Brown Eyes Blue

See Part 1 for Ratings and Disclaimers

Bare

Tara looks from one nervous girl to the other as she takes Kennedy's hand as well. "Relax-this will be okay. Now-we're gonna drop the robes on three-okay?" Willow looks at her blonde with panic on her face.

But it is Kennedy who speaks, "I can't-"

"You can-besides you're the one with the robe untying remember?" Tara smiles.

"I was just being a teenager-acting before I thought it through." She looks down at her feet.

Tara looks at Willow, "Willow, Sweetie-"

Willow's eyes meet Tara's and she sees the love there. "Okay-" her voice is barely a whispers and shaky. Kennedy looks up at them both. She sees Tara's reassuring smile and Willow's belief in her blonde. "Okay-" the word more confident.

"We could wait till the ritual-" tries the younger woman. She can't help the smile that starts to cross her face, "No we couldn't cause my mind would just be all-" she stops as she blushes slightly. Willow blushes too as she realizes where her mind would be.

"So we're ready?" asks Tara looking from Willow to Kennedy and back again.

"Yeah," they say in unison as they both unconscientiously lick their lips.

Tara smiles and lets go of their hands. "On three-" they nod as they each put their hands on the tie of the robe. "One-" they each loosen the tie. "Two-" they let it fall away. "Three." Her voice a little less sure. They drop their robes to the floor. The room is silent as they look everywhere but at each other. Willow's eyes lock on her blonde and Tara smiles. "See nothing to it." She takes her girl's hand again and their fingers lace instinctively. She kisses her lips softly.

Kennedy's eyes rest on her own feet. "So-that's out of the way. We should go to bed now-" panicking at her own words, she amends- "You two to your bed and me not-I stay here."

Willow and Tara look toward her at the same time and each take a deep breath. Willow licks her lips again and her mind replays the pictures of she and Kennedy together. "Beautiful," she whispers, "just like the dreams." She shifts her eyes from Kennedy to her blonde. The redhead is worried that her words might hurt her lover, but she watches as Tara simply smiles.

"Kennedy for this to work, I think you need to actually look at us," Tara reaches for the younger woman's hand. Their fingers lock, "It's okay."

Kennedy raises her eyes in the direction of the voice. Working her way up Tara's body in the process. Her eyes scan shapely legs, soft blonde curls, and a slightly toned stomach before locking on the blonde's ample breasts. She can't stop the slight groan from her throat and she blushes instantly, as does Tara. "Kennedy," her eyes finally move to meet Tara's.

"Sorry-I-" she hesitates.

Willow finishes for her completely understanding her dilemma, "I think the first time I saw-" she blushes and Tara smiles, "It's easy to get distracted."

"Wow-" she finds herself staring again.

Willow frowns playfully, "Hey-"

Kennedy looks at the redhead ready to apologize for the second time but stops, as she looks the woman up and down and then up again. Willow looks down and starts to cross her arms over her chest. "No-don't-" she smiles. Willow relaxes.

"So, are we ready to try the meditation?" asks Tara.

"That's why we're here-right?" says Willow. Kennedy nods and the three walk toward the bed hand-in-hand-in-hand with Tara in the middle.

"Freckles-" whispers Kennedy with a smile. "Very lickable."

"Did you say something?" asks Tara as they sit in a circle on the bed.

"Just-nothing," answers the young Slayer-to-be.

Willow takes over. "Cleansing breath," you can hear the intake and exhaling of air as the three women try to compose themselves. Hands linked they attempt to concentrate on Willow's words. "Close your eyes and see the clouds-feel the calm."

Kennedy tries to see clouds but her mind races with images of Tara and Willow standing in front of her. "I can't-"

Willow reassures her, "You're on the beach looking up at the sky-feel the sun and the sand-the clouds are above you."

The picture begins to slowly materialize for the teenager. "There-I see it."

"That's good-" whispers Willow.

Tara struggles with images of her own-hers mostly include Willow and Kennedy together, touching-caressing. "Will-?"

"It's okay baby-see the field and the horses tied next to the fence. Now look up at the beautiful sky-" she gives Tara a minute- "See it baby?"

"They look like balloons-and-"

Willow focuses on the clouds fighting her mind to keep the thoughts of the two women surrounding her away. 'Just clouds-soft fluffy-' she smiles.

An hour later three in tune but tired women open their eyes. Tara is the first to speak, "Wow-we did it," she can't help but smile.

Kennedy smiles, "Then we're ready right?"

"Never readier-the readiest." Willow's nervousness just below the surface.

"We should get some sleep then." Kennedy adds, "Why does this make me so tired?"

Tara looks at the brunette, "The concentration-it's mentally draining-plus it relaxes you." She looks at the redhead beside her as she feels her lean on her shoulder. "Let's get you to bed, Will-"

She whines, "Sleepy-can't move."

"Then stay," says Kennedy as she scoots up the bed and rests her head on the pillow. Willow follows her and lies her head on the pillow next to the younger woman. Tara decides to join them. She moves up to the pillow and tucks herself in between her redhead and Kennedy. Willow snuggles against her and they all close their eyes.

"Are things in order?" asks Althennea as she enters the ritual room.

"All is as it should be," answers Hannah. Althennea misses the woman's cold smile. The older woman checks the ingredients and then looks over the written words of the spell. Hannah leaves quietly.

In the safety of a hidden passage she meets the demon. "Are things as we discussed?" he asks.

"Exactly. Where is your boss?"

"Around," he smiles. She doesn't realize the truth behind his words.

The three women sleep, unaware of the problems they are about to face. Tara is lying on her back, Willow is on her side with her head resting on Tara's chest and her arm across her girl's stomach. Kennedy lies in much the same way on the opposite side. Her head rests on the blonde and her arm is across her-her hand is linked with Willow's-their fingers connected. Tara slowly opens her eyes and can't help but smile at the two women against her. She runs her fingers through Willow's hair. The redhead stretches slightly and mumbles, "No-frogs in the ritual-"

"Shhh-it's okay sweetie." She moves slightly to kiss Willow's head.

Willow opens her eyes and smiles as she sees the blonde's breast in front of her. She playfully licks the underside and Tara gasped surprised. "Hey-" she looks up at the stunning blue eyes.

"Hey-you. That was nice."

"Like that huh?" again she smiles and starts to move but stops as she realizes she is holding someone's hand. She looks toward Kennedy and she remembers.

"She's still asleep," Tara assures.

Willow smirks and leans forward to take the tip between her lips. Tara bites her lip and arches slightly causing Kennedy to mumble. They both freeze and look to the woman. Willow looks back at Tara, "Later-"

"Definitely," she sighs as their lips meet in a soft kiss. Kennedy opens her eyes and sees the breast before her as she tries to back away she feels a hand hold her in place. She pulls her eyes up and sees Tara and Willow both smiling. "Sleep okay?" asks Tara.

"Yeah-and the waking up-wow." She composes herself. "Sorry-"

Tara sits up so she can see the clock, "Almost time."

"Guess we should get ready," Willow suggests.

"Quick shower?" asks Tara. The redhead nods and they get out of bed slowly.

Kennedy starts to pull the blanket around her but stops, not worried about her state of undress now, "Let me know when you get out?"

"Sure-" smiles Tara. As they go out of the room they pick up their robes.

Kennedy closes her eyes as the door shuts behind them. "Wow-" she mumbles again. 'Okay-enough of the horny teenager crap-concentrate Willow is counting on me-' she thinks to herself. She closes her eyes and refocuses on the task at hand.

Later the three stand in the chamber ready for the ritual. They are dressed in white ceremonial robes. They watch, holding hands, as the circle is drawn. They step in side when instructed. Kennedy tightens her hold on each hand. She smiles when she hears Tara's soft words in her head, 'Just like in your room.'

'Yeah-okay.' She smiles up at the blonde.

'Piece of cake-remember,' says Willow.

Althennea speaks, "Are you prepared to begin?"

"Yes-" is the redhead's single word answer.

"Then we shall begin," she moves to the corner as three others move as well. Each represents one of the Four Corners. "The robes-"

Without hesitation the three inside the circle remove them. As they fall to the floor Althennea begins the chant. "Whatever happens-don't let go of her hands." She cautions- "That connection holds her on this plane-it anchors her."

"Got it-" states Kennedy. Tara simply nods and leans forward to kiss her redhead.

The chanting begins again. The corners call the powers and the spell is started. Willow can feel herself being pulled in many directions. Scenes flash in her mind. Her first spell.

Tara feels the pull as well as she reaches with her mind to her love. 'Will-?'

'I'm okay baby-' she assures. 'Just don't leave me.'

'Always be here-'

Suddenly the Bringers are with Willow- 'How-?' she questions. In her thoughts she runs, trying to escape without her magic.

Kennedy watches her struggle for breath, 'What's happening?'

'Bringers-too many. I can't-'

Kennedy focuses her energy- 'Can you feel me?'

'Power-' Willow smiles.

'Use me to fight them.'

'I'll hurt you-'

'No-you won't,' Kennedy assures her. She stifles a cry as she feels the drain. Suddenly she sees Rich- 'You're not real.' Her focus slips and she hears Willow cry out in her mind. "You're not real," she screams as she turns her mind back to the redhead. She concentrates and releases her inner strength. The Bringers are destroyed.

Willow stumbles but Tara reaches forward and grabs her. "You're okay-I got you. It's over."

"Or not-" Kennedy looks at them as they all take in the ring of demons that enter the room. "I'm thinking they're not part of the ritual."

One flies against the wall as Althennea raises her arm. "We must continue. Form a barrier-" she instructs. Those around the circle do as they are told. The chanting begins again. As the demons are held at bay Willow feels herself being pulled again. Althennea's words fill her mind, 'What you are to face must be defeated without the use of the dark magics. Find the light.' Her words are gone.

Willow finds herself face to face with the Tara's lifeless body and sees a man standing over her with a gun. She feels her anger rise and as she moves toward him. Her eyes flash black.

Before Tara can assure her that she's okay she is stopped by a woman before her. "Mama?" she whispers.

Willow raises her hand to destroy the man responsible.

Safe

'He killed her-'

'Killed who?'

'Tara-' she answers. "Tara-" she mumbles out loud.

"No!" 'No-she's okay.' Kennedy tries to convince the redhead.

Willow can feel the darkness try to over take her. 'Tara, baby-?' still no answer as the blonde stares in disbelief at her mother.

"Mama-" Tara cries, "Is it really you?"

"Of course child-I've missed you."

"I've missed you too-Mama-I-" she tries to move toward the woman but Willow's hand in hers prevents it.

"Come to me child-" she holds out her arms.

"I can't-" Tara says though her heart wants to. "I have to hold on-" she looks at her hand laced with Willow's. "Can't let go."

"Of course you can-she'll understand."

Kennedy sees the woman and sees Tara start to let go of the redhead's hand. "Tara-" the blonde looks to her. "Don't let go-it's a trick. She's not real."

"She is-" states the blonde, "it's my mom."

"No-it's not. It's the First-fight him Tara, Willow needs you."

"Willow-" she sees the redhead her arm extended her eyes black, "goddess-Willow," she calls louder. "Don't!"

The redhead turns her eyes to the sound but she sees no one. Her mind races with emotions, filled with confusion. "Tara-How?" She starts to lower her hand but stops.

Her mind hears a voice cold and callous. He laughs, 'I killed her.'

"No-" the witch screams raising her hand again. 'I'll-kill-no' she struggles with the darkness. 'She's not-not dead.'

'She is, see the blood?'

She looks at the ground and sees the red-she kneels down. Outside her girl's mind Tara and Kennedy watch her kneel and they do the same, keeping contact with her. "Willow-" Tara tries but gets no response.

Willow touches the blood in her mind-feels the wetness, 'She's really dead-' her tears fall.

They see the tears and Tara begins to cry as well, "Sweetie-I'm here. Can't you feel me?" She squeezes her hand tighter.

Kennedy looks from the redhead to Tara, "She can't hear us-how can we stop her if she can't-"

"Together-" says the blonde. "With our minds-"

"I don't understand."

"Yes you do-close your eyes and don't let go." She looks to the joined hands. She puts her arm around Willow and Kennedy does the same. They join free hands in essence surrounding the redhead. "Concentrate." The younger girl nods and takes a deep breath. She lets it out slowly as the blonde does the same. 'Willow-' they say together.

The redhead looks up from the blood-her fingers red. 'Tara?'

'It's me-' says Tara. 'And Kennedy-we're here with you.'

'Can you feel us Will?' Asks the young Slayer-to-be.

'I can't see you-' she looks back at the body on the floor and the man over her. 'Tara's dead-'

'No sweetie I'm right here-' she moves even closer to the girl. 'Always.'

'Willow they're trying to trick you-we're here. Trust me-trust us-' Kennedy holds her tighter too.

Willow closes her eyes and tries to focus on the energy she is beginning to feel, 'Tara?'

'I'm here-'

'Your blood-on my hands-'

'No-' she kisses her hand and her tears fall.

Willow looks at her hands surprised to feel a familiar sensation. Tara-lips, she smiles. 'Tara you're really okay?'

'Yes-open your eyes.'

'They are but I just see-' she looks at the dead blonde on the floor. 'You're- de-'

Kennedy interrupts before they lose ground, 'No-I can see her-feel her hand in mine. Can you feel her hand Will?'

The redhead closes her eyes tight against the scene in front of her, the others watch. 'That's good-concentrate-' she can see the witch start to relax. She speaks out loud- "Can you hear me?"

Still in Kennedy's head, 'It's hard.'

"Not too hard for you-follow my voice-" states the teenager.

'You can do it Willow,' Tara adds.

'You'll be there?'

'We'll both be here-' the blonde smiles as her eyes meet Kennedy's and she squeezes her hand.

"Now Willow-come back to us-to Tara."

'Tara-got to focus-'

The voice shouts, 'Are you gonna leave her alone-cold?'

'It's not real-' thinks the redhead.

"Fight it Red-open your eyes."

"Come on sweetie-" Tara kisses Willow's cheek.

They watch as she struggles to open her eyes, "That's it open them-let me your beautiful green eyes," says Kennedy.

"You can do it Willow," assures Tara. She begins to smile and tears fall as she sees them flutter. Kennedy cries too- "Almost baby-" Willow's eyes open and meet Tara's-green on blue. "There you are-" she leans in and kisses Willow softly on the lips. "Oh-Will-" she kisses her again this time more urgent. Lips open and close together, as they break apart they look toward the younger girl-who is wrapped around them. Tara smiles at Kennedy and kisses her lips as well.

"We shouldn't-" she pulls back only to be met be Willow's lips. The kiss is slow and soft, "Willow-"

"It's okay-" Tara assures as she kisses her and then Willow lightly.

"Okay?" Kennedy asks.

"Okay-" Willow nods. They realize they have an audience and they all stand slightly blushing, hands still linked.

Kennedy is the first to sense more trouble. She scans the room and sees the demons still fighting to break the barrier of the witches. "Don't these guys ever give up?"

Willow shakes her head and Tara lets out a sigh. Althennea speaks, "Rituals are never simple anymore-"

"I've noticed. Need a hand?"

"If you're sure you've recovered sufficiently-"

"I think I can find a little something extra-" she looks from Tara to Kennedy and they both nod. "I'll make it up to you later," she says with a smirk. Tara returns it with her famous half smile while the younger girl blushes at the implied meaning. Willow focuses, she feels the energies of Tara and Kennedy mingle with hers-her breathing quickens as the power surges. "Incentio-" the demons burst into flames and disappear. The three woman collapse to the floor drained. Willow struggle for words, "May need a raincheck."

"We can do that-" replies Tara as she kisses her. Willow snuggles into the arms of both woman and is instantly asleep. Tara smiles at her redhead and then looks at Kennedy- "You okay?"

"Feel like Jell-O," she smiles. Tara smiles as she pulls the younger woman closer. Kennedy leans forward and kisses her softly without thinking. "Mmmm-sleep now."

"Yeah-" she smiles as the Slayer-to-be closes her eyes. The blonde looks up at Althennea. Her words enter the woman's mind, 'Is Willow safe?'

'She is-her power's stronger-she needs to be taught the ways, but she is safe.'

'Thank you-'

'We did nothing-' her eyes travel to Kennedy and then back to lock with Tara's steel blue. 'The three of you-you are destined.'

'Destined?' Tara seems unsure.

'A child-'

Tara speaks out loud, "The little girl Willow saw?"

"It is written-but many will try to stop it."

"Let'em try." She smiles and looks at the women sleeping against her. "Just let them try."

Hours later Kennedy is the first to open her eyes. She is surprised by two things-first, it is daylight-she turns her head away from the window. Second, that she is no longer on the floor. She tries to focus on the room, it seems familiar but not. When she looks at the bed she realizes she is not alone. Her eyes fall on Willow and then Tara. Memories of the kisses cause her to smile but it quickly fades. Doubt fills her-what did it mean? Her mind races with questions. Her smile returns as Tara's eyes open, "Morning," whispers the blonde and before she can reply she feels soft lips on hers. Tara pulls away with a half smile and bites her own bottom lip.

Kennedy can't help but smile a little bashful. "Morning-any idea how we got here?"

"The coven-kind of a group teleportation."

"Wow-so I'm guessing no clothes?"

"Doubt it-but I could check-" the blonde raises a playful eyebrow.

"It's okay-I should-" she looks toward the door to her room.

But before she can continue they hear Willow mumble in their sleep, "No-no-frogs in the cereal."

They both struggle to contain laughs, "She really doesn't like frogs-" whispers Tara.

"So it's a bad dream?"

"She has lots of bad dreams-" Tara looks a little sad and then presses a kiss to her girl's forehead. "It's okay sweetie," she whispers in the redhead's ear. "Sleep-"

Willow stretches and her eyes open slowly, "Morning-" she says her eyes still closed.

"Morning-" answers Tara and they kiss softly. Willow opens her eyes and smiles at her blonde and then at Kennedy. "Hey-you," Kennedy smiles, "Come here-"

Kennedy looks unsure but Tara smiles. The Slayer-to-be leans over the blonde and closes her eyes as Willow's lips touch hers. Kennedy moves back to her side of Tara. Willow can't stop smiling.

"What?" asks Kennedy.

"Never woke up in bed with two women before-"

"Neither have I-" states Tara. They both look at Kennedy and her lack of answer.

"What?" asks the girl again. They each raise an eyebrow. "Okay once-" she pulls the cover over her head as she flops back down. Willow and Tara just smile at each other.

"What was it like?" They ask in unison, Kennedy slowly uncovers her head surprised as her eyes meet theirs.

What's Next?

"Yeah-she should eat," she looks down at her redhead.

"So should you-" Kennedy smiles as Tara looks back up at her. "I won't be long." She closes the door as she leaves.

Tara whispers, "Sweetie?" But gets no response from Willow. With a wicked smile she slides a hand teasing up the redhead's body. Willow shifts into the touch and moans just barely heard. "Wake up Will-" her hand settles on her girl's breast.

Willow's eyes open and she starts to grumble but stops as Tara squeezes playfully. "Mmmm-"

"You awake?"

"Yeah-like waking up that way," she bites her bottom lip as Tara does the same to the other side. She turns her head and finds her blonde's lips and they kiss.

"We need to get out and dressed." She kisses her again as her hands explore the naked body against her.

"Now?" pouts Willow.

"Soon-" her fingers brush between soft folds and the redhead gasps.

"Goddess," she cries as the teasing continues. "Please-need you-" she leans against the blonde more as she tries to find release. Tara smiles and slides two fingers into her lover. "Yes-mmm-" her hips match the rhythm of her blonde's fingers.

Tara gasps surprised as she feels Willow's fingers on her and then in her, "Will-" she closes her eyes as the pace increases.

"So close-" pants Willow. "Together-okay?"

"Okay-" Tara tries to concentrate but can't as the redhead's fingers move faster, deeper. "Yes-baby so-" her words stop as she matches Willow's pace.

Willow feels her body start to shake, "Tara I-Oh-" she falls hard and Tara follows, Willow's name on her lips as well. "Lo-love you-" she pants.

"Love-you-" they kiss and touch as their bodies try to recover. "Willow-"

"Hmmm-?"

"What would you say if I wanted to stay here?"

"In the bubbles with me-like this?" She smiles as her fingers moves across slick folds.

"Stop that-" she smiles as she bites her bottom lip.

"Stop what?-This?" She presses her thumb against her clit- Tara moans and her head falls to Willow's shoulder, "Or this?" She teases at the blonde's entrance.

"Changed my mind-mmm-don't stop," she gasps as Willow slides her fingers home and begins a slow place. "Faster-"

"Slow-" her lips find Tara's.

The door opens and Kennedy smiles shaking her head, the Wicca's are startled by her voice in the room, "Don't you two ever get enough?" She rolls her eyes.

Tara forces her eyes open and Willow looks her way as well, "I have food-meet me in the garden in half an hour or it's all mine." She smiles and starts to leave, but stops. "I knew you'd eventually figure out what to do with the tub."

"Hey-" states Willow as they both mock glare at the young woman. She leaves with a laugh.

Willow's fingers move a little faster in and out and Tara is slowly getting lost. "We should get ready," she pants.

"Think you're more than ready," she smiles and moves faster still. She can feel Tara's muscles start to tighten around her- "So close-come on baby-"

"Will-I need-"

"I know what you need," she smiles and disappears under the water.

Tara cries out louder than before, "Willoooooooooow!"

Kennedy is sitting on a blanket under a tree eating a sandwich as she sees Willow and Tara approaching hand-in-hand. She smiles, "You barely made it," she states as they sit down in front of her crossing their legs in a lotus position and she eats the last of her peanut butter sandwich.

"Sorry-" says Tara with half smile.

"Right," she smiles knowingly, "the food's in the basket." She gets herself another sandwich and a few grapes.

"Grapes-my favorite," smiles Willow.

"Catch-" Kennedy holds up a grape and Willow holds out her hand. "Nah-open your mouth."

"No way-" Willow shakes her head.

Kennedy pouts, "And I thought you trusted me-"

"I do-it's just-" Willow looks from Tara to Kennedy-both are smiling. "Fine-" she opens her mouth and the younger woman throws the grape in the air. It bounces off the redhead's nose and lands in her lap.

"Oops-sorry," she makes a face, "Let me get that for you-" she starts to reach for it and stops realizing where it is. "Or not-" she laughs nervously. "Tara?"

The girl shrugs her shoulders- "You're on your own, I didn't put it there."

"But-" Kennedy starts and stops. She blushes slightly. "Willow-"

"I want my grape-" she states matter-of-factly.

Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly she moves closer to Willow. She looks into the redhead's eyes, "I don't think-"

"Good-stop the thinking." Willow kisses her softly on the lips as she does the young Slayer-to-be feels Tara's hands on her shoulders and then her lips against her neck.

As Willow pulls away Kennedy looks at her nervously, "We can't-"

"You don't want-" her words are unsure. Tara stops kissing Kennedy as well.

"That's not it-it's-the two of you are meant to be-like soul mates. Anyone can see that." She stands and looks from one to the other. "I don't want to mess that up."

Tara smiles and stands, she takes Kennedy's hand. "We talked, this is meant to be."

Kennedy looks unsure, and it is Willow who stands, then speaks. "Althennea-told Tara-we, the three of us-we're meant to be-"

"The three of us?" Kennedy's eyes meet Tara's and she nods.

"And we've been talking-" starts the redhead.

"Talking-is that what you call what was going on in the bubble bath?" She smirks her cockiness back. Willow swats her arm playfully- "Ow-you wait till I'm a Slayer," she pouts.

Tara smiles, "Willow and I are going to stay here awhile-she's going to train with the coven-"

Willow continues, "We'd-" she looks at Tara and takes her hand, "we'd like you to stay with us," she looks at Kennedy.

"Stay?" asks Kennedy. Tara nods. "Can I think about it?"

"Absolutely," assures the blonde.

"Cool-" she sits back down against the tree. Willow and Tara sit too, "So have you told Buffy-" their eyes meet- "About staying?"

"We called Giles but no answer-" she takes a bite of her sandwich. They eat for awhile in silence.

Kennedy's mind is racing. Wow-was she still asleep? Dreaming? No-it was real Willow and Tara wanted her-with them. Could she? Should she? Maybe-maybe not but wow!

Later they are still outside in the garden. Kennedy is leaning against the tree with Tara beside her. Willow is lying with her head in her blonde's lap. Tara runs her fingers through Willow's soft hair- "I can hear the wheels turning," she smiles- "What's going on in there?"

Kennedy and Willow start at the same time- "I-" they stop and smile. Willow sits up and looks at Kennedy. "You first-"

"No-you-"

"Well you see I'm kind of a list maker-" states the older woman.

"Kind of?" asks Tara.

"Okay-I like lists," she smiles. "The point is if I made list of reasons we should try this and reasons we shouldn't-well-not very even lists."

"More for trying then not trying but the not-it's a big one Willow."

Tara watches as they work through the issue absentmindedly she runs her fingers through red hair and brunette as well.

"True-but we're adults and if-and it's a big if- if it doesn't work-" Willow's eyes meet Kennedy's.

"What if we couldn't do the friend thing?"

"That won't happen-" assures Tara. They both look toward her.

"Promise?" asks Kennedy.

"Guarantee it."

Kennedy thinks for a little longer and rests her head on Tara's shoulder. Willow does the same on the opposite side. Tara holds hands with each of them. "Okay-" Kennedy says in a whisper. "I'll stay." Tara smiles and turns to the girl. She kisses her gently.

"I'm glad," she touches her cheek with her hand. Kennedy smiles nervously.

Willow leans in and kisses first Kennedy and then Tara. She snuggles back into Tara's shoulder and the blonde wraps an arm around her. Kennedy does the same and soon finds Tara's arm encircling her as well.

Night finds them in their rooms. Willow is talking to Buffy- "So you'll be okay-and you'll let us know if you need us right?"

"Right-but you've got this First guy on the run. We'll keep researching him and that weapon on this end and you take care of the magic thing."

"Okay-I'll miss you-"

"I miss you Will-and Tara. Oh-and how's Kennedy getting home?"

"She's-ah-she's staying here with us."

"Her dad didn't freak about school?"

"No-she'll go here-studying abroad is the thing."

"Okay-stay in touch-"

"We will-be careful Buffy."

"Always-see you."

"Bye-" she hangs up with tears in her eyes. She relaxes when she feels arms surround her and lips on her neck. "I miss her already and Dawnie-and Xander."

"We'll call every day if you want." She turns in Tara's arms and kisses her. They hear a soft knock on the door and smile as Kennedy comes in in her pajamas. She frowns. "What's wrong?"

"You're snuggling without me." They both smile and hold out their arms to her. They hug tightly. Kennedy is the first to let go. "I'll see you in the morning-can't wait to go apartment hunting." She smiles.

Willow looks unsure- "It's okay to stay here-" she says.

"I just think-"

"Thinking is bad-" her hand finds Kennedy's.

"Goodnight Sweetie," says Tara as she kisses her softly on the lips. Kennedy smiles.

"Okay-" concedes Willow. "Sleep tight," she kisses her too.

"Night," she goes out the door.

Willow lays her head on Tara's shoulder, "I want her here with us," she whispers.

"So do I-but we shouldn't be with the rushy-" her eyes meet Willow. "If she needs time-then we should give it to her."

"Slow-okay-I can go slow." Willow nods. Tara smiles and kisses her.

Later that same night Kennedy lies sleepless staring at the ceiling. She gets up and walks through the bathroom to the other room. She opens the door and walks to the bed-she crawls in next to Tara and snuggles against her warm body and almost instantly she is asleep.

The next morning the blonde awakes to find herself sandwiched between the two women. She smiles and runs her fingers along Kennedy's shoulder. Kennedy kisses the shoulder under her lips and looks up to see Tara smiling down at her, "Morning-" says the blonde softly.

"Hey-couldn't sleep-hope you don't mind."

"Definitely don't," she assures the girl. They both look at the sleeping redhead as she mumbles something.

"Will-" Kennedy says softly, her fingers touching the redhead's back. "Wake up Willow-it's a bad dream." She touches her cheek with her hand as Tara does the same.

Willow slowly opens her eyes and smiles as she sees them. "Hey-where did you come from?"

"A cold bed-" she snuggles against Tara's again. "Warm here-" her other hand rests on the blondes stomach. Willow reaches for it and they lace fingers.

Tara runs her fingers through the hair of both girls', "We ready to go apartment hunting?"

"I need a good morning kiss," states the redhead. She raises up and Tara complies. The kiss is slow and sensual but they pull away before it can escalate. "That's one-" she looks across at Kennedy who smiles and licks her lips before leaning into Tara to kiss Willow. At first it is tentative but as the redhead feels Kennedy's lips part slightly and she takes her younger woman's bottom lip between hers. She pulls away with a smile.

Kennedy smiles too and turns to Tara- "You need a good morning too?" She just nods. Kennedy moves slightly brushing her body to Tara so she can reach her lips. Their lips meet and Tara opens hers much like Kennedy had earlier. The young Slayer-to-be takes the offered lip between hers and slides her tongue across it. Tara moans and then pulls back surprised. Kennedy smiles as cocky smile as she moves back so that Willow can see as well. She sticks out her tongue proudly displaying the metal stud for both of them to see.

Willow smiles and raises an eye toward Kennedy. "Full of surprises aren't you?"

The younger woman simply smirks.

In this Moment

"We could go get lunch," offers Kennedy and the other two smile. "What-it's way past lunchtime," she states.

Tara squeezes Willow's hand, "Why don't we look at one more then we'll get lunch-" Kennedy smiles and nods but her redhead seems unconvinced. "And after lunch we'll check out that bookstore we passed."

"Bookstore?" Willow smiles and this time it is Tara who nods.

"So we have a plan?" questions the blonde. "We look at one more apartment-"

"Eat lunch-" adds the brunette.

"And buy books," says the redhead with a smile.

At the coffee shop they buy sandwiches and mochas then sit in a park and eat. Kennedy is finished long before the other two and sits watching some kids play on the swings. She watches a little girl and a little boy try to get started but they can't. "Be back-" she says as she jogs toward the swings.

Tara looks up and smiles, "Happy?" asks her girl.

"Mmmmm-very happy." She leans across and kisses Willow's lips softly. Together they watch Kennedy with the little kids. "She's good with them."

Willow smiles, "Yeah-" she kisses Tara again. "We need to talk to her about the prophecy-the baby."

"Soon-we'll talk about it soon." They watch her as she swings them higher.

Finally the trio walks to the last apartment on the list. They all smile when they see the enormous loft from the outside. "Wow-" says Willow.

"I'll see that wow and raise you a holy shit-" they both look at her with a smile-she blushes slightly. "Sorry-" she half smiles. "Wow."

A man opens the door when Tara knocks. "W-we're here about the ad." She holds up the paper.

"Please come inside." They follow him in and over to an elevator that takes them to the loft. Once off they walk into the large spacious room. "It needs some work but I'm sure you will find it suitable." Kennedy has wandered off toward a weight bench at one corner, "Oh-that-I can have it removed-previous boarder," he states.

"You don't have to-it's fine," says Tara.

Willow who had also wandered off comes back in with a smile. Tara can't help but smile too- "Will-?"

"You should see the bathtub," she whispers in her lover's ear.

"We'll take it," says the blonde.

Kennedy looks towards her unsure since they had decided before they left not to make any rash decisions. "Tara?" She walks back to them.

Willow whispers in her ear, "A tub big enough to swim in," she smirks.

"That's good," she says as she clears her throat. "But we might wanna know how much?"

"Maybe-" Tara blushes and looks up at the man.

"It's reasonable," he assures.

Later that night the three girls sit on the bed quietly in their pajamas. Tara is the first to speak- "He calls that reasonable?"

"Reasonable if you own a small island," pouts the redhead.

"But you liked it right?" asks Kennedy they look at her confused.

"We like it," says Tara.

"But we can't afford it," adds Willow.

They are quiet again, "I'll be right back." She gets up and goes toward the door.

"Need a snack?" Teases Willow.

"Hadn't thought about it but now that you mentioned it-" she leaves with a smile.

Tara lies back on the pillow and Willow snuggles in her arms, "I'm sorry about the bathtub sweetie-I know you liked it," says the blonde softly.

"It's okay-never needed one before," she smirks as she turns over lying on her girl. She kisses her softly and Tara wraps her arms around her.

Kennedy comes back thirty minutes later to find them in the same position. "Okay-enough with the smoochies-" they both look at her shocked.

"Okay-you're young and we'll forgive you just this once," states Tara.

"But just so you know, there's no such thing as enough smoochies-got it?" says the redhead.

"But I have big news," tries Kennedy as she hops onto the bed beside them.

"There's pie?" Teases Tara.

"Fine-" she pouts playfully, "if you don't want to hear-go back to what you were doing."

"Okay," Willow leans around her to kiss the blonde again. After breaking the kiss for air Willow looks at Kennedy, "You can-with the smoochies too if you want."

The young Slayer-to-be smiles and pulls both of them down on top of her. Willow smiles as the blonde turns her head and kisses Kennedy. As Tara and Kennedy kiss Willow's hands slide under her blonde's top and up her body until they rest on her breasts. She squeezes gently and Tara gasps. Her mouth opens and Kennedy's tongue finds its way inside. They both moan as their tongues continue to slide over and around each other. The studded ring and the redhead's hands are driving the blonde toward the edge quickly. Willow's hands move, giving way to her lips and Tara arches against her-her hands find the young Slayer-to-be's back and she pulls at her shirt. Kennedy breaks away out of breath-she looks into Tara's eyes and sees the desire burning there, "Mmmm-o-kay maybe telling you I bought the loft isn't that big a deal compared to this." She leans back in for another kiss but Tara sits up and Willow's hands slide away.

"You what?" they ask in unison.

"I-am-I"- She tries to compose herself, her own body a little heated. "I-I have money-a trust-" she looks nervous. "I mean I can't use it till I'm twenty-one but the lawyer said that it collects interest and I used that."

"You bought the loft?" Tara asks still not sure she heard correctly, her body still humming from the sexual energy they had created.

"Yeah-" answers the brunette.

"Bought it?" restates Willow. "With the accrued interest?"

"Still yeah-are you mad?" Kennedy asks unsure.

"Mad?-No-Kennedy- but you shouldn't-" Willow stops and leans in to kiss her lips. As she pulls back Tara leans in and kisses her too.

Kennedy smiles, "So-I did good?"

"Absolutely-you did well." Willow smiles.

She rolls her eyes, "Well-good-this is not school," the younger woman states. "Try to focus here-"

"What am I focusing on?"

"You, me, Tara-tub-"

"Tub-right," the redhead's eyes go wide and her mind travels there.

"God-I can't wait to try out the tub-" Kennedy can't stop the smirk from covering her face.

"I'm right there with you," agrees Tara.

"We could use the one here-" Willow volunteers as she focuses on the now. She leans in and kisses Kennedy. As they kiss it escalates quickly, lips open and close against lips. Willow moans as she feels the tongue ring for the first time- "Goddess-" she moans again when she feels Tara's lips on her neck and her hands teasing the trembling muscles of her stomach.

They break apart needing air, "We could," agrees the younger woman, need outweighing her worries. They stand, between kisses and caresses they make their way to the bathroom. She watches as Willow and Tara undress each other. They turn to her and Tara pulls her into a soft kiss. When they break apart Willow's lips find hers and fingers tease her shirt up and over her head. Her breathing gets more strained as she feels hands caress her back, her sides-but when she sees Willow kneel to remove her boxers she panics. "Wait-" the redhead looks up unsure, her hands rest on Kennedy's thighs.

"What's wrong?"

"Just- I-I think we should wait-" Kennedy looks from Willow's eyes to Tara's worried they might be angry.

"We can wait-" assures Tara with a smile. "As long as you need."

Willow nods and stands, "Okay?"

Kennedy nods, "I just want it-when we-I want our first time to be-"

"Special-" says Willow. Kennedy nods. Willow kisses her chastely.

Tara takes her hand and smiles, "It will be-I promise."

"I'll just-" she looks toward the door. "And you two can-" she picks up her top and leaves. Tara looks at the naked redhead in front of her and Willow understands. She picks up their pajamas and they dress each other smiling.

Kennedy is lying on the bed a little upset with herself not sure why she stopped. She is so deep in thought that she doesn't hear the door open or see the two witches walk her way. They crawl onto the bed and she smiles at them. "Want snuggles?" asks Tara. She nods and snuggles into the blonde, then without a word she pulls Willow into her lap. They sit wrapped in each, safe and happy.

Two weeks later they are working on the loft. They have painted the living room area and are now arranging the furniture. Two large oversized couches are flanked by two floor laps. In the front of them is a fireplace-to the left on that wall is a flat screen television. "What do you think?" asks Kennedy.

"Looks good," smiles Willow as she looks from the couches to the wall in front to see the large flat screen television there. "But no more money from the trust interest."

"She's right anything else we need we'll buy as we save up for it," confirms Tara.

"But we-"

"No buts-" says Tara as she pulls the girl into a tight hug. "You've spent enough."

"Just one more thing?" Kennedy gives her puppy dog eyes that not even Willow can compete with.

"No x-box or some mega stereo system," Willow teases.

"How about a bed?" Kennedy looks from one to the other.

"A bed might be good-" smiles Tara.

"Yeah-" agrees the redhead. "Okay-you can buy a bed."

"Can we go after lunch?" asks the Slayer-to-be.

"We missed lunch," teases the blonde as she looks at her watch.

The redhead plays along, "I guess food can wait till dinner."

"Dinner?" questions the brunette, her stomach growling loudly as if on cue.

Willow hugs her, "We're teasing baby," she kisses her lips and Tara wraps an arm around her as well.

"Can you make it to the cafe' on the corner?" asks Tara.

"Maybe-you might have to carry me," she teases back. Tara and Willow exchange a quick look. Kennedy squeals as she finds herself between the two being lifted from the floor. "Put me down-guys-" they giggle as they start to the door.

Later that night the three are tucked into bed. Tara in the middle as always with her redhead resting on one shoulder and her brunette resting on the other their hands joined on her stomach. "Very comfy bed," says the blonde.

"Ummm-you're comfy," smiles Willow as she kisses Tara's bare shoulder.

"Comfy here too," agrees Kennedy and she kisses her shoulder as well.

Tara wakes just as the sun comes up to the feel of a thumb brushing back and forth across her bare stomach. She turns her head and finds Willow still asleep. As she turns to Kennedy she sees a soft smile. "Morning-" the younger woman whispers.

"Morning-how long have you been awake?" says Tara softly.

"Not long-" assures Kennedy.

"Hungry?"

"Nah-" she just shakes her head.

"Something wrong?"

"Just taking it all in-sometimes-it's still pretty wild. Me-with the two of you."

"Come 'ere-" Tara carefully slips her arm from around her redhead and pulls Kennedy into a hug. The brunette rests partially on the blonde. Tara kisses her gently, "You, with us, that's where you've always belonged."

"I don't know-"

"I do-" comes Willow's voice.

"Sorry sweetie, we didn't mean to wake you."

"Need a good morning-" she smiles and Tara kisses her and then Kennedy does the same. "You-" she touches Kennedy's face. "Should listen to the beautiful blonde-" they both look at Tara who blushes, "Cause she's always right."

"You belong with us-the dreams that brought you to Sunnydale-I wondered why they stopped once you got there. Now I know." Willow leans her forehead against Kennedy's and fights tears. "I know." They kiss softly. Kennedy is now sitting between the two witches.

Tears slip down Kennedy's cheeks-as the three hug each other. Tara looks at Willow and she nods. "Sweetie there's something else you should know too-"

She pulls back and wipes her eyes, "Let me guess a prophecy?"

"How?" Willow looks unsure.

"Sometimes I can feel this weird energy-" states the younger woman. "Like pulling me-guiding me." They are quiet, "But there's more right?"

Tara nods but Willow speaks, "Remember when we were in the garden with Althennea?" Kennedy nods. "What we saw-the little girl?" Kennedy nods.

"She's ours-" Tara finishes with a smile.

"Ours?" asks the Slayer-to-be.

"The three of us-" says Willow barely a whisper.

"How?"

"Destiny-fate-prophecy-magic-maybe all of the above. Althennea said she'd locate the manuscript."

"A baby-our baby," Kennedy tries the sound of it again and smiles as those beside her nod.

After a few minutes of silence Willow speaks, "You okay?"

"Yeah-it's-yeah," she smiles.

Again it is quiet, "Breakfast now?"

"Pancakes-" smiles Kennedy.

"Rounds or funny shapes?" asks the blonde.

In unison they answer, "Funny shapes." The blonde kisses each of them and slides out of bed. They watch her walk across the room and around the partition to the stairs.

"Will-I'm all cold now," whines Kennedy. Willow smiles and snuggles into the woman and spoons around her under the covers.

"Better?"

"Mmmm-night." She closes her eyes and Willow kisses her on the back of the head. The redhead listens as she hears Tara getting things from the cabinets and she can't help but smile.

Tara comes back into the room and finds them snuggled together sleeping soundly. She quietly gets the camera from the shelf and takes a picture. She smiles as she sets the camera on the nightstand. She sits on the bed and leans down to whisper in Kennedy's ear. "Breakfast-"

The girl stirs and opens her eyes, "Breakfast-yummy." She leans up and kisses Tara. "Ummm-you're yummy too." She smiles and Tara blushes.

"Pour the coffee while I wake up the not morning person next to you?"

"Sure-" she slides carefully out of Willow's arms and finds her robe before leaving.

Tara moves closer to her redhead, "Will-sweetie-can you hear me?" She whispers against her ear.

The woman stretches and she reaches toward the voice, her eyes still closed as she pulls her tighter. "Five more minutes?"

"Kennedy's alone with the food-it's not safe," she smiles as she sees her Wicca smile and open her eyes.

"How did that happen?"

"I wasn't thinking-that's not true, I was thinking about a few early morning smoochies." She leans in and kisses her.

"I like the way you think-who needs food?"

"We all do," says Kennedy with a smile as she carries in a tray with a large plate of pancakes, syrup, and coffee. She puts the tray on the table and sits down with them.

"Breakfast in bed is nice," smiles the blonde.

"Very nice-" agrees her redhead.

Two more weeks pass and Willow's time with the coven makes her stronger more in control of her power. She is learning to focus and use her skills wisely. Althennea approaches her as she starts to leave the estate. "Willow-" the woman speaks. She turns to the voice, "If you could give this to Tara." She hands her a folder.

"You found the manuscript?" she asks.

"Indeed-good luck," the woman smiles.

"Thank you." She can't wipe the huge smile from her face as she gets in the car.

At the loft Kennedy is pounding a way on the heavy bag hanging in her workout corner. Tara is fixing dinner, she puts the lid on the pasta and walks toward the younger woman. She stands back and watches as the Slayer-to-be lands punch after punch. "I could never do that-" she speaks softly.

Kennedy looks up at the blonde and smiles. She pulls her shirt up to wipe her face, giving Tara a good look at her firm abs. "I could teach you."

"Nah-baddies come my way I'll stick with the magic."

"It's easy-come on," Kennedy and the puppy dog eyes; the blonde didn't stand a chance.

"Okay-" she concedes and walks to her. She stands in front of the bag.

"Now you want to get balanced so your stance is important." She moves close behind the blonde and puts her hands on her hips. Tara swallows hard as she feels Kennedy's hands on her body. "Spread your legs," she instructs. Tara does as she's told. "Just a little more," the brunette moves her leg between Tara to inch them out farther. The blonde can't control the moan that escapes her lips. "Sorry-" Kennedy starts to step back but then changes her mind. She takes a deep breath and wraps her arms around Tara's waist. Her fingers play with the exposed skin there as she leans in to kiss her neck. Tara relaxes into her Slayer's body and turns her head to find her lips. They kiss, tongues come out to play and they both moan. Breaking for air they look into each other's eyes. Their breathing is labored and they are both flushed. "Tara-I-" she backs away. "Sorry-"

Tara smiles her lopped-sided smile and takes the younger girl's taped hands, "Get a shower-Willow should be back and then-if you want-" she gets a little shy, unable to finish.

"I want-" confirms Kennedy. She kisses her one more time and heads across to the bathroom.

Tara takes a deep breath and runs her fingers through her hair, then blows it out slowly as she tries to compose herself. "Goddess-" she whispers.

She looks toward the door as it opens, "Tara-" she hears Willow call her.

"Over here-Will is something wrong?" She meets her girl half way. She sees the smile and relaxes. "What?"

She holds the paper up for her to see, "She found it-"

Tara smiles and puts a hand to her mouth, "She did?" Tears threaten to fall. She wraps her arms around the redhead and then kisses her.

"Where's Kennedy?"

"Shower-" she smiles.

"Bigger smile-how is that possible?" She begins to hop in place as she figures it out. "You mean she?"

"I mean-now-tonight," she bites her bottom lip.

"This day gets better and better," she kisses her blonde again. They move hand-in-hand to the couch and start to look over the papers though the concentrating is hard. Willow's mind is spinning with the revelations of the day. Tara squeezes her hand and the redhead's eyes meet hers. "I love you-" whispers the redhead.

"I love you-always." They kiss softly.

Kennedy comes in and smiles when she sees them cuddled together. "Whatcha got?" she asks as she sees the papers.

"The manuscript," Tara smiles.

Kennedy smiles too and bites her bottom lip, her fingers worry at the hem of her tank. "What's it say?"

Tara holds up her hand and Kennedy takes it. She sits down putting the redhead in the middle. Willow takes her other hand. "It's a bit cryptic."

"Cryptic-figures," she smiles. "It's cause I'm a potential Slayer right? Everything's gotta be all secrets." She pouts.

Willow smiles and kisses her lips, "It's not a big deal."

"It just means we won't know when," says Tara and she smiles. "Like everybody else."

"Don't we have to do something special-a spell or a ritual?" asks the girl confused.

"Apparently not," answers Willow. "According to the papers-it happens when the time is right."

"That clears it up," Kennedy's words are full of sarcasm.

"Yeah-pretty not helpful, we don't know anymore than we did before."

Tara stands and takes the hands of the unhappy women, "Why don't we have dinner-then we can see if the time is right?" She bites her bottom lip and then smiles her lopped-sided sexy smile, raising an eyebrow. Willow and Kennedy both open their mouths but words don't come out, finally they nod. "Okay," she kisses each one and goes towards the kitchen. They turn their heads and watch her-both have dumb grins on their faces as they follow behind her.

Later dinner is over. Nervously the three women clear up the kitchen. When the last dish is put away Tara moves toward Willow and takes her hand- "Why don't you start a fire?" She touches her cheek with her fingers.

"Ah-" she swallows hard, "yeah-okay." She moves across the room.

Tara turns to Kennedy, "You okay?" asks the blonde.

"I want this to happen it's just the two of you-you've-and I feel-what if I disapo-"

"Don't finish that sentence," she presses a kiss to the younger girl's lips. "No ones gonna be comparing."

"Okay-"

"Help me get the pillows from upstairs?" Kennedy nods and they go up the stairs hand-in-hand.

Willow gets the fire started, resorting to magic after two failed attempts. She looks up the stairs and smiles as she sees them coming down.

Willow sits against the couch, Kennedy and Tara join her. Tara playfully tosses a pillow and hits the redhead. It does what she hopes starts a pillow fight and relaxes a little bit of nervousness. Kennedy has Willow pinned to the floor under her. "Enough-" warns the Slayer-to-be. "I'll start tickling."

"I'll stop-" swears the redhead.

"So you're ticklish-" smiles Kennedy.

"Don't you dare-" warns the witch.

"And if I do?" asks the girl.

The question is forgotten as Willow slides her fingers under the girl's shirt and traces patterns on the skin there. Kennedy closes her eyes. Willow smiles, "Like that?"

"Yes-" answers the brunette.

Willow sits up with Kennedy on her lap. The Slayer-to-be's legs lock around her waist. As their lips meet, then open and close against each other Tara moves begin the brunette. She runs her hands along the girl's back and places soft kisses on her neck. Kennedy breathing is getting faster-her heart races. Willow's tongue explores her mouth and she moans from the contact. Kennedy's hands finally move-one forward to Willow's neck holding her closer and the other backward stroking Tara's leg. They finally break for air, both are breathing with difficulty. "Amazing-" says the younger woman.

"Oh-yeah-" agrees Willow before she leans past her and finds Tara's lips. As they kiss their hands remain on Kennedy-Willow's fingers work the buttons of her shirt while the blonde's undo the clasp of her bra from underneath the shirt. "Too m-many cl-clothes," says the redhead as the kiss ends.

Clothes are unbuttoned and are slowly stripped away. Soon all three are naked in front of the fire. Kennedy seems nervous again but a kiss from Tara unlike any kiss before fixes that. The kiss isn't soft or chaste. The blonde's lips are demanding-her tongue seeks entrance and explores her new lover's mouth causing the brunette to settle against her side. Willow-opposite Kennedy begins to trail kisses along the blonde's neck, then down and across her shoulder. Tara moans as the kiss ends and the younger woman's head rests on her shoulder. "Goddess-" she cries as the redhead licks and then suckles at her right breast. Kennedy follows Willow's lead and soon she is suckling on the other side. Tara is lost, she writhes under their touch-her hands stroke bare backs and then shoulders as they move lower in tandem.

She gasps as lips lick, kiss and nip down her body. At the blonde's belly button Kennedy dips her studded tongue inside and Tara cries out again-her hips raising off the floor. "Like that baby?" Willow smiles as she places a kiss on her soft curls.

"Pl-please-Will-" begs the blonde. Kennedy's eyes meet the redhead's and she nods. Willow's fingers tease soft folds and Kennedy tongue snakes out to follow the same path. As the stud make contact Tara begins to tremble- "Oh-goddess-I'm gonna-" her hands tangle in Kennedy's hair holding her in place as she kneels between her legs.

As Kennedy continues to please the blonde Willow moves behind the younger girl, her lips place kisses from her shoulder, down the middle of her back, then they follow the same path back. Her hands move to cover the brunette's breasts and as she massages them Kennedy moves her mouth from Tara. The blonde whimpers, "S-sorry Tar-" she changes tactics and as she slides two fingers into the blonde.

"Yes-" cries Tara and after only a few strokes she falls hard. "Kenn-" she pants, her eyes closed tight as she tries to compose herself.

The girl doesn't answer as she too is being caressed. Willow's fingers have found their way to Kennedy's center-there she teases her, lightly tracing her fingertips along the insides of her thighs- "I-I need-"

"Shhhh-soon," says the redhead as she strokes her fingers through the wetness. Her lips kiss the girl's neck and she pulls the skin between her lips. She lets go as her fingers slide home. She begins a slow rhythm but Kennedy rides her fingers fast-raising and lowering herself repeatedly.

"Willow!" She explodes around the redhead's fingers. Her lips finding her redhead's lips and Willow moans as she tastes Tara there.

The three lie tangled together hours later. The fire is nearly burned out-merely a soft glow. Willow kisses Tara- "Mmmm-this is nice."

"Ummm-" she agrees.

Kennedy snuggles closer to the blonde and whispers in her ear. Tara smiles and kisses the brunette, "What do you think?"

"We need a plan-" smiles the blonde.

"Got a plan-you want high or low?" smiles the younger woman.

"High-" she states and before the redhead knows what's happening, they are on her. They straddle her back to back. Tara bends down and kisses her lips as she slides up her body. She moves until her center is above Willow's face but to the redhead's displeasure she moves on up. She turns to face the girl-above her head. There, their lips meet in an upside down kiss.

At the same time Kennedy takes the opposite path and the redhead writhes as the tongue ring works its magic. "OH-goddess-" Willow is fighting to hold on-but as Tara moves from her lips to her right breast she is helpless-all control gone she just goes-as the spasms rack through her body they continue their assault and she falls over and over. "I love you-" she repeats over and over. "Love you both-"

Time

The past month has been amazing but at times she still worries that it's a dream. That she'll wake up from it only to face the reality of being without her witches. As those thoughts try to enter her mind on this day she pushes them away by hitting the bag harder. The moisture drips down her body from the hard work. Tired, she hugs the bag then straightens herself up. Hitting it one last time she begins to remove the wraps from her hands.

She looks up at their bedroom and can't help but smile-the images from the night before flood her mind. -Tara's lips-Willow's hands-she can't stop the moan that the mere memories cause. There is no denying that they are good together-better than good. Her smile widens and she decides on a course of action. -A shower-then a surprise, she would treat Tara and Willow to breakfast in bed. Then maybe after-with that thought she jogs toward the bathroom.

Upstairs Tara is spooned around her redhead. Their bodies molded together as they sleep. The blonde moans and slowly opens her eyes. She looks around to find Kennedy gone and Willow sleeping. She closes her eyes and turns a little pale. "Not good," she mumbles. As she starts to slide out of bed Willow opens her eyes.

"Tara-?"

"Go back to sleep," directs the woman.

"You okay?" she asks as she sits up.

"Not so much." Tara runs for the stairs and Willow follows. They run into the bathroom, neither realizing the water is running as the blonde throws up. Willow holds her girl's hair back as the water stops and a dripping Kennedy exits the shower to find them there.

"Tar-" Willow looks up as the other woman continues to heave. "Willow what's wrong?" The redhead shrugs unsure. "Should we call a doctor?"

"No-" says Tara between bouts. "I'll be okay."

A few minutes later she finally stops. Kennedy hands her a wet cloth and Tara forces a weak smile. "So not fair," she pouts.

"What sweetie?" asks Willow.

"I feel all blah and she's all sexy with the wet body."

Willow smiles as she too realizes the younger girl is without clothes. "That she is-" she licks her lips involuntarily.

"It makes me want-" Tara stops.

Kennedy wraps herself in a towel and smiles, "Better?"

"No-it would be better if I could just-" she runs her hand up the girl's leg.

"Later-right now let's get you back to bed," reasons the young Slayer-to-be. They help the blonde to her feet.

After having to come back to the bathroom three more times they finally settle Tara onto the couch. They tuck blankets around her and as Kennedy sits behind her stroking her cheek trying to help her sleep, Willow comes in with some herbal tea. She smiles when she sees her blonde's eyes closed. 'She sleeping?' she asks Kennedy silently. The brunette shakes her head. "Baby-" she says softly and Tara opens her eyes. "Can you try the tea?" Tara sits up slowly with Kennedy's help as Willow gives her the tea and a gentle kiss on the forehead. "Try just a little-it should help your upset tummy." Tara drinks without a word and hands it back to the redhead. She puts her hand on her stomach and closes her eyes tighter bracing for the worst.

After an anxious minute Kennedy and Willow exchange glances, "Okay?" asks the younger woman.

"For now," whispers Tara.

"One more sip," tries Will. Tara opens her eyes and sits up just a bit. Willow holds the drink for her girl-tipping it slightly and then lowering it. "Good-now rest."

"Try," says the blonde as her eyes close again and she snuggles into Kennedy's arms. Kennedy holds her closer and Willow takes her hand as they wait together.

Noon finds the trio back in the bathroom. Tara is recovering in Willow's arms after her latest round of nausea. Kennedy sits on the other side of her and wipes her face with a cool, wet cloth. "Want to go back to the couch? asks the redhead softly. Tara fights tears but they still fall. "Shhh-it's okay. We'll stay right here." She presses a kiss to her forehead. Kennedy takes her hand and then Willow's as they sit in silence.

Hours later Tara is asleep on the couch while Kennedy and Willow sit on the other couch in each other's arms nervously watching her. Willow looks up at the clock. "It's been an hour-" she says quietly.

"Yeah-sleep will help," assures the younger woman. "Just the flu-she'll be fine."

Three days later Tara is kneeling in front of the toilet again, this time alone. She stands carefully and wipes her face, then gets her toothbrush from the cabinet. Kennedy comes in the bathroom and smiles when she sees her. "Feeling better?" she asks as she kisses her forehead.

"Better-" lies the blonde as she begins to brush her teeth.

"Where are you going?" she smiles as she notices the pajamas are gone, replaced by a long skirt and peasant top. Tara rolls her eyes pointing to the toothbrush in her mouth.

"Sorry," she begins to slip out of her clothes for a quick shower. Tara smiles around the toothbrush. "What?"

Tara finishes with her teeth and returns the brush to its place. She steps forward and kisses Kennedy's lips. Her hands caress her girl's body. "Mmmm-" moans the young Slayer-to-be.

"It's been awhile-" smiles Tara.

"Join me-" she looks to the tub and then back at the blonde.

"I wish-but I've got a couple of errands to run."

"Want me to come with you?"

"No-I'm okay- besides I won't be long. I should be back before Willow gets home." They share another kiss before Tara backs away.

Willow is sitting on the lawn, in the garden with Althennea-the coven leader looks at the witch. "What's wrong? I can feel the turmoil?"

"It's nothing."

"It's enough to have you unfocused."

"Sorry-it's Tara-she hasn't been feeling well. I should be with her."

"Is it serious?"

"I don't think so-but when she's all yucky-I worry."

"Has she seen a doctor?"

"No-we've tried to get her to go-throwing up that often isn't good but-"

"She's throwing up?"

"For a few days now-" adds Willow.

"Is she keeping anything down?"

"Liquids stay most of the time-but just the smell of food-not good."

"Have the three of you-" her words stop.

Willow blushes but nods, "What does that have to do with any-" she stops realizing what the woman is implying. "No-she's not-" a smile covers her face-"You think?" Before she can answer Willow stands, "I have to-"

"Certainly," she smiles as the redhead runs across the lawn. She turns a little sad, "And so it begins."

Tara walks into the drugstore and nervously approaches the aisle she needs. She steps toward the row of boxes and picks them up one at a time and reads them. Finally settling on three different brands she walks toward the counter. The woman there smiles at her. Tara smiles back, "Good luck-" remarks the woman as she hands the bag to the blonde.

Kennedy bored and hungry decides to get lunch. As she goes toward the door she is nearly knocked down as Willow runs in, "Where's Tara?"

"She went out-what's wrong?"

"You let her leave?"

"She had some errands, what's wrong?"

"She's pregnant."

After a pause to think through what she's heard she speaks, "Excuse me-"

"The throwing up and the whole food-bad thing," she smiles.

"She can't be-well she could be but we don't know for sure."

"That's why I bought a test-" says Tara from the door.

"Wow-" starts Kennedy as she turns pale and sits on the arm of the couch.

"Kennedy-"

"I'm okay-ah-so-wow."

Willow smiles and walks over to her witch and kisses her softly, "You need me-"

"No-yeah-both of you." Together they go into the bathroom and Tara takes the boxes from the bag.

Kennedy laughs, "Decision making problem?"

"Just wanted to be sure-cause this is big," states the blonde.

"Actually little-I mean if-" she still smiles.

They each pick up a box and read the directions. "Sounds easy enough-" Tara says softly. She opens the box as the other two watches anxiously.

Later they sit in the bathroom waiting, "It's taking forever," whines Willow.

"Three minutes-relax sweetie." Tara tries to calm her. Kennedy is nervously biting her nails. Tara takes her hand. "You too-" she presses a kiss to her lips.

The timer dings and they all look at each other. Tara panics, "I can't look-" she turns into Willow's arms.

"I got it," smiles the youngest there. She picks up the wand from the sink, looks at it and walks to ward them.

"Well?" asks Willow.

A slow smile crosses her face and tears threaten to fall- "Guess the time is right." She hugs them.

"You mean?" Tara smiles and then bites at her bottom lip.

"I mean-" confirms Kennedy.

"A baby-" Willow's tears start too. "We're gonna have a baby." She hugs them and then kisses each of them.

"This is-" tries Tara but tears overwhelm her. "It's amazing."

"A baby-" repeats Kennedy. Her smile is even bigger- "I'm gonna be a mom."

"We're gonna be moms-" amends Willow. Again they kiss and cry-the happiness too much.

That night the three of them lie in bed snuggled together. Tara is asleep but Willow and Kennedy are awake with their heads on the blonde's stomach. Only inches apart they whisper, "Hey baby," says Willow as she presses a kiss to Tara's stomach.

"Think she can hear you?" asks Kennedy.

"Yeah-she can hear us."

"Hi-" starts Kennedy but she has to stop to compose herself, "I'm your mama-" she turns her head to look up at Tara as she feels fingers in her hair. "Didn't mean to wake you."

Willow looks up at the blonde too-fingers play in red hair as well. "Why aren't the two of you asleep?"

"Couldn't-" says her redhead. "Too much going on-"

"Busy head, huh?"

"Yeah-" she kisses Tara's stomach.

"How about you?" her eyes fall on the younger woman.

"Just can't stop thinking," she says.

"What do you think?"

"Still with the wow-mostly," concedes Kennedy.

"Wow-and-wow-" smiles Willow. "And happy-"

"Yeah?"

Willow moves up Tara's body and kisses her lips. Her hand rests on Tara's stomach and Kennedy's soon locks with it there. "Yeah-can't wait to hold her." Tara kisses her redhead. Their lips open and close together before their tongues start to duel. They moan softly.

As they break the kiss Tara pulls at Kennedy and the younger mom moves up to kiss her lips and then rest in the crook of her shoulder. They face each other. "You happy?" asks the blonde.

"Happy-excited-nervous-happy." They kiss again, soon lost in each other. She breaks the kiss, "Now you-back to sleep."

Willow smiles at the younger woman's take charge attitude, and when Tara starts to protect she chimes in, "She's right." Her hand settles on her blonde's stomach. Tara concedes and softly kisses each of them before they snuggle close and she closes her eyes.

The First in the guise of the Slayer rants, "How can you let this happen! That baby can not be born-you know what you must do."

The coven member nods her understanding, "Before they know what hit them," she assures her boss.

The weeks pass and the three have shared the news with their friends. All were surprised but excited. The redhead was sure she could hear Giles cleaning his glasses.

Willow continues to work with Althennea and Kennedy has started a new training regimen of her own. Tara spends time working in the garden and reading about babies. All that news is shared with the women she loves.

Unbeknownst to them evil too works. Hannah works to gather those she needs to start her plan into action. As she works in the caverns of the estate making her deals with the demon world Althennea starts to sense a presence there.

One day as Hannah is discussing the logistics of the strike with her followers, Althennea intercedes. "This must stop!" states the witch.

"It will once the child is no more and evil reigns," comes Hannah's reply and with a wave of her hand the creatures start at the old woman.

As Althennea uses her magic to fend them off her mind searches to connect with Willow.

At the loft the redhead is lying on the couch watching Kennedy train. Tara is napping beside her. She closes her eyes, as her mind is flooded with images. 'Willow she is not safe here-go at once.'

"Althennea!"

Kennedy stops and looks at her redhead, "Red?"

'Athennea-what's wrong?'

'They plot to harm them-you must go.'

"Go?"

Kennedy is now at Willow's side as Tara is waking. Willow looks at them panic on her face. "Will-?" Tara starts.

"Pack now-no questions. We have to go." They move as a unit- organizing and packing. Willow has the phone in her hand. "Buffy I can't explain just I'll call from the airport and tell you the flight. Meet us there geared up." She hangs up and looks from Kennedy to Tara. The blonde rests her hand on her growing stomach.

They turn to go-backpacks thrown over their shoulders. Kennedy is also holding a crossbow and there is a knife belted at her ankle. Willow looks at them, "Be ready-" they nod. She kisses each of them and steps to the door. As she opens it she is met by a band of demons, a strong arm knocks her to the floor. Another moves toward Tara but Kennedy jumps between them launching two arrows before it reaches them. Tara levels her hand and whispers some words, the creature struggles to move. Willow is again on her feet and she chants to raise a shield around them. "Everybody okay?" They nod.

In the doorway appears Althennea with the coven members- "We will hold them-" they raise their own barrier and Willow allows hers to fall. "Be watchful-others will come." With those words the three are teleported from the room.

Suddenly the three find themselves in their bedroom at Buffy's. Kennedy looks around and realizes she has seen this before-as does Willow. While Kennedy dives to protect Tara, she pulls her to the floor and covers her, Willow puts a shield around them both. The deflected bullet hits the witch hovering just outside the window, Hannah screams and falls.

The door bursts open and Buffy rushes in. She looks unsure when she sees the group hugging on the floor. "Willow?" There is a pause. "Is everyone okay?"

Willow searches the eyes of her family. "Okay?" she asks tears in her eyes. Kennedy nods also crying as they both touch Tara's stomach.

"We're okay," assures the blonde as she touches the cheeks of both women.

"Someone wanna tell me what the hell happened?"

"The First-" states Willow.

"He's just digging a hole. Let me tell you-he's so gonna get his ass kicked if he doesn't stop messing with my family." She stands and moves to the window- "Stay away from us!" she threatens.

Willow helps Tara to her feet and they move to the girl. They each wrap an arm around her and the blonde speaks first, "Kennedy-shhhh-you can't let him get to you." She presses a kiss to her lips. "Let it go."

She leans her forehead against Tara, "Okay-if you say so-" she kisses her again.

Willow kisses her cheek, "Why don't we get Tara tucked in for a nap and then find some food?"

"Food-you're trying to distract me right?" She smiles.

Willow smirks, "Maybe-is it working?"

"Maybe-" she takes Willow's hand and then Tara's.

Buffy clears her throat, "Buffy-sorry-" Willow starts.

"No problem, why don't I get a snack for all of us and you can fill me in?" She smiles.

Go Back To Part 4(Chapters 16-20)

Go On To Part 6(Chapters 26-29)

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