Fic, Wishes Come True

[WillowsGirlXX]

Sometimes Wishes Come True
Story idea by Chris McCann, Written by Rachel McCann
Email: WillowBabbles@aol.com
Rating: R
Disclaimer: These characters and some of the dialogue are owned by Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, I am simply borrowing them for a bit. No Infringement of the copyright is intended. This story is for fun only; I make no money from this.
Distribution: Just ask me
Spoilers: All up to Help Season 7
Feedback: Yes Please
Pairing: Willow/Tara, Anya/Xander, Buffy/Faith
Authors Notes: Brothers idea, which I have written up.
Summary: Willow has returned to Sunnydale, she thinks about her life, her friends and her lost love. However an old friend has a surprise in store and someone much loved is brought back to life.

***

Willow sat alone in bronze the favourite haunt of the Scooby gang; she slowly stirred her drink with the stick. She had been back in Sunnydale just a week now; it had a shock to her system coming back to this place she once though of as home. The encounter with Gnarl had nearly killed her, but as usual Buffy had come to her rescue.

Buffy as always had been there for her, she had helped to heal the wiccans injuries, but just over three months ago things had been different. Willow had crossed the line and killed, ripped the skin from Warren’s body and disintegrated him with a thought. The memory of that moment was etched in her mind still and she hated herself for doing it. Even though he took away from her the one thing she loved without question, her girlfriend and soulmate Tara.

A shiver ran down her spine as she remembered Tara lying dead in her arms, killed by a single bullet. How Willow had often wished that that same bullet that took Tara’s life and taken her own life with it. Willow hated the thought she had gone so evil and hurt her friends and nearly killed them. Then tried to end the whole world as the pain of losing Tara was so bad. Yet Buffy had forgiven her, took her back into her home and made her feel welcome.

“Thanks Buffy.” She thought to herself.

Willow thought of Xander, the guy who stopped her from ending the world, just by his love. He had been her friend for so many years and he never stopped loving her. She smiled a little, she loved him dearly and he had been her shoulder when she paid a visit to Tara’s grave a few days ago.

“I love you Xander.” She whispered to herself.
Willow’s thoughts turned to Dawn, Buffy’s younger sister. She and Dawn had always been close till the time Willow threatened to kill her at Rack’s place. Dawn was still a little distant but at least she was talking to her now. Dawn was the one she felt she had most betrayed, and she hoped in time they could rebuild their friendship.

“I’m so sorry Dawnie.” She said quietly.

Her thoughts where interrupted as someone say down in the seat opposite her. He was a tall handsome guy and her gave her a warm smile. “Is this seat taken?” He asked her.

Willow shook her head. “No.”

“What’s pretty young girl like you doing sitting all alone?” He said.

“Just thinking.” She replied.

“You should be dancing, enjoying yourself. I’m Dan.” He introduced himself.

“Willow.” She said curtly.

“Nice name, so where is the boyfriend then?” He asked her.

“Don’t have one of them.” She replied, she knew what was coming.

“Well maybe I can help there.” He said confidently.

“I’m gay.” Willow said.

“Opps.” He said. “So chatting you up not really going to work huh?”

“Sorry.” Willow gave him a polite smile.

“In that case I shall wish you a good evening and take care Miss Willow.” He gave her a nod and then left her alone with her thoughts again.

She allowed herself a little smile, her sexuality had only really come out when she met Tara. Although a vampire version of herself had given her a slight hint that she might not be totally a guy’s girl. Meeting Tara had changed her world forever, she finally met her soulmate. That beautiful shy, stuttering blonde girl who had mended her broken heart and made her feel so special.

A tear ran down Willow’s cheek at the memory of her late girlfriend, her heart still ached with the loss. Tara had been Willow’s whole world, her reason for being and living. She and the beautiful blonde witch and been two parts of one soul. They had a perfect love together, and now Tara was gone there was a huge whole in the redhead’s life. One she knew would never heal fully, only maybe when they meet again in the world beyond this one.

“I love you so much Tara Maclay, my dearest sweetheart, my soul and my angel.” Willow whispered. “I miss you so much.”

Several tears flowed down her pale cheeks, she knew it would be a long time before she could move on. No girl would ever be able to capture her heart like Tara had done.

“I’ll always love you my Tara.” She said again.

Glancing at her watch she thought it was best to head back home, after all it was late and she was out on her own. Buffy and the others would start to worry if she didn’t come back soon.

Willow stood up and made her way to the door, she exited the bronze and stood outside in the cold for a moment. Taking a deep breath she looked up to the sky seeing the stars twinkling away.

“That’s the big pineapple.” She said to herself, a little smile on her lips. She took a deep breath and sighed. “I wish you didn’t die Tara, I miss you so much sweetie.”

Willow slowly began to walk home, not noticing the figure of Anya behind her.

Anya watched Willow leave, smiling to herself her face changed into her demon form of Anyanka. She spoke. “Done.”

A distance away in a graveyard stood a headstone which read. Tara Maclay October 16th 1980 – May 7, 2002. The graveyard was silent and nothing was moving save for a little wind blowing through the trees.

Suddenly there was a bright flash of light just over the grave, and moments later a figure of a woman appeared. She wavered a little and shook her head unsure of what had happened.

“Oh god, were am I?” She said. “I thought I was with Willow a moment ago.”

She glanced around and saw that she was in the middle of a graveyard; a cold shiver ran up her spine. She then caught sight of the headstone bearing her own name and she felt the cold chill again.

“Oh my god, what happened to me, I have to find Willow.”

---

This is part one of a story to resurrect Tara to be reunited with Willow. It's mostly season seven based but more romance as W/T Smoochies are the best thing.

Hope you like the idea
Rachel

[Emms]

Rachel, this sounds very interesting so far, I can't wait to see where you go with this Idea.

xoxo
Emms

[willowbaby05]

Hello!!
Okay I'ma start this off by saying I love the start of it. It really caught my eye. So I hope you update soon.

[Willowtree252]

yes this is wonderful more please we need

[tarebear]

hey rachel!

like everyone said, this is really interesting... i would like to read where you lead up with this promising premise.... but why do i get the feeling that anya's granting willow's accidental wish means trouble for the scoobies? well, at least tara's back! yey!

later!



ces

[a willow angel]

Hey there Rachel

I have to say, what I like about your story is that you brought in a very valid lupehole to Tara's death.
What I never understood is why Willow didn't wish Tara back. Anya even said herself in the show, that normally she would have to go to Willow so had Willow wanted she would have granted her a wish. So why didn't she just go to Anya and wish to go back to the moment of Tara's death and prevent it, or even just plain wish Tara alive.

Can't wait to see what happens now that Tara is back!

Natalie

[taraforever]

I love the idea. Very great beginning Rachel...

Keep on doing your great job

[river]

wow thats amazing! i love it! it is so cool that tara is coming back !
come on,i want more!

[WillowsGirlXX]

Hiya thank so much for the kind words, here is chapter two of the story,

I promise a lot of Willow/Tara Smoochies

Chapter two

Willow turned the corner by the graveyard on her way back home to Buffy, she wondered if the slayer was out there tonight patrolling. She would come back in the morning to say hi again to Tara, tonight she just wanted to get back to the others.

She stopped for a moment, Tara’s grave was a fair distance from the entrance she couldn’t see her from here. She sighed with a heavy heart, every day was still a struggle without Tara. Willow accepted that she would never be whole again without her, she wiped a tear from her eye and started to walk away.

“Willow.” A voice called out to her.

Willow felt a cold chill run through her, the voice was so familiar and it was that of her dead lover. She froze on the spot not daring to turn round, was it a trick or a cruel joke.

“Willow sweetie, what’s going on, how did I get here?” The voice called again. “Someone is playing a cruel joke on me, I I I saw a headstone with my name on it.”

Willow began to panic; this had to be a joke or something out there to torment her. Tears welled in her eyes and turned around to face who ever it was playing this very sick joke on her. She saw a figure obviously a female judging by the body shape, it looked so familiar and so real.

“Who is this?” Willow called out.

“Willow sweetie it’s me.” The girl replied and took a few steps towards the redhead.

Willow couldn’t believe it, her face went ashen and she began to shake. Her lower lip quivering as the mysterious girl stepped into the lit area around the graveyard. The girl was blonde haired, wearing a blue jumper and jeans and she looked and sounded exactly like Tara.

She had the same loving look in her eyes, there was a slight worry in her brow, but she clearly looked like her deceased girlfriend.

“Tara.” Willow said hesitantly.

“Willow honey, you’re scaring me. Are you ok?” Tara asked. “Please what’s going on.”

The blonde stepped forward and before Willow could pull away she was caught up in her arms. The redhead began to cry this was no illusion or ghost, this was real. This girl who looked so much like Tara felt warm to the touch; Willow could feel the blonde’s heart beating against her own chest. She looked up straight into the blue sapphire eyes of Tara. Willow could see straight into her eyes, and she could tell it was her, she was Tara and she was alive.

“Oh God Tara your real, your alive.” Willow said through her tears. “I thought I had lost you, you died in my arms.”

“W w w willow please what’s wrong, what happened to you.” Tara asked her, her voice stuttering a little.

“Tara, he killed you four months ago.” Willow said her sobbing becoming more intense.

“What?” Tara said her voice shaking with emotion as tears too began to roll down her soft pale cheeks.

“Warren he shot you.” Willow replied through her own tears. “You died.”

Tara stood still for a moment and then the memory hit her, she remember talking to Willow then a sharp pain and seeing blood on Willow’s shirt. “Oh god no, Willow your shirt.”

Willow could feel Tara’s breath on her cheek, she looked deep into her eyes again to be sure, it really was her Tara alive and well. “You’re alive, oh my god you’re really alive.” Willow said.

Tara took one free hand and reached up to her neck, she pressed two fingers against the artery and she could feel her own pulse. She was alive she moved to her breast where the bullet struck her. There was nothing there, no blood no hole just the soft material of her jumper.

“Willow what’s happening to me, what’s going on.” Tara pleaded.

“I don’t know, my god Tara I can’t believe its really you. Oh baby I missed you so much. I died without you in my life.” Willow told her through her tears.

Willow gathered herself together for a moment and then spoke again. “Tara baby, lets get back home, we can figure it out. I really missed you Tara, I love you so much.”

Tara just nodded her mind racing as she understood that she really had been dead, but here she was now alive and well. She didn’t quite know what to say, but she took Willow’s hand. “I love you too Willow.”

They ran back to Buffy’s house as fast as they could, both girls where still shaking as they finally reached Buffy’s house. Willow opened the door and peaked inside; everyone else had gone to bed. She walked inside and Tara followed her closing the door behind her.

Willow turned around to face Tara; she ran her hand softly down the blonde wiccans cheek and wiped a few of the tears away. Willow felt the terrible burden weighing on her mind, she knew she had to get this over with. “Tara?”

“Willow.”

“God I missed you so much, I did things terrible things horrible things when I lost you.” Willow told her. She led the blonde to the sofa and they both sat down. “I I I killed the man who took you away from me, I hurt so many people, and I hurt Buffy, Dawn and Giles. God Tara I am so sorry.”

Tara stroked her cheek softly; she placed her hands either side of the redhead and looked deep into her eyes. She could see the pain in Willow’s eyes and the guilt, the redhead looked away for a moment ashamed of the memories of what she had done.

“Willow, it’s ok. I’m here I am not going anywhere.” Tara said.

“Tara its not okay, I did terrible things.” Willow said crying. “I was totally out of control.”

“What happened to stop you?” Tara asked.

“Xander showed me love, he brought me back.” Willow said. “Giles took me to England and I spent a few months learning to control my powers. God Tara I lost control, I am still scared of my power I don’t want to hurt anyone.”

Tara took a moment to take it all in, she knew Willow was very powerful, but as she looked back into the redhead’s eyes she saw, regret, guilt, but she also saw love.

“Tara I would understand if you hated me.” Willow said.

Tara just stroked her cheek for a moment, clearly Willow had been though enough pain already. She remembered the time she left Willow over her magic use, but seeing her like this she knew what she had to do, she needed to help heal her.

She felt nothing but love for the redhead, the same love they always had for each other. Tara took her hand and pulled it close to her chest, Willow looked nervous but Tara just gave her a loving smile.

“Willow stop, please don’t do this to yourself. I love you Willow, I don’t hate you, and I could never hate you.” Tara said to reassure her. She pulled Willow close and kissed her. “We’ll work it out Willow, no matter what, you and me together.”

“Together?” Willow said hopefully.

“Always, we belong together, I I I don’t know how I got another chance to be with you, but we are meant be together.” Tara said. “No matter what I am never going to leave you, we can do this, be strong for each other.”

“Strong like an amazon.” Willow said with a little hopeful smile.

Tara brushed a few strands of Willows soft redhair. “Strong like an amazon.”

“It’s just when you died it hurt so much, Tara we should be forever.” Willow said through her tears. “Oh god baby I love you so much.”

Tara just smiled lovingly at her she wiped the tears from her eyes and then leaned a little close cupping the redheads face. She moved a little closer and her lips met Willow’s.

Willow relaxed as she felt Tara’s lips upon her own, the soft touch of the Tara’s lips, the warmth and love that radiated from her. Willow felt the loneliness fading as she let herself go as they kissed.

“Tara I.” Willow began as their lips parted for a moment.

“Hush my love.” Tara said softly.

“I just can’t believe your alive, your really alive.” Willow breathed. “How this happened I don’t know, but I thank the goddess you are here.”

“I don’t know either, maybe Mr Giles can help.” Tara said. “But cant that wait till morning.”

Tara kissed her again and stood up; taking Willow’s hand she pulled the redhead into her arms.

“Bed baby?” Willow asked.

“To bed my sweet Willow.” Tara replied.

“Tara I love you so much.” Willow said, as she felt the warmth of her girlfriend’s body around her.

Tara looked into Willow’s soft green eyes. “I love you too Willow.”

Willow led her girlfriend upstairs still shocked at the fact Tara was alive, but she was happy. They would figure out how and why Tara was back tomorrow, for now Willow just wanted to hold her all night long just to hold her.

Outside the summers house. Anya peered through the window she allowed herself a smile. There was a flash beside her and her master D’Hoffryn appeared.

“Anyanka, what magic is this restoring one of the dead. You know the rules, only can you grant a wish on a wronged woman.” He said.

“I did. Willow was wronged by a man, when he killed her lover Tara. She killed him in revenge; tonight she made a wish as she is a wronged woman so I granted it.”

“Ah yes the flaying of Warren Meers, good piece of work by Ms Rosenberg, I still have high hopes for that young woman.” D’Hoffryn said. “Still Anyanka, restoring a life is not the job of a vengeance demon, still I cannot take it back. I am most displeased and I will consider this matter further before I deal with you.”

“I have not broken the rules.” Anya said defiantly.

“Twisted them maybe, Anyanka you don’t give life you take it.” He said to her. “However much I disagree with this I cannot take it back so I shall honor this and Ms Maclay will be allowed to live on.”

“Thank you.” Anya said.

“Oh don’t thank me, while I will honor your granting of this wish. I will take a penalty from you. You are out Anyanka, this is your penalty you are now a human again.”

“I thought you would kill me.” Anya said.

“All in good time, from beneath you it devours.” D’Hoffryn said, and with a wave of his wrist he vanished, leaving Anya alone. She turned away and walked back towards her apartment. She knew she would probably die for bringing Tara back to Willow, but she hoped that perhaps the two wiccans could stop the evil rising and maybe, just maybe save her soul too.

----

End of part two.

I have so many ideas about bring Tara back, i hated to see her and Willow apart so I am always dreaming up new ways to do it. Hope you like this part as the two girls are finally back in each others arms.

Rachel

[river]

wow another amazing part!! and lots of kisses

[Willowtree252]

YES not many people write this and thay should. we were wronged when tara was shot now you promise to fix it. thank you thay should be happy and this story will right the wrongs done to us all. I know there must be pain but thay can have happness too I will be at your side on this story

[willowbaby05]

That was beautiful!!!
Okay Okay *sobs* Definally will be waiting for the next update.

[Willowlover]

This is an interesting story I cant wait to see where you take it from here. I loved how you where able to get Willow to say she loved Tara so manny times without it sounding repetitive.

[WillowsGirlXX]

:pinky YES not many people write this and thay should. we were wronged when tara was shot now you promise to fix it. thank you thay should be happy and this story will right the wrongs done to us all. I know there must be pain but thay can have happness too I will be at your side on this story

Thank you, I have read some pretty amazing stories that bring Tara back to Willow's heart where she belongs. I do agree that we were badly let down by the series, they gave us the perfect couple and then tore it away from us.

I wouldnt have been were I am today if it hadnt been for Willow and Tara, thanks to them I came out of the closet.

I just love them so much, thats why in anything I do I barely put in angst as they have been through enough already, all i want is more Willow/Tara smoochies.


Well here is the next part of the story and dont worry much more smoochies to follow.

Rachel

Chapter Three

The sun broke through the curtains and shone on the far wall, the dust in the room danced in the early morning rays of light. In the bed two girls slept peacefully their arms wrapped around each other. Willow twitched a little as she dreamed, this made Tara wrap around one arm just a little tighter around the redheads waist.

Buffy opened the door to the room to see if Willow was up, she had brought her a cup of coffee. Buffy took a few steps into the room and stopped, the coffee cup slipped from her hand straight onto the floor with a crash.

“Oh my god.” Buffy said as she recognised the sleeping form of Tara cuddled up next to Willow. Her mind began to race, what was going on here, had Willow done a resurrection spell.

At the noise both Willow and Tara woke up, Willow was the first to see Buffy’s reaction and the look of total shock on her face. Tara pulled the bedcovers up around her nearly naked body.

Buffy watched for a moment then spoke. “Willow what’s going on, what did you do?”

Willow faced her best friend. “I don’t know Buffy, something happened last night, I left the bronze and on my way home I met Tara, she was just there.” She noticed the look in the slayers eyes. “Buffy I didn’t do a spell to do this I swear.”

“Buffy it’s true, something weird happened.” Tara said. “I remember talking to Willow in our room, some pain and then found myself near the graveyard. I ran into Willow and we came back here.”

Buffy stood there in disbelief, she was shaking. “Tara you died, we buried you several months ago.” She said. “This is unbelievable.”

She took a few steps forward and reached out and touched the soft skin of the blonde girl. It was warm and real, she could see her chest rising and falling with her breathing.

Buffy sat down on the bed, and brushed aside a few strands of the blonde wiccans hair. The beautiful blue eyes that Willow adored showed that same sparkle Buffy remembered the after the two girls and rekindled their love. “Your alive, oh my god Tara your really back.”

“I I I guess so.” Tara said tears in her eyes. “Buffy I don’t know what is going on myself. I hope we can figure it out.”

Willow pulled her girlfriend close wrapping both arms around her waist. “Tara, we’ll figure it out I promise, you’re alive and you’re here that’s all that matters ok.” Willow reassured her. “Tara oh baby.” She whispered and kissed her lovers neck softly.

Buffy pulled the blonde girl into a hug, she felt the warmth of her body heat and the slight thump thump of her heart against her breast. Tara was alive, she had to be no way was she was fake she could tell it was really Tara. Everything about her, the scent of her hair, the look in her eyes, and the girl in front of her was Tara Maclay.

“Tara we missed you all so much, Dawn, Anya.” Buffy told her still hugging the girl close. “Willow was torn apart.”

“I know Buffy, but I am happy to be here, I just want to know why I am alive.” Tara said, her hand still firmly grasping that of her girlfriends.

“Maybe we should call Giles; he might know what is going on and how come Tara is alive.” Willow suggested.

“I might give him a call; he’s in England but its afternoon there so I’ll speak to him soon.” Buffy said.

“I might be able to help you.” A voice called out. “I know how Tara came back.”

All three girls turned around at the sound of the voice, standing in the door was Anya. Willow stood up, forgetting she was only still in her underwear. “Anya, what do you know?”

Tara wrapped the bed sheet around her a little tighter to cover her modesty, she blushed a little at everyone nearly seeing her naked.

“Sorry your door was open.” Anya smiled at her. “Willow you did it, you wished that Tara was back. Being a vengeance demon and you being a wronged woman. I granted your wish.”

“I thought you could only do that on a woman who had been wronged by a man.” Buffy asked puzzled.

“Warren was a man, he killed Tara, trust me when I say that was wrong.” Anya told her bluntly. “You got your wish Willow.”

“You did this?” Willow said gasping, “You really did this. Why?”

“Willow I heard you wish it, and I granted it, I missed Tara too you know. I heard you outside the bronze; I know how much Tara means to you.” Anya said. “Besides there was another reason, evil is coming, something so bad it could destroy us all.” She paused for moment.

Willow nodded; she remembered the visions from when she was in England. Tara sensed her anguish and placed her hand on her girlfriends shoulder.

“Halfrek said that this is a bad time to be a good guy, so I thought I would even things up, Tara is a powerful witch, and perhaps you and Willow can stop it.” She saw the frown on Buffy’s face. “Sorry help Buffy kick its ass, look please D’Hoffryn kicked me out for bring Tara back, I was hoping you could both stop it and maybe help me.” She said. “Something is coming, something bad.”

“From beneath you it devours.” Buffy said.

“Look I suck at being bad now, please will you help me?” Anya asked, she looked nervous.

Willow walked towards Anya and looked at her a for a few moments, she searched the former demons eyes for a clue. She could only see fear and maybe a little hope. She pulled Xander’s former lover into an embrace. “Yes, god yes and Anya thank you.”

“No problem, but please I really do ask for your help.” Anya said.

Tara got out of the bed and she too gave Anya a huge embrace, she was surprised but happy at what she had done. “Thank you Anya.”

“Hey don’t worry Tara, besides I really did miss you. You where always nice to me, everyone missed you.” Anya said.

“Wait Anya, is there a price with Tara’s life, I mean is she really here to stay?” Buffy asked her. “Last thing I want is Willow to lose her again.”

“Yes there is a price, D’Hoffryn will try to kill me, but no Tara is safe she is as she was before Warren killed her, I brought her body and soul back as she was before the bullet struck her body. She is as human as you, Willow and I guess me again.” She sighed. “The joy of being mortal again.”

“Really?” Tara said hopefully. “I’m the same as I was?”

Anya nodded. “Tara you’re safe, D’Hoffryn cannot take back the wish, you and Willow can be together and enjoy lots of sex, and to be honest this is how it should be.”

Buffy approached Anya, she rested her hand on the former demon’s shoulder, and she smiled warmly at her. “Anya, I promise we’ll do everything we can to protect you. From now on, this is your place to.”

Anya managed a smile. “Thank you, I don’t want to die.”

“It’s the very least we can do for you bringing back Tara.” Buffy said.

“Well Willow made the wish I just granted it, besides as I said something is coming and I don’t have the heart to be evil or hurt people again, Willow gave me a chance to wish something good for a change.” Anya told her.

They all heard the door open downstairs and the voice of Xander. “Hey is anyone here, I was just on my way to check on the school ok, Buffy do you want a lift?”

“Xander I think you’d better get up here now.” Buffy shouted. “Something’s happened.”

Anya hid herself behind the door, and Tara stood next to Willow holding her hand. Buffy waited for the reaction on Xander’s face when he saw Tara. She could hear him running up the stairs, he appeared in the room slightly out of breath.

Xander looked concerned. “Ok what’s going on, has something hap…….” He stopped as he saw the figure of someone he never thought he would see again. That blonde hair, those pretty blue eyes, the soft face always full of caring and love. The last time he had seen her, she was lying on the floor in a pool of her own blood. A ragged bullet hole above her heart. “Oh god, oh my god.”

“Hey Xander.” Tara said, in her usual soft voice.

“Xander.” Buffy started to say.

“This is not happening, what the hell is going on?” He asked.

Willow grasped Tara’s hand a little firmer. “Xander its Tara she’s alive.”

“Tara is that really you, I mean you’re not some ghost of her or some something like that.” Xander asked her. “Are you really Tara.”

He missed the scowl on Willow’s face, but the one thing he did see was Tara’s hand firmly grasped in that of Willow’s. Her chest rose and fell slightly with her breathing, she looked real but was she. He took a few steps forward, and then reached out. His hand closed around Tara’s and he felt the warm skin, she was real, and warm to the touch. This was no vampire or demon, it was really her she was alive.

“Oh god, Tara, how, what happened, you died I saw your body.” He struggled to form words. “Willow did you do this, do a spell to br…” He started to say.

“No, I did it.” He heard a familiar voice say. “I heard Willow wish it, so I granted it.”

“Anya?” He gasped, seeing his former love. “You did this, why?”

Anya smiled. “Because I like Tara, unlike some she was always nice to me. Willow was in pain and she made a wish, I granted it and used my power to bring her back. She’s alive.”

Xander turned to Willow. “Did you ask Anya for this?”

Willow looked upset but before she could answer him, Buffy spoke up in Anya’s defense. “Xander back down, no she didn’t, and Anya overheard Willow that’s all. For god’s sake Tara is alive does it really matter?”

Xander could tell he had overstepped the line, he felt ashamed of himself. “I’m really sorry Buffy, Willow I am really sorry I jumped the gun.” He turned to Anya. “I’m sorry Anya, I really mean it.” He then turned to Tara. “I’m glad to see you Tara, we all missed you so much.”

“Thank you Xander.” Tara said. “I’m happy to be here.” She smiled warmly at Anya.

“Oh my god.” Xander exclaimed.

Everyone looked at him. “What’s wrong Xander?” Buffy asked him.

“Dawn, she’s going to want to see Tara.” He said. “I’m going to go pick her up from school.”

“Xander it’s still morning.” Buffy said. “Oh to hell with it, tell her I sent you, there is an emergency.”

“Sounds good to me.” He said grinning.

“I’ll go with you.” Anya said, she then paused. “If you like?”

Xander thought for a moment and then nodded. “Sure, come on.” He paused and looked back to the blonde wiccan. “Tara it’s just so great to see you, this is just amazing.” He gave her a warm smile and then left the room.

Anya followed Xander out of the room, and moments later they heard the door open and shut. Buffy just smiled at her two friends, they looked radiant together.

“You know it’s a shame that Anya has lost her powers, I could use a good wish right now.” Buffy laughed.

Tara smiled at her. “What would you wish for?”

“Someone special for me.” She said.

Willow couldn’t help but laugh, she looked at her best friend and giggled. “You never know Buff, sometimes a wish can come.”

“I know, right now I am just happy to see you Tara, this is just more amazing than anything.” Buffy said smiling; she turned to her best friend. “I am just so happy to see you both together again; it kinda makes me feel that there is some good left in this world.”

“Well one thing is for sure, I’m going to cut Anya a lot of slack, and she brought back the woman I love.” Willow said smiling. “I so misjudged her.”

“We all did, well I guess it’s up to us to keep her safe now.” Buffy said. “Right now I’m kinda hungry though.”

“Me too, I feel like I haven’t eaten in days.” Tara said, patting her stomach.

“Poor baby.” Willow said. “I could help rub your tummy.” She said grinning.

Buffy raised her eyebrows. “Ok you two frisky vixens, do I have to go get a bucket of cold water?”

“We haven’t seen each other for so long.” Willow pouted.

“I know, believe me I really am so happy to see you two together.” Buffy said. “I’ll take Dawnie out to a movie or something, and drag Anya and Xander out, least you two can spend some time alone.” Buffy added, and then she grinned and started to giggle. “Failing that I’m going to ask Xander to sound proof this room.”

Willow and Tara both blushed at the remark, they didn’t really care though as both girls were happy to just be in each others company.

Buffy turned and left them alone again, she wanted to go start making breakfast for everyone. She hoped Xander wouldn’t be too long in getting Dawn as she knew that her sister would be overjoyed to see Tara alive and well.

Willow watched her best friend leave she turned back to Tara, the blonde had removed the bed sheet and was looking for something to put on. Willow hadn’t really seen Tara like this since that fateful day four months ago. She just watched her for a moment, admiring Tara’s beautiful figure. “Goddess.” She whispered softly.

Tara heard her say something so she turned round to face Willow. “Sorry did you say something Willow?” She saw the smile on the redhead’s face and she paused and came over and placed her hands on Willow’s hips.

“I just called you a goddess.” Willow said to her. “You are just so beautiful Tara.”

Tara blushed. “So are you Willow.”

Tara kissed her softly on her lips; they only broke the kiss when Tara heard her own stomach growl a little. The slight noise caused Willow to giggle. She knelt down and kissed Tara’s belly and then standing up kissed her again on the lips.

Willow looked up into the blonde wiccan’s eyes. “Tara, how come you always make me feel so special?”

Tara just kissed her on the forehead and took her hand. “Magic.”

***

Hope you like
Rachel

[Willowtree252]

This is wonderful untill now I tried to stay away from anything close to the show I know trouble is coming from the first but as long as thay are together and lots of plus yummy time I can handle it up to now I lived in AU land glad you are doing this story!!!!!!!!

[river]

oh those two are so cute!!
i love your story. its wonderful!!

[Useful_Oxymoron]

Oh, I like, I like. I love Tara-comes-back stories. They tend to erase the frustration of the end of season 6 and the disjoined mess that was season 7. I love what you're doing so far, and am hoping for a lot of W/T kissage.

[WillowsGirlXX]

Hiyas all

Next part is done.
Chapter Four

It hadn’t taken long for Xander to find the class that Dawn was in and make an excuse to her tutor that Dawn was needed urgently back home. Anya had gone with him; he hadn’t wanted her to be left alone. He had also sworn her to secrecy about Tara being alive until Dawn saw the blonde for herself.

Anya had reluctantly agreed to this although she knew it would be a struggle.

Dawn emerged from the classroom looking confused and a little worried after Xander had requested she leave the school for the day.

“Xander please, tell me what’s going on?” Dawn asked.

“I can’t say, but Buffy said she needs you right away.” He replied.

She saw Anya standing there. “Anya, are you ok?”

Anya shrugged her shoulders. “I am, a little mortal, lonely but I am good.”

“Do you know what’s going on, what’s the big panic?” Dawn said.

“Oh don’t worry about it Dawn, it’s a surprise a nice one too.” Anya said. She was struggling with keeping herself from blurting it out there and then.

Xander put his hand on Dawn’s shoulder. “Trust me, it’s nothing bad promise, in fact I have the feeling this is going to make your day.” He gave Anya a smile.

“Need something to cheer me up, damn James been spreading rumours again.” Dawn muttered. “I hate him.”

“What’s he been saying?” Xander asked her.

“That Buffy only got the job here because she’s sleeping with Principal Wood.” Dawn said.

“Buffy’s sleeping with the school principal?”” Anya said aghast.

Dawn looked stunned. “Oh god no, although I think he likes her.”

Just at that moment a pretty young Goth girl walked by and gave Dawn a little smile. “Hey Dawn, you’re not in class are you ok?”

“Sister has a Wiggins on about something back home Kit, said I had to come back. I’ll be here tomorrow or I could call you tonight?” Dawn offered a little hopeful tone to her voice.

“Sure that would be cool.” Kit said smiling. “Talk to you later ok?”

Dawn nodded. “Sure.”

Dawn watched her go, feeling her own heart flutter a little, over the past few weeks she and Kit had become good friends. Dawn felt a little sadness she wouldn’t be able to spend time with her today.

Anya noticed the little glances between the two girls; she had seen those looks before. “So little Dawn likes girls too.” She thought to herself.

“Ok Dawn lets get you home.” Xander said, he had completely missed the exchanges and was more interested in getting Dawn back to see Tara.

“Fine ok, but I hope this is not some silly joke or something.” She said giving him a little glare.

***

Tara sat down at the table in Buffy’s kitchen she was watching Buffy prepare breakfast for them all. Willow was upstairs just trying to find some of Tara’s clothes that had been put away in storage following her death.

It was taking some getting used the fact that she had been dead; she only had very faint memories of pain and suddenly find herself in the graveyard. Most of her memories involved the day spent making love to Willow, she felt herself smile at those memories. The soft touch of Willow’s skin against her own, the tender passionate kisses and the lovemaking.

“Tara?” Buffy called out to her. “Tara?”

Tara stirred herself from the pleasant memories. “Sorry Buffy, I was miles away.”

Buffy smiled. “Thinking about Willow huh?”

“You could tell?” Tara said a little flushed.

“I’ve seen that look in your eyes many times Tara, every time you either look at Willow or are thinking about her.” Buffy replied. “Promise me you two won’t be apart again ok?”

Tara nodded. “I can promise you that, we need each other Buffy.”

“I know you do, I know that with you here and alive Willow might actually start to heal.” Buffy said.

“I know she told me what happened when I d d died.” Tara said a little sadly. “She was worried I would leave her again, but I can’t do that Buffy, she needs me now more than ever, and I need her.”

“I’m glad; at least something good has happened for change.” Buffy sighed.

Tara looked a little concerned. “What did you mean earlier about, From beneath you it devours.”

Buffy looked away for a moment. “Something’s coming Tara, something big and it’s going to be bad.”

“Nothing changes around here does it?” Tara said softly.

Buffy looked up into Tara’s blue eyes. “Something’s do, you’re alive Tara, that’s a miracle in itself, thanks to Anya overhearing Willow.”

“I’m glad I’m here Buffy, whatever it is, we can face it together, and you, Willow and I, and we can do it.” Tara gave her a warm smile.

Buffy put her hands on Tara’s shoulder. “I know we can.” She then remembered the breakfast. “Tara you had go better get that girlfriend of yours as breakfast is nearly ready.”

Tara nodded. “Sure, I’ll go see what’s keeping her.”

Upstairs

Willow stood alone Buffy’s bedroom, she still felt a little nervous about going into the room as it was where Tara had died.

She felt a cold chill running through her body looking around at the room. She lowered her down to look the carpet, it had been well cleaned but kneeling down and staring closer she could see a little trace’s of blood on a few of fibre’s. Was it Tara’s blood, was this the spot where she died.

“Willow your shirt.” She heard a distant echo of her lover’s voice in the room. She looked around the room again, but it was empty save for just herself.

She stood up and walked over to the window pane; she looked out into the garden and saw the bench there. She had seen Buffy and Xander talking right before Warren had come in waving a gun. He had fired a couple of shots, one hitting Buffy and the other hitting Tara.

Buffy had lived the shot had badly injured her, but Tara had died the bullet struck her heart and she died almost instantly. With her finger she traced the outline of one of the window panes, it felt cold to the touch.

Closing her eyes for a moment, she breathed out slowly. It was in the past now, Tara was alive and home thanks to Anya.

Home was in the arms of Tara her lover, where she had found some peace at last. The guilt of her murder of Warren and Rack still ached in her heart, but she felt peace whenever she was with Tara.

Tara had forgiven her and she had vowed never to leave her alone again. She was still terrified of her own power, still afraid to use it, in case the darkness tried to take over again. She knew she had to let that go, Tara was alive, and with Tara’s help and love she knew she could win back her confidence and never again fall into the darkness.

“Tara, I love you so much sweetie.” Willow whispered softly.

“Hey you.” Tara called to her from the doorway.

“Hey.” Willow replied smiling.

Tara could see the troubled look on her girlfriends face, even through the smile. “What’s wrong sweetie?”

Willow broke into a smile. “Nothing now, you’re here.”

Tara approached her and brought her arms around the redhead’s waist. “Memories?” She asked her.

“Yeah, it’s kind of weird being here, I mean this is where you died.” Willow said a sad expression on her face.

Tara kissed her softly on her lips. “Willow, I’m here, I’m not dead.”

She took one of Willow’s hands and placed it over her breast, Willow could feel the beating of Tara’s heart beneath her breast, the steady rhythm felt like magic to the tips of her fingers.

“See, I’m alive.” Tara breathed softly.

“I love you Tara Maclay.” Willow said gazing into her lovers blue eyes.

“I love you too Willow Danielle Rosenberg.” Tara replied. She paused for a moment then she spoke again. “Hey sorry to break the moment, but Buffy asked me to come find you as breakfast is ready.”

“What are we having?” Willow asked, not wanting to break the embrace with Tara.

“You’re favourite, pancakes.” Tara replied.

“Sounds yummy.” Willow grinned. “Let’s go before Buffy eats all of them.”

“Willow, do you know what happened to my clothes after, um well I died.” Tara said, the fact she had died made her feel a little uncomfortable.

“Buffy put them in the loft; we can get them out later or maybe go shopping for new clothes.” Willow suggested.

“Shopping sounds nice.” Tara said smiling.

“It’s settled then, pancakes, shopping, mochas and snuggles.” Willow giggled.

“We can skip the mochas if you want.” Tara laughed. “Snuggles sound a lot nicer.”

They broke the embrace and Tara took Willow’s hand and they made their way to the kitchen. Buffy had prepared pancakes, syrup and toast with plenty of orange juice.

“There you two are, I was beginning to think you two had other things on your mind.” Buffy winked.

“Buffy I don’t know how you could think such a thing.” Willow said in mock horror.

“Hanging around Spike I guess, too much of a smutty mind.” Buffy sighed. “I hope Xander and Anya get back soon with Dawn.” She added, she wanted to see the reaction on her young sister’s face when she saw Tara.

“I’m sure they’ll be back soon Buffy.” Willow said. “Tara and I are planning to go shopping later, get Tara some new clothes.”

“Well I have most of Tara’s stuff still in the loft, so I can get that down, and sort out what you want to keep.” Buffy said.

Tara took a couple of pancakes and poured syrup on them, then she took another two and placed them on Willow’s plate. Willow smiled gratefully and sat down next to her.

They ate breakfast together Tara ate slowly as did Willow, while Buffy managed to eat several pancakes in the time it took the wiccans to manage just one.

Tara sipped her juice and she looked as she heard a car pulling up outside the front of the house, she smiled as she hoped it would be Dawn. Willow placed her hand on the blondes arm ready, Buffy stood up and ate another bite of her toast as she walked to the door.

She opened the door to see Dawn walking up the driveway, Anya and Xander close behind her. “Hi Dawn.” She greeted her sister.

“Buffy, what is the emergency, what’s happened that you needed Xander to pull me out of class?” She asked. “I kinda had a fun day planned.”

“Dawn this is important, you had better come and sit down ok.” Buffy told her.

Dawn sighed and rolled her eyes and walked into the lounge and sat down on the couch. “Fine ok whatever.”

“Everything ok Anya?” Buffy asked her.”

“Dawn was more than a little curious to find out what happened, but we told her zippo.” Anya said proudly.

“Thank you, tell you what there is breakfast in the kitchen, so go help yourself ok.” Buffy said to her.

“Thanks, I am hungry, coming Xander?” She said.

“Oh yeah sure.” He turned to Buffy. “Good luck.” He added.

Dawn looked a little worried now. “Buffy what is going on, and how come Anya is here?”

Buffy sat down on the chair opposite. “Dawn something has happened, something amazing.” She began. “We have Anya to thank for this too.”

Dawn looked puzzled now. “Why, Buffy just tell me please.”

Buffy nodded. “Tara’s alive.”

Dawn’s face went pale at hearing her name, the image of finding the blonde’s body laying a pool of blood was a memory she wanted to forget. “That’s not funny Buffy.”

“Dawn I’m serious, I got a shock this morning too when I found out, but Tara is alive she is safe and well.”

The younger Summers girl’s eyes went wide. “Oh my god, where is she, does Willow know?”

“I’m here Dawnie.”

Dawn turned to see Tara standing in the doorway with Willow next to her holding her hand. “Tara?”

“Hey Dawn.” Tara said smiling.

“Oh my god Tara.” With that, she stood and ran straight into Tara’s welcoming arms. Tara hugged her close while Dawn buried her face in Tara’s blonde hair. “It’s you, you’re ok, your not dead oh my god this is incredible.”

“I’m fine Dawnie, I really here.” Tara said.

“This is so amazing, oh god how?” Dawn asked feeling dizzy at knowing Tara wasn’t dead.

“Anya, she gave me another chance to live, she heard Willow wish that I wasn’t dead, she granted it.” Tara explained. “It’s pretty amazing.”

Dawn raised her head and looked up into Tara’s eyes. “Oh god Tara, I am so happy to see you.”

“I’m glad to see you Dawnie.” Tara said warmly.

Dawn could feel a few tears in her eyes. “Oh my god, Tara I was the one who found you dead.”

“Dawn its ok, it’s in the past now, I’ve here and I’m not going anywhere ok, I promise.” Tara reassured her.

Dawn gave her another hug and turned to see a very happy Willow, she hadn’t seen Willow this happy since the day that she and Tara had reconciled. “Oh god Willow, this is amazing.”

“I know Dawn; I can’t tell you how amazing this is.” Willow said.

Dawn broke from Tara’s warm embrace and hugged Willow close. “Oh god are you two still together.”

Tara put her hand on Dawn’s shoulder. “Dawnie, Willow and I belong together, no matter what; we love each other very much.”

Dawn squealed with delight. “I love you two.”

After a few moments she let go of Willow and turned back to Tara, she had the biggest grin on her face at seeing them together and alive. She then went into the kitchen to find Anya.

“Anya?” Dawn asked.

“Hi Dawn.” Anya greeted her.

Dawn just threw her arms around the very surprised former demon. “Anya you’re amazing, just one thing how come Willow didn’t wish this before?”

“Because she knew I was a vengeance demon, and we don’t give life, we take it.” Anya said. “Giving life is not our job; Willow knew this that’s why she never asked me, because she knew she couldn’t.”

“So how did you do it?” Dawn asked confused.

“Because I chose to break the rules, I overheard Willow say she wished Tara wasn’t dead, so I made a choice to break those rules and bring Tara back.”

“Won’t they be angry with you?” Dawn asked.

“Very, they will try and kill me now, and I have lost my powers, but I am happy with what I did.” Anya said proudly.

Dawn hugged her a little tighter. “Well I think you are fantastic Anya.”

“Thank you, I often thought so myself, but its nice to hear someone else say it.” She grinned.

Xander laughed. “Yeah you are pretty amazing.”

Anya threw him a little sour look. “You couldn’t have figured that out before you left me at the alter?”

“Well we all make mistakes Anya, even me.” He said. “I’m sorry Anya.”

“Forget it for now, this is happy time.” Anya said, brightening up the mood. “Tara’s alive.”

“No argument there.” He said smiling.

Buffy followed them all into the kitchen and stood leaning on the doorway. Willow was standing there holding Tara’s hand, Dawn on her other side holding Tara’s other hand. Anya was smiling as was Xander. “Looks like I have my family back.” She said quietly to herself.

-----

Rachel

[Willowtree252]

dibs well I need willow and tara loven soon please !!!!!I I love this cant wait to see where its going. you are doing great keep it up love the fast updates and what ever you do dont stop thanks

[Thianne]

second dibs! i love this story.

Buffy sat down on the bed, and brushed aside a few strands of the blonde wiccans hair.

i love that you mentioned the love that buffy has for tara, they were friends and it's nice to see that in a fic.
update soon please!

[WillowsGirlXX]

Chapter five

Later in the afternoon.

A road outside Sunnydale.

Jonathan Levinson sat in the driver’s seat of the old car they had bought. His best friend Andrew sat beside him, he was shifting nervously in his seat. They where getting closer and closer to Sunnydale, and he was still frightened about what had happened to them the last time they where here.

Andrew stared out the windshield of the car and sighed. “You keep circling around. Just? Just drive straight in.”

Jonathan kept his eyes on the road. “Will you shut up? We gotta keep it low pro.”

Andrew whined. “You're just scared.”

“Of course I'm scared. Last time we were here, 33.3 percent of us were flayed alive.” Jonathan said, the fear was evident in his voice. He remembered Anya telling him that a very pissed off Willow Rosenberg had just killed their best friend.

“Calm down. No one's getting flayed alive. We got a plan. We're gonna fix all that.” Andrew said, trying his best to reassure his friend.

“Wish I'd have stayed in Mexico.” Jonathan admitted.

“Ah, I didn't like it there. Everybody spoke Mexicalan.” Andrew said absently. He was watching the desert go by; already in the distance he could see the outskirts of town.

“You could've learned it. You learned the entire Klingon dictionary in two and a half weeks.” Jonathan reminded him.

“That had much clearer transitive and intransitive rules, OK? Besides, I can't keep having those nightmares.” Andrew said sounding a little upset.

“Me neither. Desde abajo te debora.” Jonathan said.

Andrew frowned. "It eats you starting with your bottom."

“Gonna make it right.” Jonathan said softly.

“We're outlaws with hearts of gold.” Said Andrew out loud, his voice dreamy, thinking about how they were going to be heroes.

Jonathans eyes, widened as they drove past the "Welcome to Sunnydale" street sign. “Well looks like we’re back in Sunnydale.”

“Holy crap, I hope Darth Rosenberg isn’t still mad at us.” Andrew said, he was really worried now. The idea of running into the dark haired Willow was enough to send shivers up and down his spine. “I bet she’s still evil.”

“I hope not, I don’t think my bladder could cope with that.” Jonathan told him.

“Ewwwww.”

“It’s not far now, we should find a room and waiting until nightfall, then we can get into the high school.” Jonathan said quickly changing the subject.

“Good sooner we get this done, sooner we can get out of here again.” Andrew said. He reached into jacket just feeling the sharp edges of the blade, he had to make sure it was safe or else everything would fall apart. “Almost time.” He thought to himself.

***

Buffy walked into the lounge with a cup of coffee in her hand, she saw her sister cuddled up on the sofa next Tara. Willow was the other side her arm firmly linked into her lovers.

“Hey girls.” Buffy said smiling. “You three look all snugly together.”

Dawn giggled. “Hey this is great.”

“Worth busting you out of school for?” Buffy said smiling.

“Oh defiantly, this is the best thing we are all together again.” Dawn said proudly.

“Tara.” Buffy said turning to her friend.

“Yes Buffy.”

“Don’t ever leave us please, in the past year or so we have been through hell, my mom’s death, me, then you dying and Willow in pain. Having you back is the best thing that’s happened in so long.” Buffy told her.

“I’m not going anywhere I promise Buffy, you’re my family my real family. Here I have wonderful friends, and the most beautiful girlfriend I could wish for.” Tara said.

Buffy caught the smile on Willow’s face; she had blushed red at hearing her girlfriends compliment. Willow snuggled a little closer to Tara and gave her a little kiss on the cheek. Buffy was happy to see Willow returning to her bubbly self at last, even though Tara had only been back in her life a day the change was amazing.

“I’m glad Tara I really am.” Buffy said smiling. “I defiantly think a certain Ms Rosenberg is happy again.”

“Darn tootin I am.” Willow grinned. “Still want to go shopping baby?” She said to her girlfriend.

“Sounds good, although I guess my money in the bank got frozen when I died.” Tara said, remembering she had been dead for several months.

Willow softly stroked her arm for a moment. “Sorry sweetie I forgot about that, some of it was used to pay for your funeral…” Her voice trailed off. “Don’t worry we’ll work something out.”

“Actually Giles paid for her funeral, he gave me the money for safe keeping, I still have it in my account, so tell you what, I’ll drive you into town and get out the money that belongs to you Tara.” Buffy said. “Least I can do for you.”

Tara gave Buffy a huge smile. “Thank you so much Buffy.”

“That’s ok, plus there is the money from the Magic Box insurance too, Anya got about half and Giles gave me some as well, so happy to give you a little from that to help out get back on your feet.” Buffy told her.

“Wow thank you.” Tara was overwhelmed by the gesture, she then frowned. “Um what happened to the magic box?”

Willow went a little ashen faced; she untangled herself from Tara and turned to face her. “I kinda wrecked it.”

“Oh.” Tara said surprised. “I guess that happened just after I was shot?”

“Yeah, sorry.” Willow looked saddened.

Tara pulled the wiccan into an embrace and held her tight. “Willow, I said it was in the past, together we can work on developing your powers.”

“Together?”

“Always together, which reminds me, I owe you a huge apology anyway Willow.” Tara told her.

Willow look puzzled. “No you don’t Tara.”

Tara took her hand. “I do, I was wrong to leave you over magic, I I should have stayed and helped you.”

“Tara I...”

“Willow I am sorry, and I really hope you can forgive me.” Tara said.

“Oh god yes of course I do, I love you Tara.” Willow told her.

“I love you too, that’s why no matter what we are going to work this out together.” Tara said. “Ok?”

Willow leaned forward and kissed her firmly on the lips. “Ok.”

“You two belong together.” Buffy said. “How come I keep dating losers and you Willow end up with the perfect partner?”

“Awww poor Buffy.” Willow said at the pouting slayer. “Well you did date two vampires, and a guy who had a chip in his chest. Oh oh Spike had one in his head too, and I am pretty sure Angel had one on his shoulder.” She said babbling away.

Tara laughed. “Willowbabble, I do love that.”

“I was babbling?” Willow gave her a puppy dog look.

Tara kissed her again. “You were sweetie, but don’t ever stop either.”

Willow laughed. “Well Buffy, you should take your own advice, about you know going with out boyfriends.”

“When did I say that?” Buffy protested.

“Um a couple of years ago I think at your birthday.” Tara said remembering.

“Oh yes, I did say that didn’t I.” Buffy said. “That was just after Riley left me.”

Dawn sat up she looked at her watch sighed and then sunk back into the couch. It was early in the afternoon now and she was hoping that her friend would be out of school and home in a couple of hours.

“You ok Dawn?” Her sister asked her.

“Fine just checking the time that’s all.” She replied.

Buffy stood up and checked her own watch; she then faced the two wiccans sitting on the couch. “Well you two lovebirds, I think we had better get into town, I need to get out some money so you girls can do some shopping.”

“Can I come too?” Dawn asked her sister.

Buffy glanced at the two wiccans who gave her a nod and a smile; she then faced her sister again. “Sure ok Dawn.”

“Great, I’ll just go and get my purse and change my top ok.” Dawn said as she jumped off the couch and ran up the stairs to her room. Buffy followed her up the stairs as she headed to her own room to grab the car keys and her bank details so she could sort out a little money for Tara and Willow.

In the lounge Willow turned to her girlfriend. “Tara?”

“Yes honey.”

“After we’ve been shopping and you know maybe some supper, how about an early night?” She said biting her lower lip.

Tara put her best attempt at shock; she pouted and put her hands on her hips. “Are you suggesting we go to bed and sleep?”

Unfortunately she then burst into giggles and Willow couldn’t help but laugh as well. Willow just wrapped her arms around her waist and pulled Tara close to her body. She just looked up into Tara’s blue eyes and smiled. “No I want to make love to you all night sweetie.”

“Make love all night?” Tara said smiling. “Sounds like heaven.”

“I want to spend all day in bed tomorrow, plenty of snuggles and making love.”

Tara just brushed a lock of Willow’s hair and kissed her. “Vixen.”

Later that day.

Buffy had drawn out enough money to allow Tara to get some new clothing and get herself back on her feet again. She and Dawn had let the two wiccans go off on their own for a while to get a few items; they would then meet back up at the expresso pump in a while for a coffee.

Buffy had bought herself a few new clothes as had Dawn, they both just wanted to sit down and relax for a while before Willow and Tara met back up with them.

Dawn was sitting down just stirring her drink with a stick, she was feeling so much happier now and Buffy could tell that from the expression on her face.

“Buffy can I ask you something?” Dawn asked.

“Sure Dawn, you can ask me anything.” Buffy replied.

Dawn twirled the stick around in her drink for a moment before she looked into Buffy’s eyes. “If you could have made a wish what you would have chosen?””

Buffy sighed for a moment. “I don’t know Dawn; there are a lot of things I guess.”

“Would you have chosen Tara?” Dawn asked her.

Buffy nodded. “Yes, I mean she is part of the family really, she dotes on you, been a good friend to me and everyone.” She smiled. “No need to talk about how much she changed Willow.”

“Yeah totally adorable I know as a couple.” Dawn said. “I’m glad she chose Tara over Oz.”

“Me too, hey maybe one day we will find we will find perfect love with someone.” Buffy said.

Dawn felt like she wanted to tell her sister something but she backed down, it didn’t feel like the right time to say anything just yet. She just nodded. “Yeah be nice.”

Buffy could tell that Dawn had something on her mind; she reached out with her hand and rested on her sister’s hand. “Dawn is something bothering you?”

“No it’s just been quite a day really, you know Tara being alive so happy to see Willow back with her again.” Dawn said. “I wouldn’t give that up for anything.”

“You have but face Dawn.” Her sister said.

Dawn just sighed. “I just never really had a proper date.”

“Dawn your only seventeen.” Buffy reminded her.

“I know but hey you were dating Angel at that age.” Dawn told her. “And you slept with him.”

Buffy sank back in her chair for a moment. “I know Dawn; I remember that, he turned evil.”

“Sorry Buffy.”

“Hey it’s ok, I guess Willow was right, I need to think about moving on, find someone special for me.” Buffy said.

Dawn agreed. “Yeah that’s all I want too.”

“Dawn have you met someone?” Buffy said. “She could see the little glint in her eye.”

Dawn went ashen faced and instantly Buffy could see that her sister was interested in someone. “Busted huh Dawnie?”

“I’m doomed.” Dawn said. She then breathed a sigh of relief as she saw Willow and Tara coming over towards them. “Hey girls.”

Buffy rolled her eyes. “Damn it.” She thought to herself. “Wiccan’s to Dawn’s rescue.”

“Hi Buffy, Hi Dawnie.” Tara greeted them.

“Hey girls.” Willow said cheerfully. “All ok for drinks?”

“Hi girls.” Buffy said. “Wow you two buy the store or something?” She said pointing to the large bags they were carrying.

Willow blushed. “We kinda splurged, ok who wants a coffee?”

“I’m fine thank you.” Dawn replied.

“I could use another.” Buffy admitted. She still felt frustrated that she hadn’t been able to get Dawn to confess about a possible romance.

“Mint Mocha please.” Tara said.

“Ok I’ll be back in a moment.” Willow said and walked off to get the drinks.

Tara sat down and left a seat clear for when Willow returned. “Did you two buy much?”

“Dawn got a few things, and I desperately needed some new underwear.”

“Have you been waiting long for us?” Tara asked.

Dawn shook her head. “No not that long, we were just talking.” She said and instantly regretted saying it.

“Yes were where talking, about Dawn’s possible boyfriend.” Buffy said, a sly grin on her face.

“Buffy!” The teenager shouted. “I don’t have a boyfriend.”

“I said possible boyfriend.” Buffy corrected her.

Willow returned with the coffees and she sensed the slight tension in the air around Buffy and her sister. “Um everything ok guys?” She asked setting down the drinks. She handed one to Buffy and other to her girlfriend.

Dawn sat there looking a little upset; this was not how she wanted things to go. “Fine I guess.”

Buffy just looked at her sister. “Willow, we were just curious about the possible young man in Dawn’s life that’s all.”

“Oooh Dawnie.” Willow teased. “What’s he like?”

Dawn couldn’t hold back any longer, she hoped Buffy would understand and she knew that Willow and Tara would be ok. She took a deep breath and looked straight into her sister’s eyes. “Buffy please I’ll tell you but please don’t freak out ok?”

“Dawn, nothing you say is going to make me freak out, ok unless your dating a vampire.” Buffy told her.

Willow glanced at Tara and winked, from the moment Dawn had said don’t freak out to her sister they both knew what was coming. Willow reached out and rested her hand on Dawn’s; she gave her a knowing smile.

“Buffy I am not dating anyone, but I am interested in someone.” Dawn said. “Her name is Kit, you’ve met her before.”

“A girl?” Buffy asked somewhat surprised. “You like a girl?”

“Yes I like a girl, we just really clicked that’s all Buffy, I like her and I know she likes me.” Dawn said.

Buffy relaxed. “That’s the girl you met at the high school right?”

Dawn nodded. “Yes that’s her, does that freak you out?”

“God no Dawn of course it doesn’t.” Buffy said reassuring her sister. “She’s a nice girl Dawn, and…” She paused a moment. “Ah that’s the girl you talk to most nights as well?”

“Yeah that’s her.” Dawn admitted.

“Dawnie, when did this all happen?” Willow asked her.

“Few days ago we had a little talk and I don’t know we kissed.” Dawn said.

“Oh my god you kissed.” Willow said.

“I’ve had feelings for her for a while now.” Dawn told them.

Tara pulled Dawn into a hug and stroked her hair. “Oh Dawnie, I’m so pleased for you, I really am.”

Willow was grinning all over her face. “Dawn, well I hope you two girls can make a go of it, have you asked her out yet?”

Dawn shook her head. “Not yet, planned to today though.”

Buffy stood up and walked round to her sister, she gave her sister a little kiss on the forehead. “Well Dawn, you’d better give her a call or at least invite her over, then ask her out.”

“You mean you really don’t mind me seeing a girl?” Dawn asked again mostly just to make sure she wasn’t dreaming.

“Absolutely not Dawn, I am happy for you.” Buffy said. “Dawn I love you, as long as you’re happy I don’t mind at all ok?”

“Thank you Buffy, I love you too.”

Tara turned to Willow. “Well looks like we aren’t the only lesbians around here now.”

“Hey I have you baby, that’s all I care about.” Willow said and kissed her girlfriend on the lips.

Buffy grinned at Dawn. “Well I guess I’ll have to get used to more of this in the house.”

“Buffy!” Laughed Dawn.
***

Later that night in the Sunnydale High School basement.

“This thing is pretty big you know?” Andrew said, “I did think it would be so much hard work digging it out.” He wiped his forehead with his sleeve.

“I just hope that Buffy will know how to destroy it.” Jonathan said, he was a little worried. “Do you think she can do it?”

“I don’t know.” Andrew said, he glanced around him to see the figure of Warren standing nearby just smiling at him.

“It’s so weird being back here you know, back in the high school, in a way I kind of missed it.” Jonathan told him. “I miss my friends. I miss my enemies. I miss the people I talked to every day. I miss the people who never knew I existed. I miss 'em all. I want to talk to them, you know. I want to find out how they're doing. I want to know what's going on in their lives.”

Andrew caught the look on Warren’s face, in his pocket he could still feel the sharp blade. It was almost time, he could see the reassuring look on Warren’s face. He nodded and turned back to Jonathan. “You know what? They don't wanna talk to you? All those people you just mentioned. Not one of them is sitting around going, "I wonder what Jonathan's up to right now." Not one of them cares about you.”

Jonathan looked a little hurt, but he smiled and carried on. “Well, I still care about them. That's why I'm here.”

He carried on digging, Andrew too picked up his shovel to uncover the last parts of the huge circular metal disk, and it was an inverted pentagram with a large goat’s head symbol.

When they had finished, Andrew looked back to where Warren was standing, he was still invisible to Jonathan. Andrew reached into his coat pocket and firmly gripped the handle of the sharp blade. He could tell this was the moment that Warren had prepared him for.

“I think we’ve done it, maybe it’s time to go get Buffy.” Jonathan said, he set down the shovel and picked up his bag.

Andrew put his arm on Jonathan’s shoulder, his hand steady now on the blade. Jonathan looked up into his friends eyes, he suddenly recognised the figure of Warren standing behind Andrew, and his eyes registered shock.

“Oh my god.” Jonathan said. “Warren!”

Jonathan didn’t see it coming, with one swift movement of his hand Andrew pulled the knife from his coat and thrust it straight into Jonathan’s belly cutting him deep. Jonathan’s eyes went wide, he’s looked at Andrew with horror.

Andrew let him go and he watched as Jonathan his eyes filled with betrayal fell backwards onto the metal disk. He was dead, blood seeping out from under him onto the surface.

Warren looked on in approval as the seal began to glow slightly. “The force is with us.”


Chapter five finally done
Rachel

[Sahugani]

I have to say that I realy like both this fic and your other one, Togeter Forever, they are almost perfect parralels, but it will be intresting to see see how the story is affected simply by the differant ways Tara has been reinserted into the world.

[WillowsGirlXX]

I have to say that I realy like both this fic and your other one, Togeter Forever, they are almost perfect parralels, but it will be intresting to see see how the story is affected simply by the differant ways Tara has been reinserted into the world.

HIyas

Yeah they are similar and you got it spot on, they will be very different because of the ways i have brought Tara back, one will loosly follow season seven the other will be very different as things progress

Glad you like them, i just couldnt leave Tara dead, she by rights belongs alive and well in the arms of Willow

Rachel

[DaddyCatALSO]

I just read this...honestly I was worried at first that Tara might have to get up for, uh, some reason during the night and Buffy or Dawn running into her in the hallway. Thankg oodness you handled that more easily.
I'm enjoying comparing the various ways this (and other Tara-rerturn fics) handle spreeading the news amongst the gang.It's nice to see how different writers handle thaqt. (*"If* I ever get mine written I just take the easy way out and have an ancient god both take care of the public records and also put the necessary knowledge right into everyone's heads.) This graduall notification one at a time really works well tho.
Semi-quibble about D'Hoffryn;I'm sure Vengeance Demons can restotre life easily enough, as long as it accomplishes the ultimate goal of making the world more evil and unpleasant.(I actually explored that idea myself elsewhere.) Bravo to Anya for pushing the rules despite the cost!
Poor Jonatahn;he can't seem to win in *any* universe. (Hey, I identify with the guy, what can I say?)

[Willowtree252]

This is wonderful and also your other one too more soon please

[PancakesinBellies]

I'm enjoying both your current WIPs, and think that the different directions in which they are going should allow for some exciting explorations of what 'might have been.' Or 'what should have been,' whichever the case may be. I could easily see this story spinning off into a completely different AU, unlike "Together Forever" which has so far followed S7 episodes (with a nifty Tara-twist) . Keep those updates coming! (Please.)