My Scarlet

Rating: PG
Disclaimer: All of the materials borrowed from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel belong to Joss Whedon and to the entities and companies associated with their creation. I have borrowed them for creative and entertainment purposes only. No compensation has been or ever shall be received for the writing below. No copyright infringement is intended. Please don't sue
Distribution: The Kennedy Fanfic Archive: http://www.kennedyfanfic.com/fanfic/
From Willow's Window: http://www.elfie.org/~wolfkin/willowfan/index.html
If you are interested in posting my story on your site, please contact me first for permission.
Feedback: Yes, please. Any type you wanna send. Can't fix what I don't know is broken, right?
Spoilers: Show's been off the air since May of 2003. Can they still be considered spoilers?
Author's Notes: Canon through Chosen. From there, the story is a little different.
F/F romance: This story assumes a loving and sexual relationship between people of the same gender. If this offends or is illegal for you, then please leave. Come back when you are older, have an open mind, moved, or changed your laws.
Pairing: Kennedy/Other, Willow/Kennedy

Summary: We all know that Kennedy was in love with Scarlet O'Hara at five when she saw Gone with the Wind-what we don't know is who her first real Scarlet was. This is just my take on it. I hope you enjoy. Let me know what you think.

My Scarlet

The redhead looks up at her and they both smile, "Hi Kennedy."

"I was wondering if I could borrow your Chemistry notes?"

"Sure meet me at my locker after school." Kennedy nods as the girls all stand and walk away.

Kennedy hears the words of the girl next to Maggie and struggles to hold her temper. "Why do you even talk to her? She's such a loser-"

"A loser with lots of money," volunteers another.

"Good point," agrees the first.

Maggie looks at them, "Question is why do I hang out with you?" She walks the other way and toward Kennedy. Kennedy can't stop the smile from covering her face as they stand eye to eye. "I don't care what they say."

"I do-they don't know you," Maggie says-

"Neither do you," says Kennedy.

"Well-I want to fix that."

"I'm going to that new club on Graves tonight. You could come?"

"I can't get in, not old enough."

"I'll get us in-leave it to me."

"How? You're younger than I am."

"Gotta believe-I'll get it done. Just say you'll meet me at seven?"

"Seven-where?"

"Pick me up, the address is in the book."

Maggie smiles, "Your place at seven." The bell rings and the teenagers go their separate ways.

Kennedy stands in her room in front of the mirror checking out her clothes for the third time. She looks at the clock and sees it is almost time for Maggie. She goes out the door and toward the stairs. She stops when she hears her dad, "Homework?"

"No-just have some notes to copy. A friend's coming by then we're going to the library to work on it."

"Be in before curfew-you just got off restriction."

"I will Daddy-" she kisses his forehead and goes out down the stairs just as the doorbell rings. She opens the door- "Hey-" smiles Kennedy.

"Hi-you sure about this?"

"Definitely liking the plan."

"Okay-" they walk out the door.

They stand outside the new club, Maggie is more nervous then before. "We don't have to do this-I mean we could actually go to the library."

"Library?"

"That's where I told my dad I'd be."

"Oh-would you be mad?"

"Mad-nah, we can talk there too-"

"Without the noise," Maggie supplies. Kennedy smiles at the idea.

At the library the two teenagers sit in a study room. Kennedy is actually copying notes as Maggie watches, occasionally translating her messy words. Just before eight Kennedy finishes. She closes both books and hands Maggie's to her. Their fingers brush and the young brunette smiles. "What's the plan now?" asks the redhead.

"Your call-"

"We could grab a soda-or ice cream."

"Ice cream it is. I know a place a few blocks from here-we could walk."

Maggie agrees and they leave the room, "Let's put the notebooks back in the car."

Later as they walk toward the ice cream parlor they see the two girls from school who were being rude earlier. "Great-" says Kennedy.

"Don't worry about them, they're harmless."

"Right-okay, then ice cream." They walk past them and go inside, the two girls turn and follow. Kennedy looks at them and then at Maggie. "They must be pretty bored if following us is their only entertainment."

"Ignore them," replies Maggie.

"Can't-I'm sort of action girl-" she stands.

Maggie stands too and puts a hand on the younger girl's arm. Kennedy looks up at her- "Want action?"

Kennedy tries hard to read Maggie's eyes was she implying- before she can decide she feels soft lips on hers. The kiss is over as quickly as it started. Her eyes still hold the redhead's. This time it is Kennedy who leans in and brushes her lips against Maggie's. They stand in the ice cream shop lost in each other as lips begin to open and close against lips. Finally she pulls away. "Like that action much better-" Kennedy smiles.

"Thought you might-can we finish our ice cream now?"

They both sit back down-the girls from school leave whispering to each other unnoticed by the new couple. "We can try-I'm a little distracted."

"Yeah-so did you know?"

"Know you liked girls-or know that you liked me?"

"Either?"

"Honestly-I was pretty sure you liked girls and I hoped you liked me."

"I like you-" Maggie reaches across the table and takes her hand. They lace fingers as they continue to talk and eat.

Later outside Kennedy's house they are sitting in the car. "See you at school tomorrow."

"Should be interesting-" says Kennedy with a smile.

"Yeah-everyone will know," Maggie concedes.

"That bother you?"

"Bother me-no, freak out my parents-definitely."

"They don't know?"

Maggie shakes her head. "Your dad?"

"I told him a couple of years ago-he says he's okay with it. Guess we'll see when the gossip starts."

"You should go, don't want him to ground you for missing curfew. First date and all I want to make a good impression." She smiles and kisses Kennedy.

"Good night," she says as she pulls back. "See you." She gets out of the car and goes inside her house.

As she starts up the stairs she sees her dad walking down them. "You're early," he smiles.

"Can we talk?"

"Sure-the study okay?"

"Good-" they walk to the study together.

Once inside she walks around picking up things and playing with them. "Something not right Kennedy?"

"Ah-well would you believe yes and no?"

"You lied about the library?"

"No-I was there. It's just my friend she well-I like her."

"That's good you should like your friends." Their eyes meet- "Like her like her?"

"Yeah-and she likes me."

"So that's the right part-what's the not right?"

"We did something kind of without thinking it through-so girls from school were following us around."

"Another fight?"

"No-I wanted to but she kissed me instead."

"At the ice cream shop-" she nods. "Kennedy-"

"I know-look it's not like we planned it. I mean her parents they don't even know."

"Don't worry about me-but her, she'll need your help."

"I get that-I just hope it goes better than I think it will."

At school the next day Maggie isn't there. After Chemistry she goes outside with her cell phone and dials her number. A few rings later a man answer, "Hello-"

"Hi, may I speak with Maggie."

"I'm sorry she isn't feeling well. Who may I say called?"

"Ah-Kennedy."

"Fine-" the line goes dead.

She turns when she hears a voice behind her, "So where's the other dyke?"

"Leave it alone Rachael."

"Or what?"

"Or I'll forget I promised my dad no fighting and kick your ass."

"A little butch even for you don't you think?"

"Not really-" she steps toward her. The other girl backs away. "Stay out of my face." Kennedy walks toward her next class.

On her way home Kennedy decides that since she can't talk to Maggie she'll go see her. She rings the doorbell and a man answers it. "May I see Maggie-"

"I'm sorry, she's sleeping. I'll tell her you came by-"

"Right, thank you." She turns and leaves. About five steps away she changes direction and sneaks to the back of the house. She climbs a tree and gets onto a low roof-all the while thanking her Watcher for his training. She carefully looks into the windows until she finds Maggie. She knocks quietly on the window and Maggie walks toward it.

As she opens the window she looks scared, Kennedy sees the black eye. "You can't be here, if he finds you-" she begins to cry.

"Did he hit you?" The redhead doesn't answer. "Are you okay?"

"I will be-he lost it, he was so angry. Told me he'd-" she stops.

"He'd what?"

"Send me to boarding school if he saw us together." Her door opens and she turns to see her dad.

Frankly, My Dear...

"You're hurting me-" says Maggie and with those words Kennedy is through the window and on top of him as she puts him on the floor.

"You okay?" She looks up at a surprised Maggie.

"Yeah-good." They both look at her dad.

Kennedy slowly gets to her feet as she stares down at the man she speaks, her voice is angry- "Don't touch her again."

He stands and his eyes meet Kennedy's, "You should leave."

"No way I'm leaving her here alone with you."

Maggie steps toward Kennedy, "It's okay-"

"He hurt you-" Kennedy fights to control her anger.

"I don't want you to get in trouble."

"It's a little late for that." He is dialing on his cell phone.

Later at the police station Kennedy sits in a holding cell. She looks up as she hears her father's voice.

"We called you as soon as realized she was your daughter Mr. Trevors."

"And I appreciate that."

When the guard opens the door she looks down at the floor. "You can go-" the guard says.

She walks out without looking up and stops as she feels a hand on her shoulder. Her father stands in front of her.

"Before you get mad it's not-"

"We'll talk in the car- we should go before the press-."

"Right-image and all," He tries to put his arm around her shoulder but she walks ahead of him. He follows unsure of what he's done wrong this time. He can't seem to connect with the teenager no matter how hard he tries.

Once in the car Kennedy looks across at her dad- "I called and he said she was sleeping, I went by and he said she wasn't up to visitors. I started to leave but something didn't feel right."

"So you sneaked in?"

"Not exactly- I climbed up to her window-Dad she had a black eye, he hit her."

"You saw him?"

"No-she told me-but he grabbed her-he was hurting her and-"

"You stopped him-"

"A lot of good it did-I got arrested-and she's still with him," tears begin to fall no matter how much she fights them.

"I'll see what I can do- call in a couple of favors."

"You'd really do that?-"

"I'd do anything for you Kennedy-" he touches her cheek and her tears fall. Ashamed she let her emotions get the best of her she turns away facing the window.

That night Kennedy is sitting in her bay window staring out at the night sky. Her mind is as far away as the stars she watches-she is worried about Maggie, afraid her father will send her away or worse-hurt her. She is startled from her thoughts by the ringing of the phone. She sits unmoving-since she receives few calls she assumes it an overseas business call for her father. The ringing stops, then a few seconds later there is a knock at her door. "You still awake?" He asks as he opens the door just a crack.

"Sure-come in," She replies.

He finds the room dark as he enters, "The phone is for you." She walks toward him and he covers the receiver, "It's Maggie and she sounds upset."

Kennedy nods as he hands her the phone but stays in the room. "Maggie-" her voice is soft, full of concern.

"Kennedy-" says Maggie and the young would-be Slayer can tell the girl has been crying. "Kennedy are you okay? I was afraid you'd still be-"

"Hey-it's cool-no worries on this end. Are you okay? He didn't hit you after-"

"No," assures Maggie before Kennedy can finish, "he was angry-but no he just yelled."

The petite brunette breathes a sigh of relief. "Will you be at school tomorrow?" Realizes with the new topic of conversation that Maggie wasn't in any immediate danger Mr. Trevors leaves the room. Kennedy walks back to the window and sits down as she waits for Maggie's answer.

"I'm not sure about school-he may not let me-"

"He can't keep you home forever," states the younger teenager.

"No, but he can keep me home until the black eyes gone."

"Figures-" there is a pause but then worried words follow, "Promise me Maggie if he tries to-you'll call me?"

"He won't Kennedy-he just lost his temper."

"I hope you're right."

"I am-" assures the older teen. Again there is silence but it feels different to Maggie. "Kennedy?"

"I'm sorry this is all my fault," she says softly and tears threaten to fall for the second time tonight. "None of this would have happened if I had just ignored the bitches from hell-"

"Hey-listen I kissed you."

"The kiss-" she smiles, "I remember."

"So don't blame yourself-"

"Yeah I guess you could have a point, but I kissed back."

"Sorry you did?"

"No-"

"Neither am I so we just-no blaming okay?"

"I'll try."

"I have to go-" she says with a little regret.

"Okay-call me after school?"

"Yeah-night Kennedy."

"Night." The line goes dead and she clicks it off at her end too. The teenager stands and walks out the door and to her father's room. She stops in the doorway. "Night."

"Good night," he walks toward her and she gives him the phone. "Do you still want me to call Judge Myers?"

"She says she's okay-let's hold off."

"You just tell me when," he hugs her and kisses the top of her head. "Get some sleep."

"Doubt it, but I'll try." She turns and walks away but stops and faces him once again. "Thanks Daddy." He nods as she wraps her arms around him. The act surprises him a little but not as much as the words, "I love you."

"I love you." She lets go of him and leaves the room. A smile crosses his face and tears try to form in his eyes but he forces them away. 'I love you-' had she really said it? If so, it was the first time since her mother had died over a year and a half ago.

A few days later on Saturday afternoon, Kennedy is standing on the deck at the harbor. She watches as people walk by-she smiles when she sees Maggie walking toward her. As the teenager reaches her she takes the younger girl's hand. "You sure about this?" Kennedy asks.

"We'll go out on the boat, have a picnic and talk-"

"Talk?" Kennedy can't help but smile as she sees Maggie raise a teasing eyebrow.

"Relax it'll work-"

"But if your dad finds out-"

"Frankly-I don't give a damn," says the older girl.

Kennedy smiles and wonders if Maggie likes Gone with the Wind too. She realizes the girl is still talking and returns her attention, "Sorry-spaced out, what were you saying?"

"I said he won't-he thinks I'm with Josh."

This time it is Kennedy who raises an eyebrow, "Josh?"

"Josh Turner-he's a friend."

"Who knows you're using him as a cover?"

"It's a mutual thing-we talked. Anybody asks we were out on his boat." Kennedy nods and smiles as they start toward her dad's boat, fingers laced together.

The next weekend they were out again-another Saturday afternoon excursion. As they steer together Maggie leans in and kisses Kennedy softly. "Trying to distract me?"

"Maybe-you don't want distracted?" Asks the older girl playfully.

"Didn't say that," she kisses Maggie.

"Where are we going?"

"You'll see-it's a place I found last fall. All I'm saying." She smiles as their eyes meet brown on green.

"Secrets?"

"Not a secret, a surprise."

"Not really seeing a difference."

"You will," assures the would-be Slayer.

Later the boat is docked at a small cove. The place is beautiful-the water is clear, the land full of flowers and plants. Maggie smiles, "See-" says Kennedy. "This is a surprise. Us being together, that's a secret."

"That bothers you?" The mood suddenly different.

"No-forget it. Just trying to explain the difference." She leans in and kisses her softly.

"Kennedy?"

"It's okay-" she touches Maggie's face. "I get why-I just-"

"You don't like hiding things?"

"I don't like not being able to kiss you anytime I want or hold your hand-"

"We can do that now-" her soft green eyes search Kennedy's.

"Yeah-" they kiss again, lips move against lips as they set a slow gentle rhythm. Finally Kennedy pulls away-both are a little flushed and breathless. "Let's find a picnic spot."

Maggie looks around again, "This is beautiful-"

"And quiet-private," adds Kennedy as they hold hands and she picks up the basket. They go ashore hand-in-hand.

The weeks pass and Josh continues to help with the charade. Kennedy however is starting to worry even more that their secret will be discovered. Afraid she herself might cause the truth to be known.

It's Saturday and they are at their spot-Kennedy, dressed in a bikini top and shorts is lying on a blanket and Maggie, dressed the same, is lying mostly on her. As they kiss, tongues caress and explore causing the younger girl to moan. They pull apart for a deep intake of air and then resume their kissing. Maggie's lips break away from Kennedy's and start a path down her jaw to her neck. She nips and licks there and the other girl moans loudly. She smiles against her skin and whispers, "Like that?"

"Mmmm-" is all Kennedy can say before she is lost in the feelings created by the other girl's lips as they travel from her neck to her ear and then back down. Kennedy's hands caress the bare skin of Maggie's back and move to her butt. She pulls them together tighter and both moan at the contact. Maggie sits up-Kennedy forces her eyes open. "Sorry-I'll watch my hands." She smiles up at the green-eyed girl. She sits up slowly.

"What if I told you I didn't care where you put you hands?" She bites her bottom lip nervously.

Kennedy becomes suddenly nervous too, "Really?"

"Yeah-"

"I'd ah-" she moves closer to the redhead and nervously bites her own lip as she leans in and kisses her. "I'd probably get really nervous," admits the younger girl. "Cause I've never-"

"It's okay-we don't have too if you don't want-"

"No-I want, I'm just not-" she fights away a blush.

"Come 'ere-" says the redhead, her eyes locked with the brunette.

Kennedy moves closer and to her surprise the older girl pulls her onto her lap. Kennedy wraps her legs around Maggie's waist, their eyes still connected. "This okay?"

"Definitely-" She leans in and they kiss-soft, slow-and then the rhythm of their lips opening and closing is matched by the caressing of Maggie's hands on Kennedy's back.

The kiss finally ends and both are breathless- Maggie's right hand moves from Kennedy's back and around to her stomach. There she teases the bare skin with her fingernails and the younger girl gasps and bites her lip as she leans her forehead against Maggie's. Maggie looks into the dark brown eyes of the girl she has grown to love. She works her fingers up toward a bikini-clad breast. "Okay?" All Kennedy can do is nod. As she squeezes gently Kennedy moans-and closes her eyes. Maggie other hand joins the rhythm of the first and Kennedy is lost.

Leaning forward the younger girl presses the redhead to the blanket, but the girl's hands never leave their new home. Kennedy finds herself resting on Maggie-the girl's leg between hers. As Kennedy moves forward to kiss the girl she gasps at the sensation caused as Maggie's thigh meets her center. "Oh-god-"

Maggie smiles, "You okay?"

Kennedy smiles too, "Think I will be-" they kiss again and as they do Kennedy begins to rock against the girl. "Feels amazing-" she manages to gasp out through ragged breathing.

"Gets better-" Maggie adds as her hands go to Kennedy's butt and she helps set a slightly faster pace. Their lips met again and this kiss is more urgent, needy then those before.

Kennedy's body is on fire. The friction of Maggie's thigh is pushing her faster and faster to the edge of something, she's just not sure what. Her moans are louder now as the redhead's hands have removed her top completely. The older girl turns them and is once again on top. Her point of friction gone the young potential Slayer cries, "No-don't-don't stop-Mag-I need-"

Maggie kisses her cutting off her words, as she breaks the kiss she looks in the lust darkened eyes of the girl, "I know what you need-I can-"

"Please-I need you-"

"Sshhh-I'll take care of everything," Maggie assures her. She starts by kissing Kennedy's neck, then her collarbone, then lower still to her breast. As she takes the taunt nipple into her mouth Kennedy cries out-her shut tightly.

"God-" she moans as she arches into the touch of the girl's mouth on her.

Maggie moves a hand to the button of Kennedy's shorts as she unfastens them she slides them as far as she can down Kennedy's body without losing contact. Kennedy manages to get the off and they fly across the blanket. Maggie smiles as her mouth moves to the other side and loves it the same. She looks up at the girl so lost in her touch and whispers- "Soon sweets-promise. Just need to be sure you're ready." She runs her fingers over hypersensitive skin.

Kennedy's eyes open and meet Maggie's- "Trust me when I say- more than ready-" she takes the older girl's hand and slides it lower it stops just above the bikini bottoms. Maggie presses a kiss to Kennedy's toned and tanned stomach as her fingers slip under the material and Kennedy closes her eyes lost again. She moans and arches against Maggie's fingers as she begins to explore slick folds. "Oh-oh-god-" her breath catches- and Maggie moves back up her body kissing as she goes. Her fingers continue to tantalize and as lips meet lips in a scorching kiss. As Kennedy pulls away she breathes out- "You tease-" her words are forced, her breath fast-her face flushed.

"Don't want to hurt you-" smiles Maggie as she kisses her chastely.

"Oh-no-but kill-killing-me is o-God-" She holds her breath as Maggie eases on finger slowly inside and holds it still.

"You okay?" She looks down at the teenager under her. Kennedy manages to nod-her eyes tightly closed. Maggie begins to move slowly-after several strokes Kennedy begins to find the rhythm and moves with her. Maggie kisses her again and then begins to kiss her neck. "You taste so good," she whispers in her ear.

The pace is faster still and Maggie feels the girl's muscles begin to tremble around her fingers, "Mag-gie I-Ooo-" she explodes before anymore words can be spoken. Maggie strokes her through the orgasm then slowly removes her finger as she wraps the teenager in her arms. She presses a gentle kiss to her temple as Kennedy struggles for breath. "Th-that-w-was-wow-" Maggie smiles, and again kisses her chastely. "Again-wow-"

"Rest-we should be heading back soon."

"Never want to leave, besides don't I get a turn?" Their eyes meet and Kennedy smiles, raising a playful eyebrow.

Maggie smiles and bites her lip- "Sure you up to that?"

"I'm a pretty quick learner." She leans over and kisses Maggie softly-her hand cupping a bikini-covered breast.

Maggie gasps surprised, "Think maybe you are-" she moans closing her eyes.

The teenagers are wrapped in each other's arms sleeping. The sky is starting to get dark as Kennedy awakes. Realizing it's late, that they're late she swears, "Damn-Maggie-wake up."

Maggie mumbles but opens her eyes, "Ah-no-we fell asleep." They stand and begin to gather their things. They run toward the boat.

As they near the harbor Kennedy keeps mumbling, "we're so screwed."

"No-relax Josh will figure it out he'll be here."

As they dock and start to leave the boat they see Josh. "See," smiles Maggie. "What did I tell you?"

Josh jogs toward them, "Hey-thanks we lost track of time."

"Your dad called me-on my cell, wanted to talk to you. I told him you were in the video store you were supposed to call back that was thirty minutes ago."

"Shit-" says Kennedy. "We're busted."

"No-Josh and I are."

A voice speaks from behind them, "Your friends right I'm afraid." He grabs Maggie by the arm. "How long have this been going on?"

"Let go of her-" states Kennedy her eyes flash anger and she moves to protect.

Maggie pulls her arm away, "Look-okay I lied but if would have listen when I tried to tell you how I felt-"

"Get in the car," he grabs her again. As she tries to pull away again he slaps her. Kennedy moves forward and pushes him away.

"Go," she yells at Maggie. The teenager hesitates but then runs toward the boat. Kennedy follows pulling the ties away and jumping onto the boat. Maggie is starting it as she reaches the deck and they steer it out of the harbor together.

Maggie is crying-Kennedy is still full of anger as the adrenaline rages through her. "Now what-?"

"We just-stay away from the harbor and call my dad." she begins to search through her bag for her phone. Finding it she turns and puts an arm around Maggie as hey look back at her dad. They can tell he is angry as he talks to the harbor master. "Dad-"

Run, Run, Run, Runaway...

"We have a house-" Maggie runs beside the scared teen. As they reach the sidewalk Kennedy slows down. "Dad called there will be money here and a car. He says we should stay out of sight until he calls my cell."

Maggie stops, "Why?"

"The police-he thinks your dad will call them again." Panic fills the girl's eyes. "Hey-but it's okay they won't find us."

"You're gonna get into so much trouble."

Kennedy leans forward and kisses her softly, "Trust me." She puts her hands on the older girl's face and kisses her again. "We can do this."

"We can," agrees Maggie. Kennedy takes her hand and walks toward the house.

Once inside the house Kennedy leads Maggie up the stairs and to her dad's room. She moves a picture to show a wall safe. Opening it she gets out a bundle of money. Maggie stares surprised. "Dad doesn't like to have all of his money in one place."

"And you know the combination?" Kennedy nods, "Shoes-did you ever just want to take all the money in there and buy shoes?"

"Nah-not shoes, but I really wanted a Harley when I was thirteen. That's when he changed the combination." Kennedy smiles.

They leave the room money in hand and go to Kennedy's room. Kennedy puts the money on the bed and goes to her closet pulling out two duffle bags and two backpacks. "You might be able to find some shorts that fit and sweats-help yourself." Kennedy tosses her a duffle and starts to fill one of her own.

Twenty minutes later they are in the kitchen stuffing a third backpack with fruit and snacks. Maggie also grabs bottled water and juice. They look at each other. "So now what?"

"We get out of here-" she picks up a set of keys from the hook and they leave with duffle bags and backpacks.

As Kennedy drives, Maggie stares out the side window. "You okay?" asks the would-be Slayer.

"Not really-why does he have to be like this?"

"My dad will fix it," assure the teen.

"Even if he does and you don't get in trouble I eventually have to go home and he'll send me away." Kennedy touches Maggie's arm-her hand gently caressing, trying to soothe the girl.

"Let's get through one thing at a time."

"I guess-" says Maggie. "Where are we going?"

"There's this cabin-nobody knows we have-it's about an hour from here." Kennedy's eyes meet her girlfriend's, "Sleep if you want-"

"Nah-don't want to sleep." Maggie slips her hand into Kennedy's.

They drive in silence for over an hour finally Kennedy slows the car onto a gravel road. "We're almost there."

"Maybe I should just call my dad-maybe I can make him understand?"

"Maggie-" she stops the car outside a small cabin. "He's not ready to listen-hopefully someday, but-" her words stop as she sees the girl's tears and she puts the car in park and hugs her. "Let's get inside-get settled in, then we'll talk."

"I guess-" they get out of the car and gather the bags. Together they start up the path. "Kennedy I'm sorry-"

"Last time, it's not your fault," she forces a smile. "Now come on, we're missing serious cuddling time." That comment forces a smile from the older girl. "There, I love that smile."

Later inside the cabin the girls have changed into pajamas and Maggie watches as Kennedy digs through the cabinets. "Yes!" Smiles Kennedy victorious, "I knew I'd find it-" she holds up a box of Jell-o.

"Jell-o, o-kay wanna tell why Jell-o gets you so excited?"

"You don't like Jell-o?" She says with a mock pout.

"Well I do it's just not the most important thing right now."

Kennedy talks as she starts to make the yummy treat, "When I was little," her voice grows softer, "My mom-when I was having a bad day she'd always fix Jell-o for me. It made me feel better." Her eyes meet Maggie's- "I want you to feel better too."

Maggie steps toward the girl and hugs her tightly, "I live you," admits the girl.

Kennedy nervously smiles, "Yeah?"

"Yeah-" she kisses her softly, "What can I do to help?"

"Let me okay?"

Maggie nods, "I'll just snoop around see what I can find." She kisses her again and then goes toward the hallway. Kennedy takes a deep breath as she battles the sadness she always feels when talking about her mom. She continues to make the Jell-o.

A few minutes later Kennedy walks in the living room to find Maggie looking at a photo album. She sits beside her on the couch and smiles, "You are a snoop-I hid that personally."

"I bet you were terrible at hide-n-seek then cause it was easy to find." She smiles as she turns it so the brunette can see, "You were a cute little kid. You in a dress-"

"Shut up-" she bumps the girl with her shoulder. I think I'll take a shower."

"How old were you?"

"I don't know maybe four-"

"This your mom?"

"Yeah-"

"How long has she-"

Kennedy cuts off the girl's words, "Ah a year and a half-cancer." She adds before she can ask. She tries to change the subject. "I think there's a couple yearbooks around too-I won't be long." She forces a tense smile.

"I'm sorry we don't have to talk about-"

"No, it's okay," she lies to make her girl feel better. "We will I just need to relax-" She kisses her lips softly and stands.

Maggie looks up at her and takes her hand, "Want some company?" She asks with a raised eyebrow.

"Next time," she states as she walks away. Maggie looks back at the picture of Kennedy wrapped in her mother's arms.

In the shower as the water runs off her dark toned body Kennedy's mind remembers; remembers in flashes as her mom tells her about the disease and how she was sad and then angry. They had fought that night. As an angry twelve-year-old she blamed the world including her parents. Then later as the treatments caused her mom pain and sickness she was able to face the true and deal in a more adult way. Later at fourteen when her mom told her that the treatments hadn't cured her she cried for days and hid from the world her angry mask firmly back in place. Finally she watched with quiet strength as her mother grew weaker and weaker-when she died the struggling teen refused to leave her side. As Kennedy struggles to push the memories away she slides down the shower wall and cries.

An hour later Maggie knocks softly on the door- "Kennedy?"

"Be out in a minute," states the would-be Slayer as she pulls herself together and stands against the shower wall.

When Kennedy opens the door she finds Maggie standing there with a bowl of Jell-o in her hand. "For you-" she leans and kisses her softly.

"Thanks-" she takes it and they walk to the bed and sit down against the headboard. As she starts to eat she snuggles into the older girl. "I used to come here a lot after my mom-I didn't want to be with people."

"Better now?"

"Most of the time. I still miss her-and sometimes it's really hard. But somewhere inside I know she's better off-and that I shouldn't be so selfish-"

"You're not-I mean you're helping me. That's not selfish." She kisses the top of the smaller girl's head. Kennedy turns slightly and kisses her lips.

"Thanks-"

"Anytime-" is Maggie's reply.

Kennedy finishes the Jell-o and puts the bowl on the night stand-she sees the photo album and picks it up. She leans back into Maggie's arms and opens it, "So you think I was a cute kid?"

"Definitely a cute kid-" assures the older girl. "Pretty cute now too-" she smiles as she tightens her hold on her would-be Slayer.

Kennedy turns slightly, so their eyes meet, "Can I tell you something?"

"Yeah-"

"Something I've never told anyone before-?" Maggie nods, "Maggie I love you." She bites her bottom lip nervously.

Maggie smiles and kisses her softly- "I love you-now tell me about this picture."

Kennedy smiles and tells about her life-

We find the young couple spooned together on top of the covers as the phone rings- Groggy Kennedy manages to turn it on, "Yeah-"

"Kennedy-you need to stay wherever you are. Don't call the house."

"Dad what's going on?"

"The police are looking for you-"

"I knew they would-runaways, it's a given."

"He said you took her against her will-"

"What?-that's bullshit Dad."

"Language-"

"Sorry-look I didn't-"

"I know-it's going to take me more time but I'll take care of it. Promise."

"Okay-I'll wait for you to call." She turns off the phone.

Maggie stretches as she opens her eyes, "Was that the phone?"

"My dad-she said to sit tight he's taking care of it."

"Okay," she says sleepily as she snuggles again into the younger girl's arms and goes back to sleep.

"Sweet dreams." She pressed a kiss to the back of Maggie's head. "It'll be okay."

Safe Haven

Trying to push away unpleasant thoughts and take in the beauty before her she again turns her eyes to her surroundings. She smiles as she watches ducks on the pond not a hundred yards from her. She almost laughs at the antics of the smallest as it tries to go the opposite way of the others only to be pushed back.

Suddenly she thinks about what her father said and her anger returns. She wonders how Maggie's dad can be so callous-so uncaring. Didn't he realize that he would push his daughter away? Lost in thought she doesn't sense someone approaching from the rear until she feels arms encircle her. She turns her head to see Maggie and turns back to the view of the pond. "Didn't like waking up all alone," pouts her redhead.

"I'm sorry-I thought I'd take a walk and be back before you woke up. Lost track of time." She turns in her arms and kisses her softly. "Good morning."

"Afternoon actually-I must have been more tired than I realized. And you're forgiven it's so beautiful out here-getting lost is probably really easy."

"Yeah-hey as part of my apology, what do you say to a picnic lunch-since we missed breakfast?"

"Mmmm-like the way you think." She kisses her lips again. "I'll throw some things in a basket."

"And I'll grab a blanket." They walk toward the cabin hand-in-hand.

Later they lie on the blanket in front of the small pond. Spooned together they are quiet. "I see why you use to come here-it's so peaceful."

"Ummm-" is Kennedy's reply.

Maggie turns to her back and looks up at the younger teen, "I missed something this morning didn't I?"

Kennedy plays it off with a seductive smile and a wink, "You mean this?" She leans down and captures the redhead's lips in a sensual kiss. Soft lips open and close against soft lips, finally Maggie pulls away with a smile a little flushed.

"Really nice," she touches Kennedy's face with her hand, "but not exactly what I meant."

"No?" Again she decides to skirt the issue. The dark eyed teen turns so that she is lying above Maggie her hands holding her weight from the other girl. "This?" She lowers herself onto her lover and their lips meet again.

To Kennedy's surprise Maggie turns them over and traps her beneath her, she breaks the kiss- "Nice try but I heard the phone," her soft eyes meet the younger girl's brown, "what aren't you telling me?"

Again Kennedy tries to evade the question this time with a half-truth, "Dad said he'd take care of it."

"Take care of what?"

"Maggie he'll fix it-we just might have to stay away longer than we thought."

"Why?"

"The police think I kidnapped you."

"What-why?" she answers her own question, "My dad-that-I'll show him," she moves from Kennedy and stands. She runs toward the car and the younger teen runs after her.

Just as Maggie gets to the car Kennedy catches her and wraps her in her arms, "Stop-what are you doing?"

"I won't let him-If I go back then everyone will know he made it up." She faces her lover.

"Go back-are you crazy?" Her dark eyes focus on the teenager in her arms, "If you go back now-he'll send you away."

"He's gonna do that anyway-I can't let him hurt you."

"I don't care about the police I trust my dad he'll make them understand. I just want-just -" tears slide down the teenager's face as her words stop. "I don't want to lose you-not yet, okay?"

Maggie fights tears, "I can't let you do this."

"It's my decision, Maggie. Mine."

Maggie nods, "Okay." She kisses Kennedy. As she breaks the kiss their eyes meet again. "Are you sure?"

"I've never been more sure of anything," Kennedy confides.

The day passes without incident. No one ventures to their retreat. The teens talk, snuggle and bask in the momentary peace they choose to see.

Two days later their peace is a little less peaceful as there is still no word from Kennedy's dad. They lie on the roof of the cabin and watch as the stars light the night. Kennedy can't help but smile as Maggie snuggles closer to her. "Cold?"

"A little," admits the redhead. Kennedy presses a kiss to her girl's lips and stands. "Noo-" pouts the teen. "Stay."

"I'll be right back," she climbs back through the loft window and into the cabin.

Maggie watches and her face turns sad, "What have I gotten you into?" She asks quietly.

Kennedy returns seconds later with a blanket, curls into her and covers them with the soft fleece blanket. "You're being awfully quiet," says the dark eyed teen as she presses a kiss to Maggie's hair. "Something not right?"

"What if your dad's in trouble too?"

"He's not," assures Kennedy. She turns the older girl to face her. "If you knew my dad, you'd know better-he's fine he knows too many people, people who owe him big time. So-don't worry. He's just being careful. That's how he is." He looks into Maggie's eyes and smiles. "I know what'll make you feel better."

"Jell-o?" Maggie smiles back.

"Well-yeah it would, but we're out so-" she smiles and raises an eyebrow playfully and then bites her bottom lip. "I'll just have to go to Plan B."

"Plan B?" Maggie leans closer unsure. "We have a Plan B?"

"There's always a Plan B," nods the younger girl as she leans forward and kisses her girlfriend softly.

"Is there food involved?" Pretending not to understand still.

"There could be-" she starts to stand again but Maggie takes her hand and holds her close. "I thought-"

Maggie's lips meet hers and as they part she whispers, "Stop thinking and show me Plan B."

"I can do that." She leans in and kisses her. She presses her body closer still and begins to open and close her lips against her girl's. Without hesitation Maggie joins in and the kiss begins to get intense. Needing air Kennedy pulls back and looks into lust darkened eyes. "So-you know Plan B?" She smiles.

"Never called it that-but yeah." She smiles too her thoughts racing and her worries gone. Kennedy kisses her and their hands start to explore on top of clothes and then under them as soft moans can now be heard from both.

The younger teen drags fingernails against the heated flesh of her lover's back as her lips find the soft skin of her neck. At her pulse point she nips and licks, then sucks gently. Maggie moves turning Kennedy so that she now rests under her-their lips meet again and they kiss passionately. As the older girl's hands begin to knead her breasts she moans loudly and tries to find needed friction. Pulling out of the kiss she pants, "In-Inside-" and is surprised as the redhead's fingers find her zipper and lowers it to slip against bare skin. "Maggie-" the girl's eyes meet hers.

"You don't want-" her words stop as Kennedy kisses her and deepens it immediately seeking entrance.

They break the kiss and the young would-be-Slayer forces out the words. "I want-just inside-" she looks toward the window.

Maggie blushes as she lowers her eyes, "Sorry I thought-"

"Definitely part of Plan B-but falling off the roof-not so much." She smiles and the older girl smiles too. They stand up gathering the blanket and make their way inside.

Maggie backs her to the bed and Kennedy bites her bottom lip as she lies back on it. The redhead slowly moves over her straddling her hips. She leans down and kisses her, "Where were we?"

She takes Maggie's hand and slides it inside her open jeans. "Right about here-" she holds back a moan.

"Too many clothes," says the girl in a whisper. Kennedy sits up causing Maggie to now sit on her lap. The redhead slides her hands up her lover's sides and removes her tank top. Reaching behind her she finds the clasp as well and soon the bra joins the other clothes in a heap. "Beautiful," sighs Maggie as her lips kiss across the brunette's collar bone and then down to her breasts. She teases there and Kennedy's hand tries to move her closer. Finally giving into her girlfriend's need she pulls the peak into her mouth.

"Ummm-yes-" moans the younger girl. She soon finds herself lying on the bed with her redhead doing wonderful things to her. Lips and hands explore causing Kennedy to writhe under her. Maggie moves her lips back to her lover's and they kiss. She pulls away and the younger girl whines, "Don't stop-"

Maggie smiles as she kisses her neck, "No worries there-" she whispers against her skin as her lips trail down her girl's toned, dark body. At her belly button her lover's tongue dips inside and she raises her hips from the bed. Maggie takes this opportunity to slide the dark eyed girl's jeans off her hips and down her legs. She kisses back up her leg starting at her foot and Kennedy giggles and tries to pull away, "Ticklish?"

"No-" lies the teen.

"Right," she smiles. "I'll have to remember that." She resumes her kisses-Kennedy's ankle, calf, knee-here she presses her lips gently against the inside of her thigh and rests her head there. Kennedy's breath is coming in gasps and she waits for her to gain a little control, not wanting it to end too soon. "You okay?" she whispers as she kisses the skin again. Her fingers trailing against it as well.

"Ah-" she tries to order thoughts but settles for a more direct approach. She spreads her legs farther and moves her hands to Maggie's hair.

"I'll take that as a yes-" she places her soft lips on Kennedy's hipbone as her fingers begin to gently explore slick folds.

"Please-" Kennedy gasps out. "Please." Maggie moves her lips and presses kisses toward the younger girl's center. She flicks her tongue against Kennedy's swollen nub and she cries out, "I'm gonna-Mag-" without further warning she explodes and Maggie smiles as she begins to drink.

A few minutes later Kennedy lies in Maggie's arms recovering. Her breathing is still labored and the redhead smiles, "You okay?"

"Mmmm-" is all she manages. Her eyes close but then flutter open. She wills her body to move though it is still like Jell-o. The thought makes her smile.

"Why the smile?," asks Maggie as she kisses her forehead.

"Jell-o." Maggie looks unsure. Kennedy finds her breath and clarifies, "My body feels like Jell-o. What you did to me-wow."

Maggie smiles again, "So you liked?"

"Ummm-" she rests her chin on her girlfriend's chest and their eyes meet. "Definitely." She leans and their lips meet, she tastes herself there. "Amazing." She lays her head on Maggie's chest and listens to the steady beat of her heart. "I love you," she whispers softly.

"I love you-now sleep. It's late."

Kennedy trails her fingers down her girl's body and they rest against her soft curls, "But you haven't-" her voice shows concern.

"I have-" she stops and starts again. "With you when you-"

"Yeah?"

"Unhuh-so sleep." Kennedy eyes close though her fingers stay put.

Hours later that is how the dark eyed girl awakes. Her fingers begin to caress and Maggie moans and opens her eyes. "Hey-" she smiles. "Whatcha doing?"

"Not tired anymore."

"I can tell-" she gasps, as the movement of Kennedy's fingers grows more sure.

"Okay?"

"Ummm-always," she closes her eyes and lets herself get lost in her lover's touch. "Feels so-"

"Ready-" she says a little surprised.

"I was having a really nice dream." She smiles as her hands begin to caress Kennedy's naked body as well.

"Was there Jell-o?"

"No-" she stops as Kennedy fingers begin to explore.

"Was there kissing?"

"Lots of kissing-everywhere." Their eyes meet with those words.

"Yeah-like kissing-"

"I know-" she bites her bottom lip as Kennedy's lips move down her body. She licks and nips along the way as she finally stops just below her belly button. She puts her hand in Kennedy's dark hair. "It's okay-you don't have-"

The teenager's first tentative lick stops her words as she moans. "I want-I just-what if I don't do it right?" She looks up at her girl.

"You know what they say about practice right?"

Kennedy smiles and dips her head back down. She places a soft kiss as she begins to explore. Maggie moans out her name.

Again they lie wrapped together as slick bodies try to recover. "You were amazing," says Maggie once she is able to speak.

"Yeah?" Kennedy bites her bottom lip and closes her eyes as she can still taste her girl there. She looks toward the window and sees the light starting to peek through, "Sun's up-"

"Don't want to move," she whines. "Just wanna stay here with you."

"And that's what we'll do." They snuggle closer together and their eyes start to flutter closed.

A few seconds later their eyes spring open as they hear a noise from outside. Maggie's face shows panic and Kennedy instantly goes into protect mode. "Shhh-stay put," she quietly makes her way toward the door.

Who Goes There?

Maggie is silent as she kneels in the closet wrapped in sheet. She listens for more noise but doesn't hear anything. She whispers, "Come on Kenn-"

Outside the young Slayer-to-be sneaks around the slide of the house, she finds nothing. As she nears the bedroom window she hears the noise again. This time closer to the source, she recognizes it-however it is too late as she is jumped from behind. Caught off balance her falls to the ground.

From inside the house Maggie can hear the noises and worries as she can tell there is a struggle. She reaches for the knob on the closet door and opens it slowly. She looks around as best she can from her position and then walks into the bedroom. She listens hears noises that sound familiar but just can't place them-maybe it's the fear that causes it.

Still wrapped in the sheet she makes her way to the living room as she gets within a couple of feet of the door it opens and she screams. A fury flash jumps from Kennedy's arms and runs around the room. She smiles as she sees the young teenager, dirty and a little scratched up. She almost laughs until she sees Kennedy doesn't appear happy. "Oh-are you okay?"

"That-that thing nearly killed me," pouts the brunette.

"Come here baby," she hugs her and then places a kiss on her slightly stained cheek. "She was just scared." She leaves Kennedy's side and moves across the room to the shaking little kitten. She reaches a hand toward the little black and white ball of fur but stops at her girlfriend's words.

"Careful you'll lose an arm," warns the younger girl. Maggie smiles and shakes her head as she kneels down and pets the kitten. After a few seconds she picks up the baby cat and looks up at Kennedy. "And why aren't you scratched and bleeding?"

"Could be I didn't sneak up on her in the dark-"

"Sneak-no way, it jumped on me from behind!"

"Or maybe she just likes me better," she says as she cuddles the baby kitten and it licks her face.

"Hey!"

"Jealous?"

"No-" she pouts as she moves closer. "But if I were you I wouldn't turn my back on it."

Maggie smiles and walks to the kitchen. She gets down a small bowl and sets it on the counter. She then gets the milk from the refrigerator. She pours some milk into the bowl and puts it on the floor. Maggie smiles at Kennedy as she puts the kitten down and it immediately starts to drink. "She's hungry-who knows how long it's been since she's eaten-,"

"Oh-less then five minutes since she took a bite out of me."

"You'd be a little cranky too if you were all alone in a strange place-" Maggie looks a little sad and the young brunette knows that it's not because of the cat.

She moves to her girl and wraps her arms around her, "You're not alone." She presses a kiss to her lips. As they pull back their eyes meet. "I meant it when I told you I loved you."

She forces a smile, "I know-it's just," her tears fall as her words stop. "I thought he loved me too. I miss my mom, she's probably worried."

"Want to call her?"

"Your dad said-"

"He said not to call him." The kitten on the floor meows and they look down at her. "What do you want?" asks Kennedy her tone cold but she smiles. "Come here," she reaches down to pick it up and it takes a swipe at her.

"Hey, now-" Maggie chastises the little fur ball as she picks her up without incident. "You play nice." She pets the kitten. "Hold out your hands."

Kennedy raises an eyebrow, her actions saying you've got to be kidding but her hands do as her girl asks without complaint. Maggie hands the kitten to the young would be Slayer. The older girl pets her. "See she's not gonna hurt you."

"That's good to know," pipes Kennedy.

"I was talking to the kitten," says Maggie with a smile.

"Whatever," she smiles. Kennedy's tone is serious again, "You think someone just left it out here?"

"No neighbors so yeah-probably."

"Who would do that?"

Maggie shakes her head, "Doesn't matter cause now she's got us-"

"Us?"

"Unless you're still afraid-"

"I was never afraid," protests Kennedy.

"Right, not you-" she smiles.

"Fine-okay-maybe a little but not now," she reaches down and pets the animal gently only to be hissed at. She hands her back to Maggie.

"Let's let her eat then try to bond okay?" says Maggie as she puts her back down.

"Fine by me-later fur ball." She steps farther away from the little kitten and pulls Maggie toward the living room. "Gotta say I love the new style, is it from Paris or Italy?"

Maggie looks down at the sheet she forgot she was wearing. "Just something I pulled on." She smiles.

"I can help pull it off," she raises an eyebrow suggestively.

"Can you now-?" She touches Kennedy's scratches, "Not too injured?"

"I think I'll be okay," she puts her arms around the redhead and pulls her as close as possible. Their lips meet in a passionate kiss. Kennedy slips her hands in the fold and the material starts to fall away. "Mmmm-this could catch on-easy access."

As the sheet falls to the floor Kennedy sits on it and lowers the redhead to her lap. Maggie straddles her girl and their lips meet in a series of slow sensuous kisses as the younger teen caresses bare skin sending shivers through Maggie's body and she moans.

Kennedy's hands begin to massage Maggie's breasts and again she moans, "Feels-" she stops as words fail her. She leans back onto the sheet and the younger girl moves with her, her body resting on the redhead's as her knee presses against Maggie's wetness. "Kenn-Oh-" she moans, her breathing coming in gasps. Kennedy begins to kiss down her girl's body as her hands map out the trail.

Later the sun is shining brightly through a half-open window as the teenagers lie tangled in the sheet. Kennedy's head rests on Maggie's bare stomach-her eyes flutter open as she feels something brush against her cheek. "Mmmm-Maggie-that tickles."

"What?" comes her girl's mumbled reply. She forces her eyes open about the same time as Kennedy and they see the kitten cuddled against the brunette asleep. "Awe-how cute is that?"

"Cute-" admits the younger girl. "But I'll bet you she tries to scratch me as soon as her eyes open." Maggie laughs and the kitten stretches. She opens her eyes and Kennedy becomes nervous. "Nice kitty?" The little ball of fur curls up on Kennedy's chest and closes her eyes.

"Smart kitten," smiles Maggie. Kennedy giggles.

Hours later after lunch and a walk around the woods the teenagers are sitting on the floor playing with their new pet. "Think we should name her?" asks Maggie.

"We could-how about Fur ball?" she smiles as she play wrestles with the animal.

"I'm serious," says Maggie as she rolls her eyes and swats Kennedy's arm.

"Sorry-" she looks up at her girl and smirks. "Attack Kitty?" Maggie gives her a look. "Okay-so no-what do you think?"

Maggie appears in deep thought and then she smiles, "We could call her 'Jell-O'-I mean if-" she stops suddenly not sure it was a good idea.

"Jell-O?" She touches the soft kitten. "She is kind of jiggly and bouncy like Jell-O, so yeah-" she nods and picks up the kitten and looks into it's blue eyes. "Jell-O."

That night just after watching the sunset, Maggie is sitting on the couch staring into the fire in the fireplace and playing with the cat. Kennedy comes in in her pajamas and holding her cell phone. She stands at the corner of the couch and touches the redhead's shoulder. Maggie looks up and sees the phone. "Call your mom."

"I shouldn't-" she tries to protest.

"Yeah you should," she leans down and kisses her softly. She picks up the kitten. "Come to bed when you finish?"

She nods and touches Kennedy's hand. The teenager nods and leaves. Maggie takes a deep breath and slowly opens the phone. She dials a number as it rings she begins to cry.

"Hello-" comes her mom's voice over the line.

"Mom-"

"Maggie are you okay?"

"I okay don't worry-" she hears voices in the background.

"Where are you?"

"I gotta go-Kennedy didn't do anything wrong. Tell 'em that."

"Okay-" her mom is crying.

"I have to go-I love you."

"I love you-we love you. Come home." Maggie fights tears and hangs up the phone.

Maggie stands and walks quietly to the door she sees Kennedy engrossed in the kitten. Her mind begins to race, her mom's words fill her thoughts. Maybe she was right, maybe she could just go home. She turns and walks back into the living room. She looks around and finds a piece of paper. The redhead scribbles a note and puts it on the couch. She walks to the door and puts her hand on the door knob. She looks back at their shared room and sees her girl's worried face. She opens the door-

Home Scary Home

"I have to-" she says through the rolled down window. Her tears fall.

"Please-" Kennedy pleads as her lover drives away. Refusing to cry the upset and anger brunette runs back into the house. She picks up the phone and dials her dad. The phone rings while she paces.

Finally he picks up, "Kennedy this isn't safe," he admonishes.

"She left-just now, I think she's going home. She called her mom-I don't know what happened. Please Daddy-"

"I'll get a car to you-twenty minutes tops."

"Don't let him hurt her-"

"I won't," he promises. "I'll go straight there okay?"

"Okay-" as she hangs up the tears finally fall. "Damn you Maggie-what are you doing?" The kitten circles her, brushing against her leg. Kennedy looks down at the animal and bends to pick it up. She pets it gently and it meows. "It's okay-I'm still here." The cat licks her hand as if trying to comfort her.

An hour later Kennedy is speeding toward Maggie's house with the kitten in a box at her side. The baby cat meows and tries to climb out. Her eyes still on the road the teenager tries to calm the animal. "Almost there-not much longer." She glances at her new pet and smiles as she touches it. "It'll be okay."

At Maggie's house, Kennedy's father knocks on the door. It opens and Mr. Rivers stands there scowling. "Who are you?-Police? Have you found my daughter and that-that-"

"I'd watch how you finish that sentence, that girl's my daughter." He takes a swing at Mr. Trevors but it is blocked and he finds himself on the ground on his knees as Mr. Trevors twists his wrist. "You should stick to hitting little girls."

As those words leave Kenneth Trevors' lips Mrs. Rivers appears at the door, "What does he mean by that Jim?"

"Maggie's black eye-"

"He's just trying to keep his delinquent daughter out of jail. He doesn't know what he's talking about."

Maggie steps in the doorway, "Yes he does." She looks at her mom.

"Maggie-" she moves to the teenager and hugs her tightly. "You okay?" She steps back to see the girl better. Maggie nods. Her mom hugs her tighter and kisses her forehead. "I was so worried."

"I didn't mean-" tears fall as her words stop.

"Shhhh-it's okay."

"Kennedy didn't-"

"I know-" she says softly. "Why don't you come inside and we'll talk?" she moves back again and takes her daughter's hand.

Mr. Trevors lets go of Mr. Rivers and he stands glaring at the man he sees as an intruder and then his daughter. "Get in the house-" he reaches to grab her but his hand is stopped by his wife.

"Don't touch her-" her eyes meet his and he sees the anger there. She drops his hand and takes a deep breath. "You should go-"

"Go? You're kidding-" he stops unsure.

"I'm not-" Maggie's hand tightens on hers. "I don't want you here right now."

"This isn't over-" he states as he meets their eyes and then storms out.

Twenty minutes later Maggie is in her pajamas, sitting on the couch with her mother's arms around her. Kennedy's dad is sitting in a chair across from them. They hear a knock on the door. Kenneth smiles, "I'll get it-pretty sure I know who it is."

He leaves the room and walks to the door. He opens it to find Kennedy looking up at him. "Daddy is she-" worry is strong in her voice and her words stop.

"She's here-she's upset. How are you?" Kennedy shrugs her shoulders battling tears. He leans down and hugs his child.

"Why'd she leave me?" she asks softly.

"She was trying to protect you-like you were trying to protect her. So-don't be too hard on her?"

She moves back and looks at her dad. He is surprised by her words, "I love her too much to be."

He smiles and nods. They walk into the living room together. He looks at Mrs. Rivers, "This is my daughter Kennedy."

Mrs. Rivers stands. "So little-so brave." She smiles at the teenager, "I've heard a lot about you in the last few minutes." Kennedy feels nervous as the woman moves closer. "Thank you for taking care of Maggie." She hugs her. She steps back and her eyes meet Maggie's. "The two of you should talk. Kenneth would you help me in the kitchen with the refreshments?"

"Of course," he follows her from the room.

Kennedy looks at her girl sitting on the couch her eyes red from the many tears. Unsure Maggie stands and walks to her. "I'm sorry-I just missed my mom."

"I get that-believe me." She holds her arms open and Maggie steps into them. They hold each other tightly. "I'm just glad you're okay." She presses a kiss to her temple. "I was afraid he'd-"

"Mom made him leave when she found out that he had hit me." Kennedy leans her forehead against Maggie's and they look into each other's eyes. "You're really not mad?"

"Really not mad-" she touches her cheek with soft fingers. She leans forward and kisses her softly. Maggie moves her arms around Kennedy's neck, as the kiss grows more intense. The younger girl finally pulls back for air. "That's nice," she whispers as she bites her bottom lip.

"Mmm-let me," says the redhead with a smile as she takes the lip between her teeth and nips playfully. They giggle a little, softly but soon are kissing again. This time it is Maggie who breaks the kiss. "I love you."

"I love you-oh-I almost forgot!" she lets go of the girl and starts to the door.

"Kennedy where are you going-" confusion fills her words.

"Be right back-I left something in the car." She jogs out the door.

Maggie is standing at the door confused as her mom and Kennedy's dad stop beside her. "Is something wrong?" asks the man.

"She said she left something in the car," answers the girl. A few seconds later Kennedy returns with the little kitten curled in her arms. Maggie can't stop the smile that spreads across her features. " Jell-O!"

"She missed you-almost as much as me."

"A cat!" exclaims Mrs. Rivers and she begins to sneeze immediately.

"Kennedy-Mom's allergic."

"Sorry," she back pedals to the door. "I didn't mean to-I didn't know."

"It's okay-" says the woman as she finally stops the sneezing.

"Now what do we do with her?" Kennedy looks unsure.

Her dad speaks, "I guess you'll have to keep her so Maggie can come visit."

"You mean it Daddy, I can keep her?" He nods. "But the no pet rule?"

"All rules have exceptions," he states.

"So all rules are made to be broken?" She asks with a smile.

"I didn't say that-" he tries to cover his tracks.

"That's not what he said," confirms Maggie's mom.

The teenagers laugh and walk to the front porch with the animal. Maggie takes her from Kennedy and pets her gently. "I can't believe you brought her."

"Kinda surprised me too." She smiles, "But she's ours so-it seemed like I should."

"I'm glad you did," she leans over and kisses her girl.

Maggie tries to hide a yawn, "It's late-been a long few days-I should go and you should get some sleep." She kisses her chastely.

"Don't want you to go-" she pouts.

"Don't want that either, but I'll see you tomorrow." She looks down at the kitten. "Won't we Jell-O?"

"Okay-" she says still pouting, "But I'll miss you." She kisses them both, then kisses Kennedy again.

In the bushes, at the corner of the porch, Mr. Rivers watches.

Surprises

Her dad crosses the room. "Are the suitcases packed?" Her mom nods.

"What's going on?" asks Maggie.

Maggie's mom turns to her daughter, "We're leaving."

"No-" she states and moves toward the door only to be grabbed by her dad. "Let me go."

"This is for your own good," says Mrs. Rivers. "Obviously you're not thinking clearly at the moment."

Pleading, "You can't do this-"

"It's done-the jet's on the runway."

"I won't leave her, I love her and she loves me-" tries Maggie.

"That's ludicrous-you are not in love with a girl. This foolishness will stop once we're gone."

Maggie is reduced to tears as she is dragged away by her father.

At Kennedy's the teenager is playing on the bed with the kitten. She holds string in the air and the small cat tries to get it from her. She looks at the door when she hears a soft knock. Her father smiles slightly and shakes his head. "You should sleep." He steps into the room and kisses her on the forehead.

"Can't-" she says as she pulls the cat closer and playfully wrestles with it.

"Maggie's fine- and things are cleared up with the authorities."

"True-it's just, it's been a wild few days."

"A lot to deal with, I understand. You want to talk?" He asks as he sits down beside her on the bed and starts playing with the animal without realizing it.

Kennedy smiles at his actions, "I like that-how about lunch tomorrow?"

"Meet me at the office at one?"

"I'll be there." She kisses him on the cheek. "Night Daddy I love you. " She says as he stands.

"Good night Kennedy," I love you. He smiles at the kitten, "Good night-" his eyes met his daughter's. "What's its name?"

Kennedy smiles, "Jell-O." Her dad nods and leaves.

The next morning Kennedy is up early. She grabs a bottle of juice from the fridge as she goes out the door. She starts to get in her car but decides to walk the few blocks to Maggie's house. She thinks the morning air will help clear her head, her thoughts are still whirling about inside.

As she crosses the street she sees a moving van. Her heart starts to race and she jogs the remaining distance. She steps into the foyer and sees that the house is nearly empty. She looks around frantically but sees no one. She bolts out the door and runs into a mover. "Sorry kid-didn't see you."

"Where are they?"

"Left last night we were told to pack it up and put it in storage. The house goes on the market tomorrow."

"No-that can't be right. I was here last night." She fights to keep tears at bay.

"That's what I was told-" he goes back to loading boxes.

Kennedy runs out the door and back toward her house as the tears stream down her cheeks. "This can't happen-" she whispers as she stops to let traffic pass.

Later she bursts through the door of her dad's office interrupting a meeting, "Kennedy-" he sees her tears and is instantly worried. "Excuse me-" he looks at those in attendance. "Jerry if you could-" the man nods. He puts an arm around his daughter and they step into the hallway. "What's wrong?"

"They're gone-the house is almost empty-" she struggles for words around sobs.

"Who?"

"Maggie-they're gone." She buries her head against his chest and bawls. He holds her tightly unsure of what to do to help his only child.

Willow holds her girl as she fights back tears, "But she called you right?"

Kennedy shakes her head as she takes a step back from her lover. "No-never until yesterday."

"How long has it been?"

"Almost six years." Kennedy tries to compose herself. "Why now?"

"I don't know-"

"Did I do the right thing telling her it was okay to come by?"

"I think so-you need answers."

"I love you now-" states the Slayer.

"I know," smiles the redhead as she kisses her softly. "You'll see her, you'll talk-you'll feel better."

"Promise?"

"Promise-in fact I guarantee it." She kisses her again, as it deepens and Kennedy's tongue finds Willow's, the doorbell rings. The redhead pulls away, "Want me to get it?"

"No-" she leans her forehead on her girl's and rests a hand on the redhead's rounded stomach. They both smile, "Can we name her Jell-O?" teases Kennedy.

"I don't think so-" they go to the door hand-in-hand. The Slayer opens it to meet the eyes of her first love. The redhead stands nervously in front of the couple. "Maggie-hi-" she holds out her hand, "I'm Willow, I've heard a lot about you." Maggie shakes her hand.

"Hi."

Kennedy finds her voice as she stares at the woman before her, "Come in-" she states and they walk across the room.

"Why don't I get some tea?" Kennedy nods and squeezes her love's hand then let's it go. Willow leaves the room.

"Maggie-"

She nods, "I don't know what to say."

"Tell me where you've been-why you called after all the years."

"My parents moved us across the world-I've been in Japan-mostly-a few months in Brazil at the beginning."

"My Dad, he looked for you-" says the Slayer.

"He changed our names-it was like I never was. Every time I found a way to get word to you he found out. I didn't understand how at first but then-"

"Cameras?" She nods. "It must have been awful."

"I worried that you would think I didn't care about you-" Maggie has tears slip down her cheeks.

"I never thought that-not once," assures the younger woman.

"Good-I'm glad." She looks toward the door Willow had disappeared through, "You're happy?"

"I'm happy-" agrees Kennedy with a smile.

"And a baby-wow-how soon?"

"A couple of months."

"That's great, it's good I hoped you were happy."

"How about you-someone special?"

Maggie nods as her eyes meet Kennedy's chocolate ones. "Yeah-you'd like her-she sails and she loves animals."

"Will's not so crazy about pets," admits Kennedy.

"I remember someone else who was a little unsure in the beginning."

"True-" they laugh and Willow smiles as she hears them. She comes back with iced tea for them and hot herbal tea for herself.

"The laughing is good right?"

"It's all of the good," she pulls her girl tight, puts her hand on Willow's stomach and smiles as a thought crosses her mind. Here she was in the same room with the woman she loved first and the woman who she would love last. She couldn't stop the smile that covered her face. The baby kicks against her hand and Kennedy's eyes move to her redhead's. "Why don't we all go get lunch?"

Willow shakes her head, "This little one needs to rest," her girl says as she puts her hand next to Kennedy's on her rounded stomach.

"You okay?"

"Just tired, but the two of you should go-catch up."

"I don't know-" starts Maggie.

"Go-" she levels her resolve face at her girl.

"See that look?" asks Kennedy and Maggie nods. "That means we can't win, so we should just go." She stands and kisses Willow. "We won't be long," says her Slayer.

"Take your time-I'm thinking bubbles before bed." They all smile.

Send Feedback to the Author

Return to the Stand Alone Story Page

Return to the Site Home Page