“Oh god Tara, how long were you there?”

“Well, the thing with time is that it’s relative. It was only about a month but it felt like forever. I mean, I thought I knew how long forever was, with Willow it felt like every kiss lasted forever but really, you can only measure time when it’s somewhere bad.”

Suddenly Tara’s arm shot out and Xander found himself flipped over, landing heavily on his back at the feet of the women with Tara’s boot clad foot resting in his throat.

“What the….?” he croaked.

“Oh *****, Xander I’m sorry, automatic reaction!” Tara apologised softly, helping the stunned man to his feet.

Rubbing his throat gingerly, Xander backed slowly away from the blonde, regarding her with genuine nervousness. “I just wanted to know if you wanted a soda or something?” he said carefully.

“We’ll be in in a bit, but I’d love a cup of tea if Giles is making a pot!” Tara smiled sweetly as Xander circled her, his eyes watching her cautiously.

“So the thing is, whatever this Big Bad is, then I could be useful with the fighting.” Tara turned her attention back to Buffy as Xander closed the door firmly behind him.

“I noticed!” Buffy smiled slyly. “Ok, Tara, I don’t want to have to ask this but I need to know.” Sadness crept into her tone and she forced herself to meet the blondes eyes. “Are you dangerous?”

Tara smiled sadly. “I can be, but only to the things that deserve it!” she added with a small chuckle, hoping to put the slayer at ease.

“Well as long as you’re with us then I guess it’s all good!” Buffy smiled, taking to her feet and heading back inside. Tara followed her slowly. Stopping at the front door, Buffy turned and hugged the blonde tightly. “Thanks for telling me.” she whispered before pushing the door open and heading back into the house.

”I bet that ***** is there telling everyone how I beat Willow, turning them against me, well ya know what? I don’t need them. I’m strong and know how to fight. I’ll show them, I’ll prove that I’m better than all of them, especially that has been!!”