Disclaimers:  Hmmm, yeah well it's been forever and a day since I updated these two. I think it's about time.  I don't own the likeness someone else does just using them to suit my purpose. This may be the last story with Tara and Gab after this one they feel finished to me.  As for Lil and Caitlin, I think there is one or two left.  Hope you guys enjoy.  It's supposed to be my take of   "A Day in the Life" format.  It's good to be back.  

A Day in Our Lives

(AKA "Snow Days")

By

Minerva

Chapter 1

Tara hummed as she put an obscene amount of sugar into the chocolate flavored coffee. With that done, she started on the cream. She continued to hum as she placed the hot biscuits, eggs, and piles of bacon onto a single plate then onto a tray.  It was the middle of the week, but there was an ungodly amount of snow on the ground.  It was not enough to stop the city, but it was enough to stop her.  The brunette did not mind one bit if that meant she got to "sleep in"  with a certain strawberry blonde wrapped tight around her.  It did not matter that her brother was trapped in the house with them.  It was his fault for popping up in the first place. Besides, he had earphones with his IPOD.  A slow smile graced her lips and as she turned, the mechanic burst into all out song. "Aah, aah dude look like a lady... aah aha dude look like a --"

"Oh my fucking God! My eyes... I'm blind. It's a naked woman. It's a naked sister!"

"Goddammit!"  Tara exclaimed.

Gabrielle came speeding around the corner, pulling on her robe in the process. "What?!"

In total dramatic fashion befitting a drag queen, Jake swooned, covered his eyes and reached out as if feeling the air. "Didn't you hear me the first time!?  I'm blind, Red!"

Gabrielle covered her mouth to hide the laughter erupting as she took in the scene.

"Turpentine! Wash them out with turpentine!"

The shaking blonde laughed harder and nearly doubled over when she caught her lover rolling her eyes.  She winked at the mechanic and grabbed her pseudo brother in law, dragging him out of the kitchen.

"Behave, it's not like it's the first time."  She told him with mock seriousness.

"Yeah, but this was a full frontal and her nipples!  Have you seen them?  They're huge!"

The writer chuckled. "I like them that way."

"Look, I'm really glad you guys worked everything out, but this is too much."

Gabrielle clapped him on the back.  "Whatever. Since you ruined my breakfast in bed, after your sister gets dressed  why don't we all eat together?"

"Ugh, it depends on what you mean about eat!"

Gabrielle squinted her eyes and pursed her lips.

"Fine! If you'll protect me from the nipples!"  Jake retorted loudly.

"I heard that queenie!"

Jake chuckled, "I'll see you guys in a few minutes."

When Gabrielle made it back to the bedroom, the mechanic was pulling on a t-shirt.  Said nipples were pointing majestically in her direction.  Unable to resist since it was the topic of the morning, she reached out to tweak one.

"Red!  Now you behave or we'll never make it to breakfast."  Tara smirked and her eyes were filled with a mixture of sensual promise and mirth.  "Besides there is always later."  Her eyebrows wiggled.

The writer laughed. "Promises, promises.  So, are you traumatized?"

Tara shook her head and smiled, "You know, the scary thing is that I'm actually used to everyone seeing the naked."

Gabrielle ambled forward and tilted her head upward for a kiss, and her lover obliged her.  "Mmm, that's good. I don't think I will. I still get all tingly when I see you."  She reached under the brunette's t-shirt, flattening her palms against the washboard stomach.

Tara stopped wandering hands from going further and gave the writer a stern look.  "Thank God someone thinks I'm hot shit. He's meeting us at the table for breakfast?"

The strawberry blonde sighed and pouted. "Yep, So what are we going to do today since we're probably stuck here until they get the roads plowed?"

Tara looked thoughtful, "We could play pin the tail on the drag queen?"

The blonde scoffed, "Be serious."

The phone began to ring.

"I was.  Why don't you get that? I'll see you in a minute."

The writer waved her lover away as she reached for the phone. Tara stopped in the doorway, leaning against it and just watching.  I can't believe we made it back to each other. It was very scary for a while, but I guess a little therapy goes a long way.  I know more about her now than I did when we first started dating.  I know that was part of the problem, and now it feels like I see something new in her everyday.  I like it that way.

The sound of the blonde's laughter pulled Tara from her reverie.  It was the truth. They had come a long way.  They did not live together at the moment, but T knew that they were getting there.  Smiling at the sound of the blonde's continued laughter and knowing that it had become commonplace again sent her back into a fit of humming.  She suddenly hoped her brother was out and about so that could serenade him properly with the song that had been in her head all morning. It was perfect for him.  The mechanic hummed loudly as she walked down the hallway. It was kind of a new hobby but what the hell it was kind of a new day.

Chapter 2

Jake snatched the remote from his sister's hands and stuck out his tongue. "Let's watch E!  It's a lot more interesting than cartoons."

"Let's not and say we did."  With a quickness that astounded her sibling, Tara took the remote back.  "We could compromise and watch Court TV. I think that has plenty of drama and entertainment value."

"Ohh, such big words.  The writer rubbing off on you?"

Tara smiled dreamily.  "Rubbing something."

"Ah, ewww."

"Stop it you're just jealous."  

Jake paused thoughtfully, "You could be right about that."

"Tired of spreading yourself around?"

"Yeah, especially since my HIV test was negative.  Just the scare was enough to make me think."

"Well don't do it unless you're ready. It ain't as easy as it looks."

"I don't know, T.  I've seen other people make it look as easy as pie.  Maybe we're just cursed."

Tara glanced at her brother, intrigued by his words.  "You mean things are just gonna be hard for us all the way around?"

Jake curled up his lip as if he smelled something bad.  "Could be. We have the looks. Can't have everything."  

Blue peered into blue.

"That's crap you little fuck shit. That's victim talk."

Jake canted his head to the side, deep in momentary contemplation.  "That was some negative shit I was spouting, huh?"

"Uh huh, keep it up.  I'm gonna bury your ass in the snow."

"Yeah, and I'll break your hand.  What would Red do without it?"

"I got another one."

"Ugh, probably using your foot too.  Don't you just love the honeymoon period?  How are you two able to tear yourselves away from each other this long?"

Tara rolled her eyes and shrugged, "She had work to do, and the day isn't over yet, queenie."  She waved the remote in his face.

Jake promptly stole it and turned to E!

"Hey!"

---

Gabrielle smiled at the sound of their bickering.  She had missed it dearly. It was strange really how she could miss things that she never really paid attention to like doing the mechanic's laundry or counting how many curse words she used in a day.  She missed it all and now her life was so much more full than before.  Her trust ran deeper; her love ran deeper.  The journey they had been on to get this place had been important but now that they had arrived, this ... day to day living was paramount.

The writer's smile became a distracted smirk.  She peered at the blinking cursor on the monitor. After three hours, she had written only five pages.  The blond was not worried, knowing that it was not writer's block in any conventional sense.  It was more a rearrangement of her priorities and at the moment, the tall, leggy blue eyed wonder in her living room took precedent.  Besides, there was plenty of time for writing having gotten an extension on her next book. I'm thankful that I even have the capacity to be creative. I would have thought killing a man would have changed all that. Therapy really is a wonderful thing.  Refusing to get bogged down with disturbing thoughts of the past, Gabrielle's memories extended to the night before; the night before that; the week before; and the week before that.  I thought sex had been good between us before. Now, there are no words for it, and shouldn't there be a law or something that limits the amount of orgasms you can have in a day? The writer licked her lips and squirmed in her seat.  The pleasant pull of soreness made her shudder. "I guess not."  She rose and walked into the hallway with purpose.

"Goddammit, J!  You asshole give it here!"

Jake jumped up from the couch and shoved the remote down his pants. "I was right in the middle of a show!  How rude are you?"  He paused and smiled cheerily. "Come get it.  I dare you."

Two sets of ice blue eyes squinted as one attempted to stare down the other.

"Now, boys. Do I have to sit here and teach you to play nice with each other?" Gabrielle quirked a brow and waited for an answer.

"You can teach her some manners!"

"Hey, it's Red's TV.  That makes it as good as min, so-"

Green eyes swung the mechanic's way. Her gaze softened then turned lascivious.  "Speaking of what's yours. Can I talk to you for a minute?"

Tara's heart quickened and her stomach twisted pleasurably. "Uhm, yeah...I-"

"Just follow me."  Gabrielle crooked a finger.

"Kay."  The mechanics breath came out in a whoosh, and she found that when she tried to catch it back, breathing was lost to her completely.

"Bow chicka wow wow..."  The brunette heard somewhere in the background. She ignored it.  With each step she took, she concentrated more and more on the hips that swiveled in front of her. She did not dare touch her, knowing that there would be no time or inclination to make it to a nearby room.

Gabrielle walked on wobbly legs into her office.  She sat on the edge of her desk and watched as the mechanic closed the door behind her. The air crackled between them.  Blue met green and the room was seated with the heat.

"You wanted something?"  Tara asked hoarsely.

"Uh huh." Gabrielle reached for the belt of her jeans.  Hastily, she unbuckled it and ripped the zipper down without breaking eye contact.

"Need some inspiration...something to get your juices flowing?"  Tara moved slowly, intentionally.

"Uh huh."  The blonde's chest heaved as she fought for air.  She kicked off her pants and underwear and spread her legs wide as the brunette stepped into the inviting "v".   

Tara's tongue snaked out to meet her lover's lips.  Gabrielle moaned as she parted for her. The kiss was languid, soft and teasing.  Tara nipped at the blonde's mouth until she began to whimper.  

Gabrielle wound a hand into the brunette's hair, pulling harshly.  "Don't tease."

With one last hard kiss, Tara pulled away.  "You want me baby?"

"Uh huh."

"That bad?"

Gabrielle reached between her legs, brushing her fingertips over sensitive, moist flesh.  Without looking at the appendages, she brought them back up and forced them into her lover's mouth.  "Uh huh."

Tara growled as she sucked.  In one smooth motion, she pushed the blond further onto the desk and kneeled in front of her. The sight and the smells that greeted her made her head swim.  She dove right in.

"Ah fuck!"  Gabrielle shoved her fist into her mouth to keep from screaming and tangled the other into dark tresses. The brunette's tongue felt as if it were everywhere at once; licking, lapping, teasing.  Her clit throbbed and screamed in pleasure as if it had a mind of its own.  Lips sucked and nipped sending her to a place that every woman should visit often.

Tara moaned as the taste and textures sent her own body into a tale spin.  She spread the blonde's legs wider as she delved deeper.  The brunette's sex pulsed with each muffled cry the writer uttered. Still, she wanted, needed more.  Tara speared her tongue deep, feeling wet flesh pulse around her.  A strangled sound from above  signaled that she did not have long to enjoy this particular exploration. So, Tara reveled in it, meshing her whole face into lover's sex.

An ear splitting cry and a flood of moisture signaled that it was time to move on.  She rose quickly, majestically, pulling the blond to her. Without any warning at all, she slid in three fingers.

"Oh God!  I can't-"

With as much endearment as possible Tara whispered, "Shut up," before covering the writer's mouth with her own. She wanted to go slow, but her own need dictated another route. Each thrust was high, hard, and deep.  The wet smack of flesh; the sounds of the blonde's pleasure; and the smell of it all wafting in the air was too much. Tara tore her mouth away and came with a mighty shout.  Gabrielle dug her nails into the brunette's t-shirted shoulders as orgasm swamped her senses, wringing her dry.  Unable to muster a scream, she mewled piteously. 

It seemed like forever passed before either of them spoke. 

"Whoa," the writer mumbled.

"Uh huh."  The mechanic retorted and chuckled when her lover smacked her on the shoulder.

"Bow chicka wow WOW!"  Came for the vicinity of the hallway.

The blond blushed scarlet before bursting into laughter.

"Don't worry.  I already know where I'm going to bury him."

Chapter 3

Jake knew it was probably best to make himself scarce even though it was quiet some time later.  He adjusted the volume to his IPOD, closed his eyes and began nodding his head to the music.  He colored twenty different shades of surprise when the writer taped him on the leg.  The brunette let out a squeal and put a hand over his heart before removing the earphones.  They stared at each other for several long minutes. Then burst into peels of laughter.

"Red, oh God, you gotta...stop!" Jake huffed.

Gabrielle sighed, "Geez you'd think we were a couple of ten year olds."

Jake wiped his eyes.  "S-so you're not mad?  At the moment, it seemed like a good idea.  I couldn't help but hear you while I was walking down the hall."

Gabrielle shook her head.  "Not mad really. It kinda made things seem like a really, really hot porno with some sort of weird comedic edge."

"Hmm, I bet your other half is liv-id,"  he sang the word extending the syllables. 

"Eh, she'll get over it faster if you don't tease her about it."

"My God, you might as well be asking me to part the Red Sea!"

"I mean it, Jake." Her expression was stern and serious.  "You know how sensitive she is sometimes even though she hides it well."

"Mmm, alright.  It just feels like things are back to normal."

"Well, it is, but it's better than normal."  The writer stated dreamily.

They peered at each other and began laughing again.

"Yeah, that was too much."

"No, Red, it was sweet in a icky gooey kind of way. Don't do it again."

Gabrielle held up her hand, "You have my word."

"So where is she now?"

"Watching the History Channel. There is a special about motorcycles throughout history."

"Ah, well could be interesting.  I watched one of those about the history of the toilet, damned if I wasn't glued to the TV just about the whole time."  He paused and stood. "I"ll go keep her company and I'll behave. What are you gonna do?"

"Fix a late lunch. I'm starving!"

"Who wouldn't be after fucking a marathon," Jake whispered.

Green eyes squinted. "What did you say?"

Jake smiled, "I said I wanted pancakes and Billy Ray."

The writer's eyes rolled.  "Just keep her busy and out of the kitchen.  We don't need to be alone together for a while or else I won't have any skin left."

"Eww, images."

-----------

Jake plopped down on the couch beside his sister.  He grinned, "I know that I'm not who you were expecting but I love you too." He batted his eyelashes.

"Yeah, but I can't make out with you."

"Ah, no but if we were step siblings and the whole gay thing I might give it a go.  Remember that movie? What was the name of it?"

"Ohh, you mean the one with the girl from Anne of Green Gables in it?!"

"Yeah!"

"I don't know. Can't remember. Let's go Google it!"

They both got up excitedly and headed to the writer's office.  They fought over who got to sit in the chair.  Tara won.  "I got it fair, bitch."

"Fine, fine just hurry up. I hate not knowing."

"What was her name?"

"Anne...of Green Gables.  You need me to spell it?"

Tara elbowed her brother in the stomach and chuckled.  "I miss this shit don't you.  I'm glad we're having fun again. And God, its nice knowing that I'm not as big a fuck up as I thought I was."

Still wallowing in good humor, Jake sobered somewhat. "Then there's hope for both of us because I thought this drama was going to really mess you up."

"Me too."

"Glad you're back, sis."

"Eww do you have to get all mushy?  Don't push it. I owe you one."

Jake pursed his lips together tightly, fighting the temptation.  His eyes widened.  "I got it! Megan Follows!  That's her name!"

"Aww, yeah!"  Tara scanned through the actress' filmography.  "Oh, "Sins of Innocence."

"That's it.  I wonder if we could get that on DVD?"

"Probably not since it was a made for TV movie."

"Aw well."  He waved his hand in dismissal.  "How did we get on this subject again?"

"Because your pervert ass wanted to make out."

"Ah, now it makes sense. Back to the motorcycles?"

"Yeah, I'm gonna stop by the kitchen and grab a drink. You want anything?"

"Coke. Go easy on the ice."  Jake watched her go.  I'm sure Red will be fine. Skin grows back doesn't it?

The kitchen door opened with a near silent whoosh. Tara spotted her lover tip toeing in an effort to get a jar of something out of one of the higher cabinets.  Without making a sound, the mechanic snuck up behind the blonde, leaned over hear and snatched the item form its hiding place.

"Dammit T! You scared three years off me!"

"Uh, hmm, looks like we're going to have to work on stretching your legs later."

Gabrielle melted then grinned.  "You say the sweetest things."

"I know."

The writer slapped her lover on the shoulder.  "What are you doing in here anyway?"

"Drinks. What smells good?"

"Pasta Alfredo with sun dried tomatoes and shrimp."

"Oh, sounds good."

Tara followed the writer back to the stove, peering over her shoulder into the bubbling pot.

Gabrielle dipped the spoon in and brought it back to her mouth to check for seasoning. "Mmm, wanna taste?"

"Hell, yes, it looks good."

The blonde spun and wrapped her arms around the mechanic's neck.  "Yes, you do. Taste the same way too."

Tara could feel the hot flush creeping up her neck.

"Oh my...are you blushing?"

"No, I-"

"That's so cute that I have that effect on you."

Tara hiked an eyebrow an smirked rakishly.  "I like the other effects too."  Her head bowed slightly to reach the writer's lips.

They kissed leisurely, moving their bodies slowly from side to side as if dancing.  Gabrielle pulled away. She could feel the heat in her face.  'I love this...whatever this is between us. It's too bad we had to go through so much to get here."

"I know.  I was so scared when we first started dating that it was just sex and when it became more than that I think we had to retrace our steps."

Gabrielle sighed, "So much has happened and we're having more sex now than we did before.  What do you think that means?"

"It means, I love you."  The mechanic whispered.  "I can't keep my hands off of you, and since we've opened up to each other everything is more intense."

"Hmm, that's a thought. It could also be that we're trying to fuck away the guilt we're feeling."

"Is that so bad?  I think the Doc said it was normal."

"No not bad.  I just want you to forgive yourself."  The writer ran a finger down the brunette's nose to her lips before winding a hand in dark hair.

"I'm getting there, Red. What about you?"

"Me?  What I did-"

Gabrielle gave under the sharp gaze. "Okay, no, not yet ... not completely, but I guess you know that."

"Yes, I do, and you know what? It's okay."

"It is isn't it?"

"Mmmhmm."  Tara leaned in for a quick kiss.

Gabrielle returned the gesture then turned, heading toward the refrigerator. "Beer for you. Coke for Jake."

"You know me so well."

"Yes, I can say that I do."  They grinned at each other like school girls with a secret before the writer stood on tip toes to make deeper contact.  She nipped at the brunette's bottom lip then soothed it with her tongue.  Breathing became heavy.

"Hey, look what the snow threw up."

The couple groaned at the intrusion.

"Just can't leave you two alone."

"Whatever, queenie. Now, what were you talking about?"  The mechanic asked her brother.

Shannon stepped from behind the taller man. He took off the green toboggan and matching gloves, shoving them into the pockets of the thick, black parka.  "Ugh, I couldn't stand being at home alone anymore.  They have to roads pretty clear. Still icy though, and I had to dig myself out of my driveway."  He paused to take a breath.  " I needed to be around another human.  So, here I am."  He spread his arms wide and looked at his friends expectantly.

Gabrielle smiled sadly, "Hungry?  We were about to have a late lunch."

"Don't ask them why it's late?!"  Jake announced.  Two sets of eyes zeroed in on him one the color of his own and the other an interesting shade of green. "Wha-oh, I forgot."  Jake put a arm around Shannon and took the parka as the other man took it off.  "Sorry, man. That was insensitive.  I've been acting like an ass all day. It's hard to give it up."

Shannon ducked his head.  When he looked backup, a watery smile graced his face. "No, no it's okay.  I didn't come here to bring everybody down.  I know I got what I deserved--"

"Stop it, Shan!" Gabrielle ordered through gritted teeth.

"No, it's okay. I'm glad you guys made it through, but I don't think we will.  After all, I did the deed completely."  He covered his face to hide the tears. "I said I wasn't going to do this...talk about it; think about it; I just wanted company."

Gabrielle rushed over to her best friend, engulfing him in a hug.  "It's okay. You're always welcome no matter what."

Shannon sobbed. "I'm sorry but thank you.  I should probably start calling before I pop over. It's going to be hell being a friend to both of us."

"I can handle it.  It's a small thing, you know compared to everything else."

"Yeah, I gotcha. So,"  He sucked in a breath.  "Somebody going to get me a beer?"

Tara smiled as she did the honors but her eyes communicated understanding. She put an arm over her friend's shoulder and ushered him out of the kitchen.  "We'll be back," she muttered over her shoulder.

Tara showed him into the writer's office.  Where he promptly began to cry again.

"Hurts like fuck. I know."

"H-how do you get passed it?"

"Take the time to forgive yourself and it does take... some time."

"You there yet?"

"Almost."

"I'm so glad you guys are okay.  It's been great seeing you climb all over each other the past couple months."  Shannon sniffled.  "But how did you do it?  Was the therapist that good? No offense."

Tara's smile was no more than a baring of teeth.  "None taken.  Therapy helped but we had to want to do the work. Let me tell you that was the hardest shit I've ever done.  I felt like I was naked all the time.  Now, I realize that she's naked with me.  That made it easier.  Is Wayne talking to you?"

Shannon shook his head.  "No and from what I hear he didn't waste any time getting back on the ho train."

"Can you blame him?"

"No."

"Then you gotta figure out if you're going to wait or move on. I know you love him, but--"

"Sometimes that's not enough."

"Yeah, and sometimes it's everything."

Shannon plucked a hand full of Kleenex from a nearby box.  "Thanks, I needed to hear that."

Tara smirked. "Help you any?"

Shannon grinned back. "Not the least bit."

Tara slapped him on the back. "That's what friends are for. Let's go eat."

Chapter 4

They crowded around the dining table. The platter in the middle had been almost totally depleted and the table was littered with bottles of beer and cans of soda.  Mirth surrounded them.

"You're kidding?!  She did that?" Shannon asked as he sipped on his second beer.

"Yep, I thought I was going to puke from laughing so hard." Gabrielle answered. "But it's never been boring between us."

"It's Jake's fault.  He was supposed to go grocery shopping!  Besides isn't it the thought that counted?"  Tara nearly pouted.

"But T! Fried bologna with sour cream? That doesn't even go together.  Why didn't you just take her out?"  Shannon continued to inquire.

"Hey, I was dressed nice while I made it, and it wasn't about going out it was about us being together."  The mechanic smirked.  "I knew I had her when she ate it anyway."

"You had me long before then." The blond wiggled her eyebrows.

"Oh my God!  She has that move down!"  Jake snickered.  "But really did you kiss? Was it awkward to be dating again?"

Gabrielle shook her head. "Wasn't awkward at all.  Kinda felt like coming home after being outside waiting for a long time."

Blue met green in silent understanding. I want to live here forever, Red no matter how much we have to renovate.

There was a collective gasp then "Aww."

Jake made hacking noises, "I thought we had a convo about icky sappy?"

"Shut up Jake!  We've got to get you a man."  His sister added.

"I can get my own men. Thank you."

Everyone snorted.

Jake pointed at each one individually, "Fuck you, fuck you and fuck you and so on."

They all laughed.

"So what are we doing tonight?" Gabrielle interjected.

"I was thinking we could just buy a bunch of movies off of pay per view--" Tara started.

"I don't think so. Let's go to R Place." Jake interrupted.

"It's cold as shit outside. Who's gonna come out in that?" Tara rebutted.

"You'd be surprised especially since there's not going to be more snow. The place will be packed because people have been cooped up all day."  Shannon muttered.

"So what do you think?" Tara asked her lover.

"It's fine with me.  We haven't been there for ages. Is there a show tonight you think?"

"I'm sure they'll throw something together, but I think I'll sit this one out. I've had a lot of fun today." 

Eyes turned on him.  "Okay, mainly at other people's expense.  I mean, yeah, we see each other almost everyday; we talk; we joke; but I think the snow was a good thing. And I would love to hang out with you guys tonight."

"Quennie, that's the most intelligent thing that's come out of your mouth all day, and so many words too.  School is really working for you. You get a gold star!"

Jake shot his sister the finger.

Tara chuckled. "Seriously, I know what you mean, though.  It's like today is kinda like our lives concentrated at least as they are now."

"Makes sense. So, R'Place it is.  Me and Jake will dig out Red's car."

"Why can't we just take yours?"

"Well just in case one of us wants to leave early for some reason or another," Shannon answered.

Tara gave her friend a confused look.

"You know."  He widened his eyes.

"For goodness sakes! He means in case we get some ass."  Jake threw his hands up and shouted.

-----

Tara stepped out of the shower and smoothed her hair back.

"My God, you look even better wet!  Have I told you that?"

Tara smirked, "Yesss. Now, no touchy or we'll never get out of here."

Gabrielle sauntered forward intent on at least getting a hug maybe a little kiss. "Not just a little one?"  She pouted.

"Noo!"  Tara shooed her away. "You're bad! Little one's turn into really big ones and before you know it my tongue--"

"Shut up...just shut up right now."  The writer sucked in a needed breath as her stomach fluttered.

They stopped and stared at each other. The air was charged around them.

"Um...clothes...I'm gonna--" Tara licked her lips and lost her mind.  Her nipples tingled and her skin was on fire.

Gabrielle nodded and had to tear her gaze away. "Yeah, you do that."

Tara buttoned her jeans then proceeded to do the same with the khaki colored shirt. She smiled as she felt arms engulf her from behind.  "Cooled off?"

Gabrielle sighed, "Not really but its manageable. The shower helped." She stepped away from the mechanic.  "Just let me blow dry, get make up on and get dressed. I'll be ready to go."

Tara peered at her lover as she walked toward the closet.  "Looks good on you too?"

"What?"

"Water."

Gabrielle groaned, "Don't start!"

Laughter followed.

----

They parked outside the non descript building and met at the entrance.

"Looks like you guys were right. This place is packed," Gabrielle commented as she scanned the gravel parking lot filled with vehicles.

"Told you. Cabin fever. Let's go in. It's freezing!" Jake said.

The door opened to a new world.  The warmth greeted them along with laughter and loud music.  People surrounded the bar, filled the small tables; and crowded around the pool tables.

"Somebody play some Cher!"  A patron screamed rather loudly.

"That's fag music!"  Someone answered followed by rounds of chuckles.

Tara smiled as she leaned down toward her lover.  "Wanna drink?"  She whispered loudly in her ear.

Gabrielle nodded, "Something sweet.  Don't forget to get the boys a bitch beer."

The mechanic grinned in response as she watched her posse make their way upstairs.  The brunette elbowed her way closer to the bar. She made eye contact with  the bartender and crooked her finger to give her order. Vince winked and smiled in return as he pushed the drinks toward her.

Someone squealed behind her.  She turned hoping the find the location of the disturbing noise. 

"Teeeee--"  It seemed to go on and on. Tara rolled her eyes.

"Where have you been hiding yourself, girl?"  A tall, willowy black man asked.

The brunette turned around completely and leaned against the bar.  "I've been around just not here."

"Mmm hmm, everything all better?  I'm not stupid, you know word gets around."

Tara cringed on the inside. I forgot how small and unhealthy the gay community can be.  "Yep, all better.  I've missed hanging out with all you ladies. Are you in the show tonight?"

"We miss you too, girl even with your fine ass brother around."  He leaned in. "Look, I wasn't saying that to be nosey.  I've known you for a long time and I want you to be okay, hear?"  He looked her straight in the eye conveying his seriousness.

Tara gave him a sincere grin, "I know Jamie."

His face transformed as he gave her a dazzling smile.  "Good girl."  He patter her cheek.  "I'll keep you in mind during the show."

Tara groaned.

Jamie cackled.

----

Tara navigated the stairs effortlessly despite have her hands full.  She squinted through the strobbing lights until she saw familiar faces.  The mechanic made her way over and dispensed the drinks.

She sat down and glanced around at her surroundings, "It's looks the same."  The music was present but faint no more than background noise at the moment, giving them the chance to conversate in semi-normal tones.

"It's not like it's been years since you've been here," Shannon muttered.

"I know, but it feels different."

"Oh God, she's about to get corny.  You should've brought me another drink if you were going to do that."  Jake submitted with a fake pained expression.

"Shut up ass!"  Tara popped her brother in the back of the head.

"Yeah, I know what you mean."  Gabrielle chimed in.

Tara ignored her brother and leaned in close to her lover. "What do you think it is?"

The writer shrugged, "Don't know exactly. Could be because we started new on everything."

Tara nodded reasonably satisfied.  "Could be." She smirked at the blonde who leaned in for a kiss.

Shannon and Jake covered their eyes, "Here they go again."

Both men received a slap to the back of the head.

They all moved closer to each other as conversation went on.  No one saw the woman approaching. When she made it to her target, she wrapped her arms around the mechanic's neck and squished her cleavage into the back of Tara's head. "I saw you kissing her."  She waved her hand in the writer's direction, "But I didn't think it looked zeriousss. So, I dezided to come over.  Maybe we could pick up where we left off?"  The blond woman slurred most of her words and reeked of alcohol.

Tara froze. Fear was the first emotion that pummeled her then anger and shame.  Not now. Not today in front of everybody. She doesn't need this.  We don't need this.  She knocked the woman's hands away vehemently and looked across the table to her friend and brother. Their expressions were a mixture of panic and disbelief.  The breath rattled in the brunette's chest as she was compelled to glance at her lover.  Gabrielle's face was white and Tara knew she had to act quickly.  Her instinct was to snarl at the woman but she knew this would only make a scene.  Instead, she took a second to think. The mechanic leaned toward the writer. "I'll take care of this."

Tara peered at the woman who looked back at her expectantly.  In as clear and calm a voice as she could muster, Tara replied, "What you just did was disrespectful as hell. Not only is my partner sitting here but so is my family.  I'm sorry,"  She shook her head. "I'm not into quick fucks.  I didn't mean to give you that impression."

As if there were cotton wool in her ears the blond woman added, "Well, it doesn't have to be quick."

Tara's eyes widened incredulously, then she began to chuckle. "I'm trying not to hurt your feelings.  I don't even remember your name or what you felt like."  The brunette crooked her finger, bidding the woman closer.  She pointed at the writer. "You see her? That's what I'm into.  I remember every touch, every kiss and every taste. You're nothing to me, and I don't want you to feel like you ARE nothing.  Do you understand?"

The woman grinned sloppily. "So what you're saying is that you don't wanna fuck?"

Tara nearly screamed as her temper snapped.  "Look, you stu-"

Watching the proceedings as if she were in a tennis match, Gabrielle recognized the signs of the impending explosion. She jumped up and in front of the brunette.  "Perhaps she needed to speak slower for you. Let me help. It ...was....a...mistake.  She...doesn't...want...you."

"Well damn. No need to get nasty. Why didn't she say s-so in the first place? I wasted ten minutes."  The woman threw her hair over her shoulder and walked away.

Gabrielle was the first to sit down. Even though she was irritated by the whole scene, she bubbled with pride.  Her insides felt warm and glowy. I think that I was prepared for that. This town is too small. I knew it would happen sooner or later.  She took a breath, digging deeper and searching her feelings for resentment and anger.  They were there but it was only a dull throb.

Tara touched the blonde to get her attention.  The brunette's expression was guarded. "I didn't mean for that to be thrown in your face.  I'm sorry."

Gabrielle reached for the mechanic's hand and clutched it in her own.  "I'm only human. Some part of me wanted to punch her and maybe scratch her eyes out.  Some part of me wanted to punch you too, but it was a really small part."  The blond scanned the room expecting to see may eyes zeroed in on them. There were a few but it was to be expected.  They wanted a show then she was going to give them one of a different kind.  In an unexpected move, Gabrielle brought the mechanic's hand to her mouth for a kiss and then did the same with her lips. Let them think what they want.   "I love you and I'm stronger than that."  The blond felt some of the tension leave her lover's body.

Blue eyes twinkled in relief and affection. I don't know what I did to deserve her, but damn if I'm not going to keep her.  "We can leave if you want?  I'll understand-"

"I know you do. You'll understand too if I say let's stay. Fuck them all. We're around the people who count.  Let's have a good time."

Tara's eyes widened and unable to help herself, she smirked.  "You sure that you're okay?"

"Trust me. I'm fine.  I'm over it and she's not worth it."

Hearing the last part because he was shamelessly eavesdropping,  "Here! Here!" Jake added.

Shannon took it upon himself to smack the other man in the back of the head.

"What?!"

"Well, that wasn't that interesting.  I was expecting--"  Shannon stated.

"What?  For me to get up and snatch the hair from her head?"

Shannon put a finger to his lips as if he were contemplating. "Now, that would have been special.  Add some mud and we could have made some money tonight right along with the queens.  I'm betting that you fight dirty and would have had her beat hands down."

"You think?"

Three heads nodded.

Gabrielle let out a delighted laugh.  "I love the confidence you guys have in me."  The writer brought her drink to her lips and drained the remains of it.  "I'm going to go get another drink.  Anybody want?"

"You sure you want to go down there?  Maybe we should send one of the boys--"  Tara asked concerned.

The blond waved in nonchalance. "I'm sure it's fine.  I bet she's long gone."

"Alright then."

Jake and Tara place their orders.

As Gabrielle stepped into the area, eyes peered at her then turned away.  She pushed her way toward the bar itself and wiggled into a tiny space in between two men and placed her order.

A tap on the shoulder made the writer glance in that direction. Astonishment struck her immediately. The blond woman from earlier looked back at her expectantly. Gabrielle turned and raised a brow.  She grumbled internally. Maybe we'll make some money after all.  I don't need this too!  "Yess?"

"Let's see if you're so s-smart without your entrage bitch.  I'm not stupid and I don't aprimate you and your girlfriend talking to me like that."

The other brow rose, "Come again?"  It had become somewhat silent around them.

"You heard me!"

Gabrielle bit her lip to keep from laughing, knowing that would not be the right thing to do.  She suddenly felt sorry for the woman. "Look, can't we just let this all go?"

"No!"

Gabrielle groaned as someone put on "Another One Bites' the Dust."   The writer was resigned, knowing this was going to end badly.  "Okay, do what you need to do."

"Huh?"  The woman asked, confused.

"Do I look like the type to engage in bar fights?"

"I don't care what you gage in?!"  She slurred.

The writer pressed her lips together tightly.  "Uh huh, let's just get this over with."

"That's it bitch!"  The woman flailed about as if she were having a seizure. Then, she charged.

Gabrielle quickly moved out of the way and watched in tragic awe as the woman tripped, fell forward and hit her head on the bar, knocking herself cold. There was complete silence around her. The writer glanced at the bartender, who shrugged.  Then she peered around the bar as the patrons watched and laughed. The man next to her commented, "Damndest thing I've ever seen.  You're magic lady. Knocking somebody out without even landing a punch."

Gabrielle let out a nervous chuckle.  "Um thanks, I think."  She kneeled down to check on the woman, hoping her injuries were not life threatening.  The other blond groaned when the writer touched her shoulder. "Is there a doctor or nurse down here?"

Another man stepped forward. "I'll take care of her don't worry about it. I can't believe I sat back and watched this happen. She gets herself in the biggest messes."

"What about the police or an ambulance?"

"I'm a nurse lady and so is she. It's fine. She's so fucked up that she probably won't even remember any of this.  Everyone saw how it went down.  You don't have anything to worry about."

"Are you sure?"

The man bent down to help his friend up. "Yeah, go ahead and get your drinks. They're on me. I'm sorry she dragged you into this."

Green eyes widened in surprise.

"Weird things happen to you a lot, lady?"  The same man at the bar asked.

Gabrielle shrugged. "I don't know maybe just a little bit?"  She brought her thumb and forefinger together.  Without waiting for further comment, the writer grabbed the drinks and headed back upstairs, knowing it was time to get out of the spotlight.  She took a big gulp out of each libation and tried to plant a smile on her face. They are either going to freak out or laugh in my face.

As she plopped back down next to the mechanic, Gabrielle placed the drinks on the table.

"What happened to the drinks?"  The brunette asked.

"I swear I didn't touch her!"

Tara froze for the second time that night. "Wha-what?"

"I didn't touch her. She came after me. I moved out of the way and she fell and hit her head. There are witnesses. Practically everyone downstairs can testify to it!"  Green eyes were wide and somewhat frantic.

Shannon looked at Jake then they both turned toward the writer.

"Whoa, Red," Jake murmured.

Shannon snorted.

Jake sniffed and pressed trembling lips together.

"Does she still have hair?" Tara inquired, feeling the mirth latch onto her as well.

Shannon's snort turned into a loud, hiccupping laugh.

"I never knew..." Tara paused to catch her breath.  "...that you were so butch, Red."

The table howled.

"This is serious!  I knew you guys were going to do this!"

Jake laid his head down on the table as his body shook. "We...can't take you anywhere."

Gabrielle threw up her hands. "Fine!" 

Tara wrapped an arm around the blond and continued to chuckle in her ear. "I'm glad you're okay. If she had touched you, I'd rip her hair out of her head. But-"  Tara's chuckles turned back into hearty laughs. "You know it's funny.  You know it is. Think about it."

The writer sighed in mock exasperation.  A slow smirk stole over her features.  "Yeah, yeah."  She rolled her eyes.  "I don't think the night could get anymore--"

"Don't say it!"  Jake and Shannon exclaimed almost simultaneously.

"Sor-ry, but really, what could happen?"

Both men groaned.

-----

The crowd continued to hoot and clap as the queens took their final bow.

Gabrielle shook with laughter and the expression on the mechanic's face did not help matters any.  It was a cross between disgust, chagrin, and disbelief.  The blond hooked her arm around her lover's.  "Come on.  You know it's funny. You know it is. Think about it."

Blue eyes squinted.  "Uh huh, next time I'll tell Jamie to dry hump your leg."  Tara cringed. "I feel so dirty."

Jake muttered between guffaws. "Maybe he thought you were me, in drag."

The table erupted again.

"Oh come on, T.  We had a good time considering all the drama," the writer added when they had all calmed down.

"Oh, I know. Gotta love snow days."

They watched as most of the patrons got up to leave.

"I'm gonna get out of here too guys," Shannon muttered as he yawned.  "I'll be over for breakfast more than likely. So please everyone be dressed."  He looked pointedly at Tara. "Thanks for tonight I needed it."  He nudged the taller man's shoulder.  "You want a ride back to your place?  Let's leave these two alone."

"I'm coming."  Jake got up and pointed at his sister. "But I'm sleeping in your bed. It's much more comfortable."

"Fine as long as that's all you do in it." She looked from Shannon to Jake.

"Eww, never happen. Not my type."

"You got that right,"  Jake added.

----

Gabrielle pulled slowly into her driveway.  She glanced at her lover, thinking her asleep.  Blue eyes smiled at her.  "I thought you were sleeping. You were so quiet."

"Na, I was just watching you."

The writer smiled as she turned off the ignition. "Mmm hmm."

"I know it seems like ages ago now, but what does this night feel like to you?"

"What do you mean?  I know it's a starting over point for us--"

"No, I think we're where we wanna be.  It kinda feels to me like we've come full circle or something."

"Ah, I see.  I think I understand."  The blonde paused.  "Remember being in this car the first time?"

Tara's grin was slow and sexy. "How could I forget."

"It has been a total 360." Gabrielle restarted the car.

"Yes, it has.  What are you doing?"

"We need some heat. I don't think we generate THAT much between us."

"You are bad."

"I know. You've rubbed off on me."

"I almost didn't come that night we met. Jake begged me and I gave in. God, I'm glad I did."

"Me too. I don't think you have any idea. You changed my life that night in more ways than one."

Their gazes met. Silence lapsed between them and the air hummed with electricity. Without a word, without pause, and in an almost perfect simulation of a time that seemed like eons ago, Tara reached for her lover pulling her into her lap. Lips met with moist certainty, reveling in the moment and in the memories. Hands followed the same path and whispered moans filled the car.  Ignoring the cold and the ice reforming around them, they became lost in each other.

I hope I did these ladies justice. It's been a long time since I wrote on them. Let me know what you think good or bad at Minerva