniforms, who seemed to have made themselves at home. They had pushed several tables together and were poring over a handful of maps and papers, but all eyes turned at the sound of the door creaking open.[br]
“Tara, there you are!” Donnie exclaimed, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness. “Did you have a nice visit with Anya?”[br]
Tara caught his raised eyebrows silently pleading for her to play along. Over his shoulder she could see a similar expression on Faith’s face.[br]
“I did, Donnie, thank you. She sends her regards.”[br]
“You live here, ma’am?” one of the men asked, and Tara surmised from the number of gold bars on his sleeves that he was in charge.[br]
“My sister, Tara,” Donnie explained before she could speak. He turned to her and continued, “These here men are trackin’ the Red Bandit.”[br]
“Lieutenant Finn,” the officer introduced himself with a stiff bow. “Have you seen this man?” he asked, holding out a wanted poster.[br]
Tara took the paper in trembling hands and sucked in a breath. She looked up at Donnie, who nodded slightly.[br]
“I…I’m not certain. There was a young man—”[br]
“That Smith feller, right?” Donnie interjected. “That’s what I told ‘em. Saw him playin’ cards with Warren, but he must’ve run off after the fight started.”[br]
“Mister Maclay, if you please,” Lieutenant Finn snapped. “Miss Maclay, if you have any information regarding the whereabouts of this man, I implore you to tell us. Despite his youth, he is a dangerous criminal, I assure you.”[br]
Tara contemplated the artist’s rendering, and could see a similarity in the wild-eyed glare of the subject and Will’s own frightened countenance moments before. They were clearly one and the same, but what did it mean? Donnie did not seem at all surprised by this turn of events, and was in fact hiding the familiarity with which they were acquainted with Will Smith. Had Will told him something? Was it all a misunderstanding? Tara had always considered herself a law-abiding citizen, and the logical portion of her brain opined that she should tell the lieutenant what he wanted to know. If it was simply a case of mistaken identity it could be cleared up, with no harm done.[br]
The larger part of her mind won out. Following the recent example of her own situation and her suspicions regarding the Mayor, she knew that those in authority did not always do the right thing themselves. Will had asked her to trust him, and she was acutely aware of just how much trust he had placed in her. He’d been nothing but kind and considerate toward her, and she felt utterly safe and protected when he was around. She handed the poster back.[br]
“I’m sorry, I can’t help you.”[br]
She saw Donnie exhale deeply, and the lieutenant shook his head and turned his attention back to his men.[br]
“Miller should have the command center established in the Sheriff’s office by now, and will interrogate the prisoner once he regains consciousness. Gates, your team will cover the west side of town...I want every building searched, and every occupant questioned. The rest of you are with me, we’ll take the east side and meet back at the Sheriff’s.”[br]
The men folded up their maps and headed out the doors. Tara realized with relief that they must have already searched the saloon, since none of the men stayed behind. As soon as the doors were closed, Tara grabbed her brother’s arm.[br]
“He’s out back, come on!”[br]
Donnie pulled Tara to a stop and held her shoulders.[br]
“I’ll go get him. I want you to go over to Xander and Anya’s and wait for us there. Don’t argue with me, Tara,” he stated when she opened her mouth, ready to protest. “As soon as Warren gets a hold of one of his pals, Finn’s gonna know we been lyin’ to him. We’ll be right behind you.”[br]
Tara nodded her acquiescence. She paused at the door and looked over her shoulder, but Donnie was already gone. Faith crossed the floor and handed Tara her shawl.[br]
“It’ll be okay,” the brunette insisted.[br]
Tara hoped her friend was right, but was more than a little unnerved by how everyone seemed to know more than she. It was as though she had been thrust onto a stage in mid-act, without knowing any of her lines or even what play they were performing. Under the circumstances, there seemed to be nothing to do but improvise.[br]
I hope they know what they’re doing. I hope I know what I’m doing.[br][br][br][br]
Willow had bitten the nail on her right thumb down to the quick, and was pacing the path behind the wall in anxious impatience when she heard men’s voices from the street. Daring to look out around the side of the building, she saw a few of the cavalrymen walking down the street, and quickly ducked back out of view. Soon she heard the sound of knocking on doors coming from either direction, and surmised that they had split up to cover both sides of town. Belatedly she heard boots crunching on gravel and spun around. Donnie covered her mouth to stifle her startled yelp.[br]
“Jesus, Mary and Joseph! Don’t sneak up on a guy, Donnie.”[br]
“Sorry, Will. They’re doing a house-by-house search. I sent Tara over to Xander’s, but I don’t know how we’re gonna get you over there without bein’ seen,” Donnie said as they scampered up the path and into the saloon. Faith stood at one of the front windows, peeking through the slats of the tightly drawn shutters.[br]
“Faith? What are you doing here?” Willow asked.[br]
“And miss all the fun?” she replied with a grin. “I knew something was going to happen tonight, but this? This was more than I expected, Red—or should I say Red Bandit?”[br]
“Damn it all! Is there anyone in this town who don’t know who I am?” Willow fumed.[br]
“Well, I’m pretty sure Tara didn’t,” Faith offered. “That is, before the Lieutenant showed her your picture.”[br]
Willow cringed and raised a hand to her forehead.[br]
That’s just…great. Now they all know my secret and…wait a minute.[br]
Donnie and Faith looked at each other and back to the redhead, who had lowered her hand and was staring at Faith. Donnie scrunched up his face.[br]
“Uh, Will, why’re you eyeballin’ my girl like that?”[br]
Willow had a wicked grin on her face when she turned to Donnie.[br]
“I think I know how I’m gonna get past that posse.”[br][br][br]
TBC[br][br]

[JustSkipIt]

Hey Cam,
Awesome! How great that Will and Tara showed such trust in the other and that Tara was willing to watch the cues from Faith & Donnie and go along with it in spite of learning that her lover was a wanted criminal. I can't wait to see Willow's plan and I've got a good idea of what it's going to be.

Deb

PS - Dibs

[tazraven]

Oooh, great update! Loved this bit. For some reason it just seemed so sweet, in all the chaos, that Will did this.

He closed his eyes then, and murmured ‘thank you’ into her hands, which he lifted to his lips to place whisper-soft kisses upon.

Can't wait for the next bit, though I have a sneaking suspicion of what may happen... *cackles evilly*

~Sara

[db]

oooh!

I think *I* know how Will's going to do it too!

YAY!

...and if i am right, then what a great and imaginative way to come out to Tara as Willow too!

I love this story!


db

[Safuega]

When I read this,

If it was simply a case of mistaken identity it could be cleared up, with no harm done.

All I could think was, 'oh, no, no, bad idea' b/c as any lawyer would tell you if there is anything that needs to be cleared up with the authorities, even if you are innocent, it's best to let your lawyer do the clearing up. But this being a time before lawyers and apparently the rule of law (what with the warrantless searching of every building) I'm glad to see that Tara kept cool and realized that she should trust Will.

And when I read this,

That’s just…great. Now they all know my secret and…wait a minute.

I thought, 'um, Will, you've got two secrets.' But luckily for our dear Will, one of those secrets can completely erase the other b/c if I you allow me to run with my 'fool with a purpose' theme the last thing a fool wants is to be revealed as a fool. I may be wrong but given the setting of this story, I would guess that it would be pretty humiliating for duty man Finn to arrest Will as a woman b/c that would mean that he has been fooled by a mere woman. So, if I were Finn and a man of his times I'd let Will, now Willow, go and invent some story of how the Red Bandit escaped never to be seen again and walk away with my dignity.

And yes Cam, when I wrote the bit about a fool with a purpose I was thinking about the fool with a purpose you coughed out so gracefully.

Thanks for sharing and looking forward to more.

Safuega

[Willowtree252]

I can,t wait to see how Red is going to get out of this

[Alcy]

Hi Cam, another great chapter, one that sets up what I think will be an even greater chapter with Willow taking care of that posse!

Still, I am a little worried at what happens when Tara sees Willow again and confronts her over the little point of her hidden identity, Methinks that Tara might be a little upset that Will didnt see fit to share her identity with her. I think some sweet talking might need to follow that meeting.

Great work Cam!
Cheers
Alcy

[watty]

What I really liked was how well Will, Tara and Donnie seemed to operate as a team. There's unspoken understanding and trust here, even though as Tara thought, she hardly knew Will. And the sheriff just showed her a picture of the dread Red Bandit, who just happened to be the redhead she left outside. Must have been confusing for her. I guess sometimes a little white lie is necessary, the law can be so one track minded and blinkered. Not to say Riley was necessarily wrong, but he had rules to follow.

I think most readers have an idea what Will's plan / disguise is, but I know better by now because you have this cunning way of throwing us off-track. I don't think Will will reveal her second secret just yet. If she dresses up in Faith's clothing, it'll be as a cross-dressing man with all the awkwardness that is associated. Really great update, Cam. Easy to read, full of action and progressing us nicely in the story. Thanks for that, Cameron.
[br]

[dlline]

Wow! You sucked me in! This is the truest testimony to the quality of this story that I can think of. I tend to shy away from WIPs because my frustration level gets too high when I have to wait, but curse you, you've done it. :-) I can't wait to see what happens. I think I might have a couple of ideas where this could go, but I will leave that to you before I start spouting guesses. I'll just wait, patiently.

Secondly, I've never been a big fan of westerns, but this is so well done, as well as being hyserically funny, that I've tossed my prejudice regarding western fiction out the proverbial window. Your use of canon characters is great. I especially love Riley as a mindless soldier doof. But, wait, we've seen that before. Anyway, you do it better. Well done.

I must say, I have some pretty ridiculous pictures in my head about GER and the clothing switch (I'm a sucker for drag humor), but I'll wait and see what happens.

Keep up the good work,
Diane

[spells42]

Hi,
I'm enjoying the return of this fic, and lol at the flashes back to the 'present' - I love the interplay between W & T there. You've transposed the BtVS characters into a western perfectly, altho' no Buffy & Dawn yet? Not that I mind.

Please Cam, can I have some more?
Anne

[tarawhipped]

Chapter 20 replies

To everyone: I may be a lil’ glib in my replies, but after the next update, things are going to take a bit of a turn…a good one, eventually, but let’s just say some things are about to happen to test the relationship that’s been built up so far. So there’s a lot of stuff I don’t want to give away. Thanks for reading, as always.


JustSkipIt: Thank you Debra, and the plan is up next. I probably should have kept 20 and 21 as one long chapter, but I likes me the cliffhangers. Buwahaha…umm…no foreshadowing or anything there.[br]
tazraven: Thanks, Sara. I’m glad you liked the sweet moment, since I think I’m the one who’ll be cackling evilly after the next chapter.[br]
db: Thanks, db. I think everyone here is on to Willow’s plan. However…

what a great and imaginative way to come out to Tara as Willow too!

That is still a long way off![br]
Safuega: I love getting your legal perspective on the proceedings! There probably is a lawyer in this town, but he’s (and you know it’d be a man, considering the era) no doubt Mayor Wilkins’ personal attorney, and therefore about as scrupulous as all the other keepers of the peace in these here parts.[br]
Interesting hypothesis about Riley, too. He won’t have a chance to look like a fool just yet…or maybe the events will make him an even bigger one. I’ll let you all sort that out. Thanks![br]
Dianneswillowtree: Well, I’m glad I didn’t keep you waiting! Willow’s best plan thus far coming up next…[br]
Alcy: Thank you, and I hope you enjoy the next chapter…I had loads of fun with it! As for your speculation regarding Tara’s reaction to Willow’s identity…your assumptions are correct, but she won’t actually be finding out for awhile...for several reasons.[br]
watty: Thank you, Watty. I think the fact that Tara got to know Will pretty well before she found out ‘he’ is a wanted criminal is allowing her to give him the benefit of the doubt. She’s pretty used to the corruption of the law in Dusty Hollow, so that no doubt helps. And since Will hasn’t done anything (yet…BUWAHAHAHAHA!) to make her think badly of him, why shouldn’t she go with her gut?[br]
Your assumption regarding Willow’s plan is…interesting…yes. You’re a smart cookie, aren’t you? *stands aside as an unmarked black van squeals up to Watty. Two men in black jump out, grab a kicking and screaming Watty, throw her in the van, jump back in, and speed off in a screech of tires*[br]
dlline: Thanks Diane, and I have to answer with “same to you!” since I’ve become thoroughly engrossed by The Rosenberg Files, though I’ve been a bad slacker and not left feedback yet. I’m glad you’re enjoying the western setting, and as I’ve mentioned before, I’ve never been a big fan of the genre myself. I think I finally figured out the problem though: no lesbians. Seriously, what the fuck? I know the ratio of men to women during the gold rush was like a zillion to one, but don’t tell me that while the menfolk was off a-fightin’ and a-drinkin’ and a-whateverin,’ there weren’t a few women keeping the home fires burning together, if you know what I mean.[br]
spells42: Thanks Anne, and I’m glad you like the ‘modern day’ segments. They’re a lot of fun…and never so much as in this next part, I think. As for Buffy and Dawn, they’re around. I haven’t had a reason to include them since the barn dance for Xander and Anya’s party, but Buffy at least will show up again in the future. Not for awhile though, ‘cause the focus will be predominantly on Willow and Tara’s excellent adventure after the next chapter. Enjoy![br][br][br]

[tarawhipped]

Title: The Legend of Green Eyed Red
Author: tarawhipped (Cameron)
Email: tarawhipped@hotmail.com
Rating: R (just to be safe)
Disclaimer: All characters are the property of Joss Whedon/Mutant Enemy
Feedback: You betcha, by golly.
Distribution: Pens, Through the Looking Glass, Mystic Muse. All others please ask first.
Summary: A redheaded stranger rides into a town full of trouble and meets a blonde barmaid. Can they save each other and the town?
Setting: AU (the Old West)[br]
Thoughts in italics[br][br][br]
Chapter 21[br][br]
“More plans,” one of the girls tutted softly.[br]
“Hush,” another hissed. “I think I know what Miss Willow has in mind, and it happens to be a crackerjack plan.”[br]
“You’re darn tootin,’ missy!” the storyteller exclaimed. “Now, where was I?”[br][br]
[center]*********************[/center][br][br]
“I think I know how I’m gonna get past that posse,” Willow said. “Faith, did you talk to them? I mean, do they know who you are?”[br]
“Nope, they were too busy hauling Warren away to pay me any notice. And I was too busy trying not to laugh to offer.”[br]
“Perfect,” Willow said, backing away from the pair and pointing over her shoulder. “I just need to run upstairs right quick.”[br]
Donnie and Faith watched in confusion as the redhead raced up the stairs two at a time and went into Tara’s room. Donnie joined Faith at the window, and together they monitored the slow progression of one group of cavalry down the street. At the rate they were going, they wouldn’t get to Xander’s for a while yet, but they noted that at each building, two of the men would enter while one stood guard at the door. There was no way past without being spotted. Donnie was contemplating telling Will to just hide out upstairs when he heard the redhead descending the staircase and glanced back. What he saw made him do a double take, blink repeatedly, rub his eyes, shake his head, and finally drop his jaw in the vicinity of the floor. To his side, Faith whistled one long, low note.[br]
“W-Will?” Donnie stammered, his voice shaky.[br]
“What do you think?” Willow replied, executing a twirl that fanned out the dress she wore, her trousers visible underneath until the long skirt flowed to a stop, its hem brushing the floor. “The way I figure it, since they seen Faith in here, and if you walk me over to Xander’s—”[br]
“They’ll think it’s me,” Faith finished with a chuckle. “Oh, you’ll need a bonnet!”[br]
“Already got it,” Willow said, holding it up and pulling it down over her head so that it completely hid her hair and most of her face. She fumbled with the ribbon until Faith scoffed and took over, tying a perfect bow.[br]
Donnie continued to gape in obvious discomfort at the sight of the boy wearing his sister’s dress.[br]
“Are you sure about this, Will? I mean…it’s kinda…weird.”[br]
“Don’t be silly, Donnie,” Faith said. “Remember that acting troupe that came through town several years back? They were all men.”[br]
“Well yeah,” Donnie agreed half-heartedly. “But the ones playin’ the lady roles…you could still tell they was men. No offense, Will, but in that get-up you really look like a girl.”[br]
Willow hid her smile at the irony of the situation. In truth, Donnie’s reaction worried her. If he felt this way now, what would he think if he knew she really was a girl?[br]
Not to mention Tara…no, Willow thought to herself. They ain’t gonna know, ‘cause as soon as things are set to rights, I’d best be goin’ on my way. Better to hurt her a little now than to have her come to hate me.[br]
“Can you think of another way?” Will asked Donnie. He didn’t answer, which told her all she needed to know. “I got somethin’ that needs to be done, and it can’t wait no more. Now I can take Tara with me; I know a place a couple days ride from here where she’ll be safe from Darla and her kind. Once I take care of my business, I can come back and help you take care of yours.”[br]
“What if it’s too late by then?” Faith asked. “Once the cavalry leaves, Warren and my father are going to come after Donnie.”[br]
“So you keep ‘em here. Make somethin’ up. Tell ‘em I threatened you. Hell, tell ‘em Tara and I eloped and we’ll be back in a week’s time. They’ll stick around, believe me.”[br]
“They want you that bad?” Donnie asked, and at Willow’s nod, he took a step toward the redhead. “If you let any harm come to my sister, I’ll tell them boys ever’thing and come after you myself.”[br]
“Fair enough,” Willow replied seriously. “You think we can convince Tara to go?”[br]
“We’re gonna have to, cause her stayin’ here is not an option right now. Darla’s gonna be madder’n a mute at a hog callin’ contest once she finds out Tara’s missin,’ and next time they might do more than just take her.”[br]
Willow held Donnie’s gaze and nodded again, fully aware of what people like that were capable of. Donnie blew out a deep breath and hesitantly held out the crook of his arm. Willow placed her hand through it and Faith opened the door for them, keeping herself hidden inside.[br]
The redhead kept her face down as they traversed the street and made haste to Xander’s. The carpenter was watching for them, and after he did his own double take, he waved them around the side of the building, where Tara stood next to Will’s cart, patting Miss Horsey’s neck. She looked over the animal’s back as her brother came into view, and her eyes widened as she took in the sight of the redhead. Miss Horsey turned toward the newcomers, leaving Tara’s hand patting the air for several moments for she regained most of her senses.[br]
“W-Will?”[br]
“That’s what your brother said,” Willow chuckled, climbing into the back of the cart.[br]
Donnie hopped onto the driver’s perch and pulled Tara up. In her obvious state of fluster, she didn’t question either of them, but she shifted in her seat to continue staring at Will. Donnie shook the reins, and Miss Horsey stepped off. They had barely gone a hundred feet when the officer Donnie recognized as Gates crossed the street to halt them.[br]
“Mister Maclay? May I ask where you’re headed at this time of night?”[br]
“Just taking our hired girl home,” Donnie gestured toward the back of the cart, where Willow was curled up with her head on a sack of grain, her bonnet obscuring most of her features. “Normally she’d walk, but she was understandably shaken up about a wanted criminal on the loose.”[br]
“Very well,” Gates replied, sensing nothing out of the ordinary and waving them on.[br]
Donnie waited until they were well out of town before pulling the wagon to a stop and jumping down from his seat. He peered down the trail, and in the dim light of the cloudy moon could see no one following them.[br]
“All’s clear,” he whispered, and Willow leapt off the cart, yanking off her bonnet and tossing it into the back.[br]
“Can you get back okay?” she asked Donnie in a hushed voice. Tara had climbed down from the wagon and walked around the side, her wide eyes still focused solely on Willow as the redhead squirmed to get the dress off over her regular clothes. She finally pulled it free, folded it neatly, and placed it on the discarded bonnet.[br]
“Yeah, I’ll be fine. You know where you’re goin’?”[br]
“Uh huh, but it’s best if you don’t. Don’t worry, Donnie, I’ll keep her safe.”[br]
Willow climbed onto the driver’s perch, and with the sun behind her streaming through her brilliant red mane—which seemed to shimmer and blaze in the light—she held out her hand to Tara, who took it without question and allowed herself to be pulled up alongside her savior.[br]
“You’re coming with me,” Will stated, and Tara threw her arms around the slim, yet surprisingly strong shoulders.[br]
“Of course, my love,” Tara gushed. “If you think it best, it must be so.”[br]
They embraced, their hearts beating as one, and kissed deeply.[br][br]
[center]*********************[/center][br][br]
“Wait a minute. I thought it was night? When did the sun rise?”[br]
“Oh, um…I meant…that was…moonlight?”[br]
“You just said it was cloudy.”[br]
The storyteller blushed and looked down at her hands, suddenly wondering if telling this story was such a good idea. She’d kind of forgotten about this part ‘til now. A familiar throat cleared with a soft cough.[br]
“It’s curious,” the white-haired lady mused, drawing all eyes save two contrite green ones toward her, “that in the version of this story which I’m familiar with, this particular event did not happen like that. At all.”[br]
“It does seem a little peculiar,” one of the girls commented to a chorus of agreement. “Will you tell us your version, Miss?”[br]
“I would be happy to,” the lady replied, as the storyteller slouched down in her chair, muttering under her breath.[br][br]
[center]*********************[/center][br][br]
“Don’t worry, Donnie, I’ll keep her safe.”[br]
“Wait a minute,” Tara said, shaking her head. “Where are you going?” she asked Willow, but didn’t wait for an answer. “Keep who safe? What is going on?” she demanded, stressing each syllable.[br]
“You’re coming with me,” Will stated.[br]
“No, I’m not,” Tara answered with equal determination.[br]
“Uh...please?”[br]
“Not until one of you tells me what’s happening…not tomorrow, not ‘soon’…now.”[br]
“Tara, we don’t have time for this!” Donnie hissed, when it was obvious that Will didn’t know what to do. “Darla must’ve figured out you’re gone by now, so ‘less’n you wanna be kidnapped again, you’ll git on up there and…git!”[br]
Will took a step toward Tara, who backed up in answer.[br]
“Tara, please!” the redhead implored, taking another step forward.[br]
The blonde took another step back, and when she realized they had no intention of telling her anything, she started marching back to town. She’d taken all of seven steps when she heard them scrambling after her, and turned, assuming at least one of them had seen reason. All she saw in the darkness was the fist flying at her; all she heard was an apologetic ‘sorry’ in the instant before she blacked out.[br][br]
[center]*********************[/center][br][br]
The appalled girls began clamoring as one.[br]
“They…hit her?”[br]
“But…but she’s a girl!”[br]
“Well, so is Willow, though Tara doesn’t know that.”[br]
“It…wasn’t Willow…was it?”[br]
Each and every girl held her breath and leaned forward.[br]
“You know, I don’t recall ever hearing exactly which it was who did the deed. I’ve often wondered, but it seems that the only two people who would know for certain have managed to keep that part of the tale a secret.”[br]
The elderly woman looked pointedly at the storyteller, raising an eyebrow in silent question, but the latter playfully narrowed her eyes and shook her head.[br]
“I suppose we’ll never know.”[br][br]
[center]*********************[/center][br][br]
“She’ll never know.”[br]
“Are you sure?”[br]
“I’m sure. She didn’t see it coming.”[br]
“Then…won’t she just blame both of us?”[br]
Donnie and Willow looked worriedly at each other as they lay Tara’s inert form on the ground. Willow spread several blankets over the wagon floor, and left another one folded for a pillow, and together they lifted Tara as gently as possible onto the makeshift bed. They both hopped down and looked at the blonde, whose only movement was her chest rising and falling.[br]
“I’m just glad I won’t be around when she wakes up,” Donnie admitted with a shudder that Willow hoped was from the chill night air.[br]
“I promise I’ll never tell,” Willow said.[br]
“I promise I’ll never tell, neither,” Donnie echoed, spitting into his palm and holding out his hand.[br]
Willow repeated the gesture and they shook hands. Donnie looked over his shoulder toward Dusty Hollow, allowing Willow to scrunch up her face and hastily wipe her hand on her pants.[br]
“You’d best be on your way,” Donnie said, and with a nod, Willow took her seat. “One week, right?”[br]
“One week,” Willow confirmed. She glanced down at Tara, then turned steely eyes on the trail ahead, and snapped the reins.[br][br][br]
TBC[br][br]

[lilkitty1389]

I've just started reading your story! and i totally love it! Can't wait for another update!

[dlline]

Wow,

I seem to have gotten dibs twice today. Well, I just discovered that I type to slowly. But I was close. Yay, me. The joys of unemployment (since there are soooo many).

I love this story. That simple. Especially the two different versions... the first one just didn't sit right, so I'm glad we know the truth. I think your comments in your feedback regarding the presence of lesbians in the old west are right on the money. I would have enjoyed them more if there had been a cross-dressing redhead to root for, and not just all those guys. Ewww.

Thanks ever so much for the shout-out. That was cooool! Glad you like the story.

Keep up the great work. I'm still hanging here, waiting not-so-patiently.

Thanks again,
Diane

[morningstar]

yay!

I love the old willow and tara showing through the old legend. And how tara still tries to get willow to admit to who knocked her out.... I cant wait to see what she does to Willow when she wakes up.

[tazraven]

Woo and hoo! Great update Cam. You had me rolling in the aisles with this bit.

“It’s curious,” the white-haired lady mused, drawing all eyes save two contrite green ones toward her, “that in the version of this story which I’m familiar with, this particular event did not happen like that. At all.”

Then, of course, the patented Tara brow rise and her knowing smirk.

“You know, I don’t recall ever hearing exactly which it was who did the deed. I’ve often wondered, but it seems that the only two people who would know for certain have managed to keep that part of the tale a secret.”

You write them so well. I love every bit of this story, and I can't wait to see all revealed eventually. I love it, just that simple.

~Sara

[Willowtree252]

I love how close you have made Willow and Donnie in this story it fits so well and Willow taking care of Tara it is going to be so interesting when Willow finally comes out to Tara I cant, wait

[Chummy]

yaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhooooooooooooooo that was brilliant. can't wait for your next update i hope it going to be soon. I am realy eager to know how hit tara. keep the good work and best wishes.

[watty]

*Two men in black jump out, grab a kicking and screaming Watty, throw her in the van, jump back in, and speed off in a screech of tires*

Are you sure you want to kidnap me and land me in FBI school for the hidden (right next door to the invisible school, where Marcie went)? Are you sure you want to let lose a fully trained smart-cookie watty onto the unsuspecting world?

Hee. Back to the story. I think there are definite advantages to knowing the ending (ie they live happily ever after), it also gives me weird warm feelings to witness the banter between the two elderly ladies. Nothing escapes Miss Tara does it, not even when Miss Willow is sparing with the truth.

Willow hid her smile at the irony of the situation. In truth, Donnie’s reaction worried her. If he felt this way now, what would he think if he knew she really was a girl?

The situation is ironic, alright. Irony is ironic that way. Would have been interesting to ask if Tara was attracted to drag!Will as well as girl-pretending-to-be-guy-pretending-to-be-girl!Will. I'd wager she was, for a tiny bit, cos she couldn't take her eyes off her Will.

I chuckled when they hit Tara. No, it's not nice to hit someone, let alone someone you care for; but they didn't have much time to argue. Besides, the fantastic funny dramatic effect alone is worth it.

Cool stuff, Cam. Looking forward to more.
[br]

[EasierSaid]

Perfect. There's no other way to describe it, that was just perfect. Loved the twist with Willow going girly (and Donnie and Faith's reactions), but even more I loved the timing, the way you alternated between the narrator and the action. Really wonderful comedic timing my friend, it was just great how you alternated between Willow's idealistic, "girl-dressed-as-boy-recently-dressed-as-girl saves girl" telling and Tara's more stubborn, bull-headed, "punched-in-the-face-so-I-guess-I'm-going-unconcious" version. Special kudos on the transition back to Donnie and Willow agreeing Tara will never know who hit her - you made the conversation so wonderfully vague that not even the reader knows (I suspect you at least have an inkling...). That's just some really skillfull storytelling, my friend, and it was a pleasure to read. (The audience wondering about the sun rising was a wonderful interlude and a great way to show the holes in Willow's too-good-to-be-true story; I'm happy to admit that I also thought, "sun, what the hell, I thought it was nighttime..." - there was a long moment when I worried about my reading comprehension skills before seeing that it was just a clever plot device.)

I also loved the description of Tara petting thin air as Miss Horsey turned away. Not only was that a fantastically clear, comedic moment, but it pretty much said without saying that Tara was like a Sim with hearts shooting up out of her head at the sight of Will as a woman - pretty much her most secret dream come true. You did a great job of showing with very few words how Tara could not take her eyes off of in-a-dress-Willow, and how that will probably be something she thinks about a lot later as their relationship intensifies and inevitably gets more confusing. Even if she wasn't already enamoured (of course she was), that dress probably fanned the flames something awful.

Willow's plan sounds awesomely sound, which means something is bound to go wrong, and I can't wait to see exactly what that something, or somethings, will be. Faith at Donnie's, Warren waking up, *Tara* waking up, crazy Darla and Angel - there's a lot of Wild West to cover and I'm just eager as all get out to see how it unfolds. Outstanding job, Cam.

p.s. I'll try to leave fewer items-linked-by-multiple-hyphens next time. (Good lord...)

[JustSkipIt]

Cam - what a totally great update. My favorite part? When Willow tells how they kissed and loved each other, etc. and Tara's all like, "uh. No. Not what happened." Just a great storytelling technique and I feel like you're totally maximizing the frame of the story. And either Willow or Donnie knocked Tara out and they've never told who? That's so rockin! Not that I'm into knocking girls out and dragging them back to my cave (tee hee) or anything like that but obviously it worked so...

Willow in a dress. Well yeah. I hope it wasn't one of those gross ones from season 4 (although most of those were actually ugly skirt/really ugly top combos). I'm picturing something very calico with a matching bonnet. How very cute. Tee hee. And well yeah, Tara was all hubba hubba at seeing that Willow's dressed in drag. Kind of getting a little Victor/Victoria there.

I have to say that I'm really really curious about where Willow thinks her relationship with Tara is going. I mean assuming that she believes Tara is straight, doesn't she think that Tara will notice that she's a woman at some point in their relationship? And if she didn't think that Tara was straight, why not tell her? It doesn't seem like the most well thought out plan ever.

Anyway, this is so fantastic. Well done and keep it coming.

[Artemis]

Heh, I love how you're having fun with the narrator segments, now that they're established enough to mess with the formula (like the rest of the story). Willow's dreamy alternate version was hilarious, especially Tara's fond reaction to it.

It was clever having Willow's secret turn out to be something she could use to her advantage. But the big question is, who clocked Tara? I don't suppose we'll ever know - it was a great use of yet another old western (and all kinds of serial, really) cliche, knocking out someone to keep them out of trouble (Sky Captain's coming to mind). And again, I liked how it transitioned into the narrator segment, which put a little spin on it, and gave Willow and Tara a nice sense of acceptance and maturity between each other.

(My money's on Donnie, though. Not because I'm having flashbacks to Jerkhole Canon Donnie - I think GER Decent Donnie is firmly established enough to avoid that - but because Will's new, and no matter how much she loves Tara she's only just met her, really. Whereas Donnie's her brother, and they've no doubt seen each other at their best and worst over the years - I think of the two of them, Donnie's the one more likely to be able to do what had to be done for Tara's protection (and face the consequences), while Will would've had more idealistic 'But it's Tara! There must be another way!' doubts holding her back. But as I say, we'll likely never know, and I can live with that.)

[Tujeky]

Your take on a western is so charming, that it's impossible not to be drawn in.
I love the image of Tara seeing Will in a dress. I'm sure for all the shock of the moment, there was a little drool as well.

Hmm another of Will's plans. Best laid plans and all that.
But sounds like they're heading for some alone time. Plenty of opportunity for explanations and....explorations?

Look forward to more

[Grayson]

The girl-dressed-as-a-guy-dressed-as-a-girl thing is great! It reminds me of the book Monstrous Regiment by Terry Pratchett.

I love the humor mixed with romance mixed with adventure in this story. I can't wait for the next update.

[Safuega]

Totally missed the 'sunrise v. night' glitch in the narrative, but definitely caught this:

“Of course, my love,” Tara gushed. “If you think it best, it must be so.”

I actually did a double take when I read this fantastic line and actually thought 'wtf?' But then you followed with the punching scene and I was in hysterics.

The punching scene is so right and so wrong that it's perfect, if that makes sense. It is so thoroughly ingrained in the genre that when they do it I was in complete agreement with Willow and Donnie, but after I stopped laughing it dawned on me that if they had bothered to explain to Tara no hitting would have been necessary. But it's a wonderful scene of the 'boys' making a decision and treating the 'girl' in the wild west fashion even though all of them go against type in this fic!

The comic timing is impeccable and the vagueness of the 'who did it' scene is so well done I could totally picture the scene in my head. In the back of my mind I kept thinking about Abbott and Costello movies.

Thanks for sharing. I am totally looking forward to Tara waking up from that punch and confronting Will.

Safuega

[EndlessDestiny]

I really like this story and eagerly wait for an update.

[tarawhipped]

Chapter 21 replies…

lilkitty1389: Always nice to see new readers. Thanks for your support![br]
dlline: I’m glad you liked both versions of the incident. As soon as I thought of the scene, I was so glad I had the narrator segments to play with. Truth is always subjective, and I had to throw in at least one reminder that we’re hearing this from one person’s very biased view. Thanks, Diane.[br]
morningstar: I’m so glad old Willow and Tara are such a hit, and it’s great fun writing those parts. Tara’s reaction upon waking is up next. Thank you.[br]
tazraven: Thank you for picking out older Tara’s interruption of the story. I like the idea of old Willow telling this grandiose tale where she’s the stalwart hero who does no wrong, and Tara calling her on her b.s., but not giving away that they are, in fact, the subjects of said story. Thanks, Sara.[br]
Dianneswillowtree: I’m glad you like Donnie here, and he and Willow as pals. I hope when Willow does ‘come out’ it won’t be majorly anti-climactic, but it’s still a ways off, so I’ll worry about it later. Thank you.[br]
Chummy: I’m probably paying this story less attention than another right now, but it’s never far from my thoughts, and I will keep plugging along. As for who hit Tara…I really wanted to leave it vague. There’s a fairly obvious clue in the next part, but it will be unspoken. Thanks.[br]
watty:

Are you sure you want to kidnap me and land me in FBI school for the hidden (right next door to the invisible school, where Marcie went)? Are you sure you want to let lose a fully trained smart-cookie watty onto the unsuspecting world?

Hmm…good point. *black van screeches to a halt, watty is carefully placed on the sidewalk in front of the biggest Mac store known to man* There, that oughtta keep you busy for a while. [br]

Nothing escapes Miss Tara does it, not even when Miss Willow is sparing with the truth.

Nope, and after 50 years together, she’s not going to let Willow get away with any nonsense. I think it’s pretty obvious that Tara found drag!Will (hee!) enticing in a slightly disturbing (to her, probably) ‘oh wow I wonder if he’ll wear my dresses more often if I ask nicely’ way. As for the face-punching…I had to do it, you know? It’s a western, dagblammit. Thanks, Watty![br]
EasierSaid: Thank you so much for your comments on the action and the timing of the transitions. As much fun as this story has been to write, that last chapter was the most fun yet. I threw in a boatload of clues that Willow’s tale was suddenly getting taller, and am glad people picked up on so many of them…sorry to make you doubt your reading comprehension. Hehehe. As I mentioned to Diane, I really wanted to highlight the fact that this has all been told by Willow, who is hardly an impartial witness. More subtly, I hope it also showed that since this was the first time Tara spoke up and said “no way, didn’t happen,” Willow’s actually not stretching the truth too badly.[br]

Willow’s plan sounds awesomely sound, which means something is bound to go wrong

Hmm…yes and no. Something will go wrong in Willow’s plan, but Willow has more than one plan, and what goes wrong in one will make the other turn out better. Hope that clears things up. Thanks so much, Heather, and hyphenate all you want.[br]
JustSkipIt:

I feel like you're totally maximizing the frame of the story

When I started this story with the narrator, I didn’t plan on ever using it again, but am so glad I did. It was fun to play on the whole ‘just who’s telling this story, and can their version be trusted?’ idea. I hope that made it pretty clear that while Willow may be putting forth a slightly slanted version, Tara isn’t going to let her get away with outright making things up. The part about not knowing who knocked her out started as me not wanting to decide. It might be clear after the next part, but Willow’s kept her word and never told.[br]
The calico dress with a bonnet is what I had in mind too, but as you and I are the same age, we probably both grew up with Little House on the Prairie and Holly Hobbie…who’s apparently been redesigned: new Holly…yeesh. Definite yes on the Victor/Victoria vibe, but then I’ve always made my Julie Andrews love clear.[br]

I have to say that I'm really really curious about where Willow thinks her relationship with Tara is going

At this point, Willow doesn’t think she stands a chance, but she also isn’t expecting to stick around after she helps the Maclays with their problems. In the meantime, she’s made a weak effort not to let things escalate, but Tara keeps pushing things, and Willow’s not strong and/or stupid enough to say no. Add in that Willow already had something big going down before she even stopped in Dusty Hollow (which will play out soon), and she’s a wee bit frazzled. Thanks for your always astute remarks, Debra![br]
Artemis: I am having a blast with the narrator bits, Chris! I don’t have any more planned out at the moment, but as with most of the ones so far, an idea just popped up and I went with it. Hopefully I’ll have a chance to do more. As for the puncher, your points are well made, and while I don’t want to come right out and say it (if Willow’s kept her mouth shut all these years, who am I to spill the beans?), it will be more or less obvious after the next part. Thank you.[br]
Tujeky: I’m glad you’re enjoying the story, which has gotten me in touch with my inner cowgirl (despite having ridden a horse only once in my life and not really liking westerns). Willow and Tara will finally have some alone time, true…and all Willow’s secrets will be out before they get back to Dusty Hollow. Thanks.[br]
Grayson: I haven’t heard of the book you cite, but the descriptions os very Victor/Victoria, which is one of my faves. I first started writing this while blocked on a more serious/dark story, and I referred to it as “fluffy adventure-romance escapism.” It’s been a real treat to write, and I’m glad so many people are reading and enjoying it. Thank you.[br]
Safuega: Oh, I’m glad you got it on that line of Tara’s! That was my lil’ dig at the stereotypical helpless damsel in distress, which we know damn well Tara is not. Sheesh…she climbed out a frickin’ window and escaped from Darla’s on her own![br]
I’m glad you liked the punching…um…you know what I mean. I’d already established that Tara wouldn’t leave for her own good. As Chris said, it is such a western cliché, but sometimes you just gotta go with them. I may be bending the rules, but I’m not throwing out all the classics…just like there will be a showdown at high noon or thereabouts (though I won’t say between who). Thanks![br]
EndlessDestiny: Thank you, and the wait is over…update next.[br][br][br]

[tarawhipped]

Title: The Legend of Green Eyed Red
Author: tarawhipped (Cameron)
Email: tarawhipped@hotmail.com
Rating: R (just to be safe)
Disclaimer: All characters are the property of Joss Whedon/Mutant Enemy
Feedback: You betcha, by golly.
Distribution: Pens, Through the Looking Glass, Mystic Muse. All others please ask first.
Summary: A redheaded stranger rides into a town full of trouble and meets a blonde barmaid. Can they save each other and the town?
Setting: AU (the Old West)[br]
Thoughts in italics[br][br][br]
Chapter 22[br][br]
The first tinge of golden rays bled through the brilliant blue of the morning sky, and Willow slowed Miss Horsey to a brisk walk. In her haste to put a fair distance between them and Dusty Hollow, she had pushed the animal harder than she was accustomed to. Miss Horsey had neither faltered nor complained, however, and Willow idly wondered if the horse sensed the urgency of the situation. The trail north was well worn and even, and if she had to venture a guess, Willow would say that they’d traveled a good forty miles. Still, it would be a day and a bit before they reached their first destination.[br]
Willow rolled her neck and shoulders to dispel the tension she’d accumulated over the past hours. The adrenaline of the previous evening’s events had carried her through the night, but morning found her bone weary. Over the swaying grasses she spied a copse of trees in the distance, and hoped there might be a stream nearby. A quick breakfast and a strong pot of coffee would be just the thing to rejuvenate her. She peered back at her passenger, who continued to sleep soundly, though Willow noted that the jarring ride had shifted her further toward the back of the cart, and the bruise at Tara’s right temple was plainly visible.[br]
Sure, knock her out. Great plan![br]
The redhead slowed Miss Horsey further as they made their way toward the trees. As they approached, she could hear the sound of rushing water growing louder.[br]
“Whoa there,” she called softly, and Miss Horsey stilled in sight of the stream. With another cursory glance at Tara, Willow climbed down from her perch and set about unhitching the animal from her harness. She indicated the water with a jerk of her head. “Go on then.”[br]
The horse stood and stared at Willow.[br]
“What are you waiting for? Go on,” she said, as the horse continued to look at her.[br]
Not exactly at me, Willow thought to herself. More like…past me…over my shoulder.[br]
Willow turned just in time to duck out of the way of the saddlebag aimed at her head. The force of the swing spun Tara full circle, and Willow jumped backwards as the blonde set herself for another try.[br]
“Now Tara, I know you’re mad,” the redhead stated evenly, bobbing and weaving to avoid presenting an easy target. The barmaid followed step for step, tightening her grip on one of the leather pouches, the other swaying back and forth like a pendulum gathering momentum. “But if we could just talk about—hey!”[br]
The heavy leather smacked Willow’s left shoulder, knocking her sharply to the right. Only some fancy footwork kept her upright, and in Tara’s next attempt, Willow deftly moved under the swing and lunged forward, into Tara’s back. She caught the blonde around the waist with one arm and wrestled the saddlebag away with her free hand.[br]
“Let go of me!” the irate woman said, her normally warm voice icy.[br]
“You gonna take another swing at me?” Willow countered, not relaxing her hold at all.[br]
“Yes!” Tara replied at once.[br]
“Then I ain’t lettin’ go.”[br]
“Fine,” Tara stated through gritted teeth.[br]
She started marching back down the trail, dragging Willow with her. The redhead held on tighter to Tara’s waist, but was only able to slow the latter’s progress, not halt it. Willow tried digging in her heels, but they simply skidded over the hard-packed earth.[br]
“Tara…come on! Can’t we just talk about this? Will you…just…stop already!”[br]
The blonde continued to trudge forward, leaning forward with the effort to counter Willow’s weight, slight as it was.[br]
“Don’t be so damn stubborn!” Willow said, looking back to see Miss Horsey bobbing her head in what appeared to be amusement. “Fine, you want to walk home, be my guest!”[br]
As soon as Willow let go, Tara fell face first onto the ground. She rolled onto her back and sat up, spitting out a mouthful of dust and glaring at the redhead, who glared back in return.[br]
“It’s fifty miles that way!” Willow shouted, poking her finger down the trail from whence they’d come. “So you better get started. Soon as the sun’s up it’ll be hotter than blazes, and there ain’t nothin’ between here and Dusty Hollow but weeds and coyotes!”[br]
Tara stared hard, her face red with anger, and pushed herself to her feet. Willow watched with growing apprehension as the blonde curled her hands into fists. They stood five feet apart, and the redhead pondered making a run for the trees. She wasn’t at all sure she could climb up one before Tara caught her, and even if she could, what then?[br]
“You,” Tara ground out. “You…scoundrel!”[br]
“I can explain?”[br]
“You know, yesterday started out like any other day,” Tara said, her voice rising in what Willow could only assume was bordering on hysteria. “Making breakfast, washing up, doing laundry. And then…you show up and want me to help you and Donnie cheat at poker, and obviously that didn’t go over so well, since the next thing I know everyone’s fighting and I’m being kidnapped by the town’s main whore. And then you come to rescue me, and…and you kissed me, but oh, no…can’t tell Tara what’s going on! And then! Then I find out from the cavalry that you’re a wanted criminal, and that apparently I’m the last to know, since you’ve roped Donnie and Faith and Xander and who knows who else into helping you escape, but do you just escape? No! You have to go and kidnap me. For the second time in one night!”[br]
“I know it sounds bad,” Willow soothed, holding her hands out in front of her. She remembered Donnie’s remark about ‘ornery Tara’ and no longer wished to see it. It was kinda scary, especially when the blonde raised one hand and gingerly touched her temple before directing furious eyes at Willow.[br]
“You hit me!”[br]
“Well now,” Willow hedged.[br]
“Who did it? You or Donnie?” Tara demanded.[br]
“See, the important thing is that you’re okay,” Willow insisted, cringing under the ferocious glare. She saw something else in Tara’s eyes that made her pause. There was something besides the anger: hurt. She didn’t think it was a physical pain, but just to be certain, she gently asked “you are okay, right?”[br]
“Like you care,” Tara muttered, her head bowed, her shoulders slouching. She kicked at a clump of dirt.[br]
“I do care!” Willow protested. “Dammit, Tara, don’t you know I shoulda left town the day after I got here, but as soon as I found out what they was plannin’, I couldn’t. I got the law after me in five, maybe six states, and all I could think about—nothing else, nothing was as important as helping you. Nothing matters half as much.”[br]
“Then why didn’t you tell me what you were doing?” Tara asked, her ire rising again. “You can’t just go around kidnapping people.”[br]
“So,” Willow started, relaxing a bit as Tara dropped her aggressive stance and crossed her arms over her chest, “if I’d told you that Wilkins and the Sheriff were planning to kill Donnie, take your land, and hand you over to…that woman…and that the only way to keep you safe was to get you out of town ‘til we could figure out a way to take them down, you’d have come along willingly?”[br]
Tara’s forehead creased and she averted her eyes. “Um…”[br]
“That’s what I thought.”[br]
“But that doesn’t give you the right—,” Tara suddenly snapped her head up and rushed toward Willow. “They’re going to kill Donnie? And you left him there? We have to go back!”[br]
“He’ll be fine,” Willow insisted, trotting after Tara, who had raced over to the stream and was trying to drag an unwilling Miss Horsey away from the water. “He had to stay or they could’ve just taken the land as abandoned property. The cavalry will keep the peace, and they won’t leave long as they think I’m comin’ back.”[br]
“Are you going back?” Tara asked, giving up and patting the horse’s flank. She studiously avoided looking at the redhead as she posed her query, but her curiosity was evident in her voice.[br]
“Of course. I made a promise.”[br]
Tara finally let her gaze meet Willow’s, and nodded at the sincerity.[br]
“You keep your promises?”[br]
“Always,” Willow answered evenly.[br]
“I don’t like being kept in the dark,” Tara warned.[br]
“I’m sorry, Tara. We should have told you.”[br]
Tara nodded and stepped up to the redhead. She took Willow’s hands in hers.[br]
“Tell me who hit me.”[br]
Willow squirmed, but didn’t break eye contact. “I can’t do that.”[br]
“Why not?”[br]
“That would require breaking a promise,” Willow said apologetically. She felt Tara squeeze her hands tightly, and she grinned and squeezed back. Tara’s lips curled up on one side, and her eyes dropped to their joined hands. Willow realized too late what the barmaid was doing, and pulled her hands away, covering the gesture by pointing toward the wagon. “I was uh, gonna make some coffee and breakfast before we get back on the road. You hungry?”[br]
“Mmhm,” Tara murmured, an enigmatic smile on her face as she followed the redhead to the cart. Willow filled a bucket with oats for Miss Horsey while Tara built a small fire, and together they cooked up a kettle of oatmeal and large pot of coffee. Both were famished, and the meal passed in silence.[br]
“So where are you taking me?” the blonde asked as they took their dishes to the stream for washing.[br]
“Some folks I know got a spread another day’s ride from here.”[br]
“They won’t mind us showing up unannounced?”[br]
“Nah, they always got plenty of room. It’s kind of a collective farm. Officially it’s the DCP, but they call it the Kitten Ranch.”[br][br]
TBC[br][br][br]

[Alcy]

Woo and hoo, DIBS!

From the first gorgeous opening line of this chapter you had me hooked! Tara waking up pissed off was spot on and even the fact that it was her beloved Will that she was swingin’ at didn’t stop her in the slightest. And her angry speech laying bare all Will’s ‘crimes’ was the perfect follow up, Tara’s pissed and I sure as hell wouldn’t want to be in her way (although that would be one damn sexy sight!) And I think before this story is over she is going to find out who did the hitting…
Onwards to the Kitten Ranch! Yeehah!

[tazraven]

Yay! *Claps hands* An update for one of my favorite stories! *Takes a deep breath and calms down* Hi Cam

Great chapter. Very entertaining, just as every other chapter of this story is. Had me laughing out loud several times.

Not exactly at me, Willow thought to herself. More like…past me…over my shoulder.

Willow turned just in time to duck out of the way of the saddlebag aimed at her head. The force of the swing spun Tara full circle, and Willow jumped backwards as the blonde set herself for another try.

LMAO. I could so see this perfectly. An irate Tara swinging a heavy saddlebag at Willow. Just cracked me up.

all I could think about—nothing else, nothing was as important as helping you. Nothing matters half as much.”

Alright, everyone ready? 1-2-3... A big collective Awww. I'm so loving this story. I have a confession to make. When I first saw this, I said to myself, A western? Eww, I hate westerns. So, against my better judgement, I started reading it, and I feel guilty for ever not wanting to read it. Forgive me? Such a great story you have here, Cam. Love the writing, love the characters, love the plot, and can't wait for more.

~Sara