Violence: no

Sex: Finally! And it is graphic. This is waaaay beyond NC17. Same sex couple. So if this is not a legal thing where you are, or you are under age. Sorry, but you gotta go!!

Spoilers: Yep, yeah and uh huh! Mostly Season 3

Any comments send to UgoXena@aol.com. I love feedback!

kg©1999

Part 5

Taylor joined the rest of the women in the living room. They all looked up expectantly when she walked in.

Answering their unasked question, she shrugged, "I don't know."

"Kae, deah. I think you can go home now. You've caused quite enough trouble for one day."

"That's an understatement. But, she did it herself. Huh, Miss Selfish?"

"Thanks for reminding me, KaeLynn. My fault. GO home, you're a bad influence on me."

"Right, see you. Night Jan, Mel. Love you."

"Good night dear. We love you, too."

"We do?"

"Yes, Jan, we do."

"O.K. Love you, too."

"What happened out there? We heard yelling, but figured if you needed help or an ambulance, you'd call."

"She's pissed. I can't say as I blame her at all. Whether she'll forgive me or not is a guessing game."

"I forgive you." All heads turned in her direction. "On one condition. Well, two really."

"Anything."

"First, don't you ever do anything like this again or I will kill you and hunt the other bit.....uh other woman down. Got it?"

"Got it. And second?"

"Forgive me?"

"But...."

"Taylor, you just best say yes. She's letting you off easy." Mel stared at her with a very serious look in her bright blue eyes.

"Yes." She stood and walked to face Candace. "May, I?"

"May you what?" Candace looked up at her a trace of anger and disappointment still in her eyes.

Her voice was little more than a whisper, "Hold you, kiss you.....love you." She was desperate to regain this woman's trust.

"Hum. You can hold me. I'm not feeling too keen on the kiss thing."

"I'll take it. It's a start." Taylor felt small arms encircle her waist and she knew these were the arms that had been meant to hold her for a lifetime. She bent down and placed her long arms as far around Candace as they would go.

Janice and Melinda stood to exit the room so as to afford the two women the privacy they knew was necessary at the moment. They nodded at Taylor and she mouthed a 'Thank you' to them.

The small woman let Taylor hold her and tears sprang to her eyes. She could no longer hold in the pain she had been feeling most of the day. They started as a small stream and graduated into sobs directed into Taylor's chest. Her legs gave way and strong arms swept her up to safety. Her tears and sobs continued to come as if there were no end to them. She buried her head in to the firefighter's neck. Taylor whispered apologies in her ear. "I'm so sorry. I love you. Please don't cry." She kissed wet cheeks and a smooth forehead, praying that Candace could truly be able to forgive her. Her own tears combined with the blonde's, to fall soundlessly to the floor.

Green swollen eyes opened to look into the deep blue sea of emotion. The tears she saw touched her heart. Her small hand traced the path of wetness and she wiped them away. "No, don't cry, Taylor. It's O.K."

Through tears and grief she spoke, "NO! No. No. It's not O.K. If I could take this back....Please. God, I am so sorry." Her head bent to Candace's shoulder wanting to erase the memories that shook her mind.

Candace reached her up to caress Taylor's face in her hand. "Tay, look at me."

Taylor turned her sapphire eyes to face Candace. "It's going to be fine. I promise." She pulled Taylor to her and placed her soft lips close to Taylor's as if seeking permission. Taylor didn't move. The singer kissed Taylor softly at first. Her desire was to show this woman that she did need her and that she was willing to move on.

Taylor didn't move when Candace moved close to her. She didn't deserve this forgivness. Soft lips touched hers and she didn't know what to do. Candace pressed in and she released her apprehension, and let herself be kissed. A sweet tongue swept across her lips and she surrendered. Their mouths melded together and her soul celebrated the experience. This was where she belonged and yes, she would wait. She knew now with a surety that she could not be whole anywhere else.

Taylor was anxious when their lips touched but Candace pressed on. The stroke of her tongue brought the walls of Taylor's fear down and she poured all she could into the connection. It wasn't all she was capable of but, it was what she had to give.

The priceless kiss ended and Taylor pulled the woman she loved into a fierce hug. "Please, don't leave me. I don't want you to hurt anymore. Forgive me."

"Taylor, I'm not going anywhere. I am partially to blame here." Taylor looked at her to argue the point. "No, sweetheart, I am. If I had been able to let you see what is going on in me it would have been easier for you. But, I couldn't. It was easier for me to shut you out. If I close the door, what can I expect? I don't think you would stand there and knock forever. I would never ask that of you. I am sorry." She kissed Taylor's lips again. "Now, set me down and so I can go wash my face."

The tall firefighter set Candace gently on her feet. "I'm going to the kitchen to forage for food. That is an invitation if you would care to join me."

"I haven't had anything to eat today so that sounds good." Her appetite had melted away earlier in the afternoon. It took alot to cause her to lose her hunger, but she had been too busy being sick to eat. She left the tall woman standing in the living room.

Taylor watched her walk away. Her heart went with her. She plucked a few tissues out of the box she had found and blew her nose. *Crying is such a messy thing and I have cried more in the past two weeks than I have in the past five years combined. Love stinks!* She wiped her eyes and headed to the kitchen.

She found Mel and Janice in the kitchen talking quietly over steaming cups of tea. They both looked up at her concerned.

"I think it's going to be alright. We had a good cry and good talk."

Mel walked to her twin and put a loving arm around her, "I am so happy, Taylah. You two belong together. She just hasn't gotten there yet."

"I know. I know. Is there food in this house? Candace hasn't eaten and I think she may be hungry."

Jan smiled, "And you know what that means."

"Know what what means?" She was getting good at coming the room at just the right time.

"Taylor here says you're hungry. I'm not sure we have enough food in the house for a hungry Candace. Same thing happens when I'm hungry. What say we go out?"

Candace and Taylor looked at each other. Taylor shrugged and left it up to Candace.

"You better take us somewhere cheap or I'll bankrupt you."

They all had a good laugh and much of the tension that had been lingering in the air dissipated.

Melinda noted sometime during the evening, that Candace's attitude toward Taylor had changed. She never let the tall woman out of reach, and the looks shared between the two women, was more intimate than before. Soft touches came frequently and lingered long moments. *Maybe this WAS a good thing. Eyes get opened by force sometimes.*

"Mel?"

"Sorry. What did you say?"

"Where'd you go? Never mind. I said I had the scroll translated if you ladies care to hear it when we get back to the house."

"You finished? Why didn't you say so earlier?"

"Honey, considering the circumstances, I thought it prudent to wait."

Not wishing to bring up painful thoughts Mel merely nodded, "You're right dear. Well, ladies, are you ready to hear what Gabrielle has to say?"

Taylor turned to be captured in a symphony of green. It took a great deal of effort not to kiss her right then. Gathering her wits from the atmosphere where they had been scattered, she spoke, "Well, Candace. Are you ready?"

 "Jan, may I ask if there are any......answers in it."

"You can ask but I'm not going to give away any secrets, but I think you will all find the contents quite... interesting."

"You're mean, Jan."

"I'm not mean, sweetheart. I just love surprises." She wiggled both her eyebrows and grinned.

"Why I love you I will nevah know."

"You love me cause I'm cute and 'ornrey."

"Oh, yes. How could I have forgotten?"

=/~~~~~~~~~~>

The four women gathered in the study. Jan had them sit and moved to her desk to retrieve the papers that the translation was written upon. She walked slowly back to the group and gazed around the group. The moments were agonizing.

"Janice Covington, will you please!"

The good doctor laughed at her lover. "How impatient, Professor." Mel threatened her with a look and Jan nodded. "Alright. Alright. Ready? Here goes......"

"WAIT!"

Janice about jumped out of her skin along with the rest of the women in the room.

"Candace, you have something to say?"

The doctor got no reply from her younger twin. They watched her as she stood to her feet and walked across the library. Stopping in front of a long thin display case hung on the wall, she stared at the contents.

"Candace, deah. Ah you alright?" Mel looked to her partner who shrugged and joined Candace at the case.

"Candace? Helloooo. You in there?"

"This staff. It's mine."

Janice frowned and cast a glance at her wife. Mel stood to her feet and walked over to Candace. She placed a soft hand around her shoulder. "Would you care to explain how this could possibly be yours? We found it with many of Xena's belongings. It is very well preserved. Somehow it was petrified before the wood decayed. Odd."

"Remember the injury to my leg? Well, for months after I couldn't walk without a cane. On the day we, Xena and I, were joined Ephiny gave that to me so I would have something nice to walk down the 'aisle' with."

"But this is the staff of a regent. See the markings?"

"I was regent."

"YOU? How in the hell do you figure that?"

"JAN!"

"Sorry. It's such a story though. I'm having a hard time believing it."

"Trésha gave me right of caste when she died. I became Regent. See these markings here? Those are for bravery in battle, specifically for saving the life of the queen."

"Why did you leave that out of your story?" 

"I didn't think it was important. Ephiny was queen and ruler. My position didn't matter." 

"That is hardly the case young lady, but we will argue it later." Mel was surprised at the modesty of the young woman.

"Huh! Guess it is yours," Janice conceded.

"I only had it for a day. So, it's not really."

"Yes, Candace it is. Look ladies let's talk about this later. I have a scroll to read." Janice determined that one day the staff would one day hang in Candace's house

The women settled back to their seats and Janice began again.

"This scroll is blessed and protected by the goddess Artemis.

Woe to any who break the seal before the appointed time. It is to be passed from this generation to every third. When the one who holds the scroll and the hero that comes to claim it meet, it will unite the souls destined to be one. The necklace belongs to them both.

~A~

My Dear Sister,

Artemis promised to get this scroll to you. I have to trust that she will. It is my understanding that this scroll will be passed down through the generations of Xena's

descendants. Humm. Interesting as we have no children yet.

I guess we are going to.

As you would say..Cool! Now, on to more important things:

No words that I can find are eloquent enough to express to you the

depth of my gratitude to you. I oft times wonder if I did the right thing

or was I being selfish. I know that you were promised a place with me when

all of this was over. That you and I would become one. Well...technically

you (are) were. I am going to tell you the whole of all that went on with the gods

and the rules of the challenge; For it was a challenge. You know most of it and

the rest I didn't even know myself.

Where to begin? How does the beginning sound?

I plead my case before the council. It was determined that I

had indeed met an untimely demise. Ares wanted me to remain dead as did Hera

and a few of the others. Artemis, of course,

wanted me to return as I was her chosen.

Aphrodite and Cupid wanted me to return as well. After all, ours (mine and Xena's)

was the love of an eternity.

It was decided with great debate, that I could return under certain conditions.

I couldn't go back as myself and Xena couldn't know who I was.

Aphrodite was certain that Xena would be drawn to whomever

I chose as long as her

soulmate, I, was present. It was her contention that soulmates are drawn

together no matter what the shell may be. Zeus approved the contest.

I had to find someone willing to return with me

and have Xena fall in love with her

and her with Xena. Xena then had to figure

out that I was present and be willing to

overcome preset obstacles to be with me/us.

Proof would then be made and I could return

as myself. If we failed I would be very dead and you and Xena would be on your own.

I was assured that, should I succeed, you and I would become one and

you would be with Xena as well as I, as one.

I know it may not seem like that is what happened but in a very twisted

reality (Spell that Aphrodite) it is. It seems that you and I were one to begin with.

This is what the Gods are calling paradox.

Artemis and Aphrodite had proven their

theory and were allowed to do with the situation as they pleased.

Well, being the smart sneaky girls Gods they are, they had stacked the deck, so to speak.

You are what Aph called a 'soul fragment'. Now listen carefully, when you

were sent back, Artemis took a portion of each of Xena's and my

soul and 'fragmented' it. Each piece of

that part of us runs up and down the time line and will for eternity.

The power of our love continues to flourish even when we

are long gone from this life. When I found you, you were already

a part of me. You couldn't become one with me because you already were me. I know all of

this doesn't make sense. In my time the fragments didn't exist. In your time they did.

Some how I found you not knowing you were a part of me already.

The two of us were no match for Ares and his bunch.

Smart Goddesses those two. Yes, you are separate.

Yes, you are you. Don't think because I say "fragment" that the

piece is small. It's a full soul grown from the same essence. It's like DNA.. You can make the same person , but the BEING is different. The same and yet not the same.

It's like having children I think. That is why you and

Xena were not an exact match. But you have been given a wonderful gift.

I was promised by both Gods that our soul fragments,

where-ever and when-ever

would always have the chance to be together. Somewhere in your time, there is that

fragment of Xena that is searching for you. That person may not be Xena,

but she is your exact match. When you find her you will know.

Open your heart and don't be afraid to love again, Candace.

I swear it will be worth it.

I am sorry for pain I am sure that this has caused you.

Rest assured that it was not on purpose.

Now for the gushy stuff.

I miss you horribly! I know that sounds strange. Missing some-one you didn't ever really

see, but I call you my friend. You made a sacrifice for me, for us, that I can't repay.

We were closer than any two people could be and so I miss you.

Xena misses you, too. She would die if she knew I was telling you this.

I know she loves me with all of her being. Love is not the issue here,

She doesn't allow many to break

through that tough exterior to see the truth of her heart..

You invited yourself in and made a yourself at home. You did her a world of good.

I know all that you knew and can do the things you did, but I am not you. My

words are not yours. She misses the hard time you gave her and your voice.

No doubt you can sing!

Ephiny misses you. Hades! The whole camp moped for days, weeks even.

You made quite an impression during the

short time you were here.

Eph was right you know. I chose well. Very well indeed

Too well if you ask me. (that's a joke!)

Someday I will tell your story! For now I keep thoughts of you

in my heart and thank-you from the bottom of it.

So you know, Toris and Amira had a girl.

They named her Candace. I think it was fitting.

Mother and Delmar are to be joined this coming Solstice.

Think of us! We can hear you!

I'll see you in Elisya, until then peace and love to you!

~Gabrielle 2

Queen of the Amazons~

The doctor stopped reading and gave those hearing the reading time to absorb all that they had learned. Some of what was said was difficult to comprehend but not impossible. While the professor and her mate were contemplating the logical side of the scroll, the other two women were contemplating the emotional aspect of it. Candace now had the answers she had been seeking. She couldn't have stayed with Xena because she was the key to hundreds maybe thousands of reunited souls. Perhaps that number included her own. Melinda and Janice finally understood how it was that they could bare such close resemblance to Xena and Gabrielle and share the same connection of soul that their ancestors had. Taylor now understood why she had waited years to find the "Right One". Her very soul would have allowed her to do no less. She saw Gabrielle because some part of her soul knew the bard. Things were beginning to make sense to all of them.

"I hate to break up this little contemplative session we seem to have going on here, but there is more." Dr. Covington hadn't inform the group of her other discovery on purpose. This was going to be fun.

"It seems that the Lion of Amphipolis has a few words for you as well, Candace."

"Xena?"

"None other."

"Can you give me a minute. I think I want to get some fresh air." Candace needed some time to absorb all of the new information. *Everything that I am you are.* The words echoed in her head as she stepped from the room. *Finally, answers!*

"Sure this can wait." Janice knew the mind of the small blonde woman as she knew her own. Information was bouncing around in her head and it would take a moment to file all of it in the appropriate places. She needed to collect her thoughts as well as her emotions.

Candace excused her self and stepped out of the room. Taylor stood, unsure as to whether or not to follow her. Her older look-a-like placed a soft hand of restraint on her arm. "Tayla. She needs to be alone for a bit. It's O.K., honey. She just found out who you ah. Give it minute to sink in."

"Do you really think she knows?" There was desperation in the younger woman's voice.

"Of course she does. She's stubborn, not stupid." Janice replied before her partner could. She recalled a time in the past when she herself had been the stubborn one. Melinda understood the doctor's reference and smiled at her lover.

It wasn't more that ten minutes before Candace returned to the office. "I'm ready."

The doctor looked to all the others to assure that they were ready. She received approving nods and began, "Right. Here we go."

Candace,

~You know that I'm am not as good with the written word (or spoken for that matter) as My Beloved Gabrielle, but I will do my best.

I can never begin to express my gratitude to you. The more I come to realize

the magnitude of the sacrifice you made for me, for US,

the more I know how could have loved you.

Don't misunderstand. I love Gabrielle endlessly.

She is my very soul and in her I am complete. But you, Candace, gave me back my heart. For that I will be forever grateful. My feelings for you were as real as any.

Never doubt that.

But you have so much more to look forward to.

Artemis and Aphrodite promised that you would find peace with the

other half of your soul. Mine belongs to the bard and hers to me There is no greater reward in life than to become one or reunited with that missing piece.

So, if you ever meet up with a certain someone who wants nothing more than to spend their life holding you close, search that heart. You just might find me there. When you do find that one, cherish them Candace, because when you do you will have come home.

Take care little one, for I love you dearly. My love. My sister. My friend.

I thank you!

"Taylor, I think you may want to pay attention to the last part." The archeologist looked at the tall woman with bright knowing eyes. She had been listening intently before but the tone in the doctor's voice made Taylor sit up and pay rapt attention.

~To the one who claims the soul of this woman. Trust your heart. Give to her all

that is yours to give. She is a treasure beyond price. Never let the walls of pride stand

in the way of what you know to be true. Be patient.

When she takes you, you will know that there will never be another.

I commission you to protect and love her. Not that she needs protection for she is strong and well able to fend for herself.

But, I would that you cover her heart with your own so that the

ills of the world do not tarnish the

purity of her joy.

"I think she's got the wrong girl there." Candace was almost embarrassed by the words laid to paper by the Warrior Princess on her behalf. "Shh." The good Dr. wasn't finished.

~Take great care of each other and never let a day pass that you don't share the love

that is in your hearts. This way there will never be any regrets.

Anger may try to

blind you and pride may try to stop you, but

YOU have the control over these

distractions. USE IT!

Love each other often and with great passion. You have been

given a priceless gift from the gods. Hold it and each other dear.

~XENA~\

"Good God! Marriage advice from the Warrior princess. Hell, I don't know whether to laugh or be impressed." Janice was amused and amazed at the same time.

"I think it's positively romantic." Melinda was practically gushing. "Well, Taylor?"

"Well what?"

"Do you claim the heart and soul of said priceless woman?" There was a definite glimmer in the eyes of the Professor.

Taylor looked over at Candace. Not really sure what to do next she stood up and turned to the woman she knew she could never begin to live without. Bending down on one knee she gazed into emerald eyes now opened by many revelations. Those eyes shone with fire and passion the firefighter knew she would never want to extinguish. Into her hands she took the one good hand she could. Tears began to form in blue eyes as she tried to speak. When she found her voice, she said the only thing she could, "Candace. My heart. My soul. Please... say yes."

Candace finally allowed the walls of her defense to drop for the first time since she had returned from the Amazons. What she felt when she did, threatened to overwhelm her. Her soul sensed Taylor and she felt the connection that they shared. It was so different from the one that had existed between her and Xena. This feeling fulfilled her destiny and tears welled up in her eyes as well. One slid down a fair skinned cheek as she answered with a whisper, "Yes."

Taylor stood and swept the blonde woman into a fierce hug and then up into her arms, cradling her there. It seemed an eternity passed before lips became entwined and souls touched as they had over generations. This time the kiss was with a full and completed understanding of who they were. Soon they would discover the true depths of what that meant.

Janice and Melinda smiled at each other and nodded. They understood. "Uh, if y'all will excuse us."

"Mel, I don't think they can hear you. Let's go" Janice clasped the hand of her soulmate and led her up the stairs. The two older woman still knew the passion that the two younger ones were soon to share and made their way to the room where they would again remind themselves of it. The night was going to be filled with the rapture granted to all of them by Bard and Warrior.

Never breaking the kiss, Taylor sat back down on the couch holding her precious cargo in her arms. The passionate kiss slowed to an intimate tasting of one another. Light caresses of tongues dancing in a gentle rhythms. Candace slowly pulled away from the sweet contact. Taylor moaned at the loss and opened her eyes only to be swept away in a sea of green full of desire only for her. Candace leaned into her warrior and whispered into her neck between soft kisses. "Can... we.... go.. up... to your room?" Taylor shivered in response to the words and the warm lips that pressed into her flesh. Lips smiled against her neck. "I'll take that as a yes." The smaller woman started to get up and was tenderly restrained by very strong arms. In answer to the questioning glance she received Taylor stood to her feet and carried her angel to their destiny.

It seemed that some unknown elves had made their way to Taylor's room before the two women had arrived. There were candles glowing softly all about the room and music was wafting through the air filling it. Taylor kicked off her shoes and carried Candace to the bed and gently laid her on the soft comforter. Green eyes peered up at her through half opened slits. Taylor again fell to one knee before the precious woman that had stolen the heart that had belonged to her since time began. Candace sat up and peered intently into her lovers face. There was a deep look of concern across the brunette's brow and Candace felt a pang of fear in the pit of her stomach.

"Tay? What's wrong?"

"Candace I want you to hear me." Taylor was completely serious.

"Of course. What has you so concerned?" Candace placed a gentle hand on Taylor's cheek. The blonde woman had an idea what her firefighter had to say but needed to let her speak her heart.

Taylor removed the hand from her face and held it in hers like a priceless gem. "I want you to understand something. I have known for a long time with all of my being that YOU were out there somewhere. I have lived so long on my own that I never thought that I would ever need anyone. I need you. You are the completion of all that I am. I know this as the sun crosses the sky each day. I know it sounds trite now, but ever since I came to that realization, I have saved myself for you, for this moment. After this there will never be another. What we share this night is for you and you alone. I commit all that I am to you for now and for all time to come."

Candace took a short moment to absorb the gravity of what Taylor had shared with her. She took a deep breath and told her dark haired lover the truth in her heart. "Taylor, I couldn't have dreamt that I would find a more perfect love than the one I had. I could never have hoped to be complete again. Not only am I complete but I am fulfilled in you. You ARE the more perfect love. There is no other, nor will there ever be. I surrender all that I am and all that I ever hope to be to you. Be gentle and kind and it will, in turn, be a gift to you."

The firefighter couldn't believe the words she was hearing. She sat in stunned silence unable to move.

"Excuse me...uh..Taylor?"

"Hum?"

"Now would be a good time to make love to me."

The tall woman blushed deeply and stood to her feet. In the periphery of her vision she saw that there had been a bath drawn in addition to the soft candlelight. "I know how difficult it is for you to get in the bath with the cast on but do you think we could work around that?"

"I think I can work something out." The blonde smiled sweetly at her soulmate.

Taylor held a hand out to Candace and led her to the bath. She reached out trembling hands to the buttons of the blonde's shirt. Her hands were soon covered by smaller ones that steadied them through the motions of releasing the fasteners from their holding. One by one they released the hold on silken fabric. The shirt fell open as the barrier was breached. With wonder in her eyes Taylor pushed the shirt off well-defined shoulders, her finger tips barely brushing soft skin as it fell to the floor. She wasn't sure if she could take the next step. Gathering her courage she let curious fingers make a trail up a very soft but firm stomach. Those fingers soon discovered lacy fabric fastened in the front. Taylor's hands lightly traced over the fabric feeling the skin beneath harden at her touch. The smaller woman let her instincts take over and without thought leaned into the touch making herself moan at the pressure. Taylor's fingers found the clasp and her hands hesitated where her mind did not. She gazed at the goddess before her, asking permission with her eyes. In response Candace raised a gentle hand to Taylor's wrist, guiding her fingers to the hook that held the bra in place. Taking courage from the prompting, she unhooked the hasp and pulled the cups off to the side. Presented to her were two of the most delectable breasts she had ever seen. Candace's hand was still on her wrist and she was guided to tender flesh by sweet persuasion. Taylor closed her eyes and felt the softness of the skin under her hands. Her fingers captured already hardened nipples and she squeezed gently, causing another moan to escape from the throat of the blonde. Never stopping her ministrations on the hard buds in her fingers, the taller woman leaned in and took captive the mouth that was half open and inviting her lips without words. Tongues clashed in heightening passion.

Candace decided she was not going to be the only woman in the room half naked. She pulled Taylor's T-shirt up the firefighters back as far as she could rubbing her hand along bared skin as she went. Taking the not so subtle hint, Taylor unwillingly pulled away from her delight and took the shirt off the rest of the way. Candace had known that Taylor was powerful just from being held in her arms and by the fact that she lifted her without effort. Even though she had seen her at the pool, Taylor had been in the water most of the time so she wasn't able to get a close look at her body. Now she held her breath gazing at the strength this woman had. The muscles that Taylor possessed were long and well defined. The broad shoulders were begging to be held tightly in the throes of passion. "Oh my." *Talk about a six-pack.* Candace was planning strategy as to just what she could do with her tongue and those abs.

"I take it you approve."

"Oh yeah! Now, could you lose the sports bra?" Taylor smiled and began to oblige. "SLOW! Slow. I want to watch. I like to watch." A sly smile played on the lips of the green eyed singer.

Taylor slowly pulled the bra up over her head. Candace marveled at generously firm, well-rounded, breasts. In a teasing fashion the tall woman grasped her own breasts and tugged gently on hardened nipples. The blonde indeed did enjoy watching. As if in a trance Candace advanced toward the gift before her eyes and traced a wet circle around one nipple with her tongue capturing a long finger in her mouth at the same time. In slow languorous movements she sucked on both. Taylor moaned loudly and clutched a blonde head in her free hand and pushed into the heat of Candace's tongue. The small woman obliged the demand and released the finger only to capture sweet pebbled flesh in her warm mouth. Her hand reached out and rubbed the lone nipple with the flat of her palm. Taylor shivered and knew she was quickly losing the battle of control. Reluctantly she pulled the suckling woman's mouth away from her breast and replaced it with her lips. The kiss proffered was searing in its intensity. There was no shyness left as tongues battled for a place in the others mouth.

Breaking the kiss the tall woman slowly knelt down, placing lips on tender flesh as she went. She unbuckled a belt and began slow torturous work on the button. As soon as it was loose a small kiss was placed on the skin below. Work began on the zipper just as slowly with more kisses being planted as it lowered. The moment it was all the way down, strong white teeth nipped at one hipbone and then the other causing the younger woman to clench her teeth and tremble slightly.

"I think I'm going to pass out." Candace placed her hand on top of black hair to steady her weakening legs.

"Not yet love. Not yet." Taylor slid a hand under the edge of Candace's shorts and slid her fingertips up a warm silken inner thigh. She reached the elastic band of the barrier in her path. Her long thumb spread out and found wetness seeping through satin. With slight pressure she pushed into Candace's intimate area, stroking a long path bottom to top sending shock waves through her captive as her thumb slid against a very sensitive bundle of nerves. A rapid exhale of air accompanied by a deep moan left the small woman's lips as she flinched. "Oh God, Taylor! We need to get in this tub now or we'll never make it."

"Patience. Patience." The words were whispered into soft skin. The firefighter was very pleased with the response she was receiving from her blonde angel. She really hadn't expected Candace to be as open to her as she was. The connection they share must have dropped those barriers. Every touch, every taste was electric. She knew they both felt it. In slow agonizing movements Taylor lowered the shorts to the floor. Sandals slid off at the same moment as the shorts.

Candace leaned down and pulled Taylor's head back to peer into intensity she had never before witnessed. "Come here." She pulled gently on the back of the dark woman's neck in a request that she stand.

Sliding swollen nipples along exposed skin, the tall woman returned to her feet. "Let me help you take these off." Candace emphasized the point by rubbing her hand roughly over the front of jean covered thighs. Taylor grinned and undid the front of her pants. Candace reached around and helped with the removal of the offending clothing. As she pulled underwear got stuck in her grasp and were removed with the jeans. Now only a thin layer of material stood between them.

Taylor softly ran her hands over the blondes shoulders and brushed Candace's hair back. Green eyes again connected with sapphire, and they promise of coming passion. Taylor continued her journey with her hands down a muscular back to their final destination caressing the firm round bottom in her palms. She tucked her hands under the waistband of Candace's underwear and pulled them down following as they went. She came face to face with the downy blonde curls that covered the center of her woman's desire. She inhaled gently allowing the scent to tickle her senses. She placed a few small kisses around the area and heard a gasp in response.

"I swear, Tay. You're gonna kill me."

"Well, I certainly wouldn't want to be responsible for your death."

With great effort she pulled herself away from the treasure and stood over the blonde woman. Naked in front of each other for the first time, they took in the sight of the one another. With aching slowness they came together in a solid embrace allowing skin to caress skin. Candace leaned back and pulled Taylor's lips to her own. The kiss was as sweet as any kiss had ever been. A tangible expression of love touched the two women as they came together. Time stopped as the blonde and the brunette explored the feelings that were raging within them. After several minutes Taylor pulled away to peer into the eyes of her love and spoke in a voice that was thick with desire.

"How on earth did I ever live without you?" The blonde head shook slightly in response to a question she had no answer for. "I love you."

Taylor had merely whispered the words but they rang like thunder in Candace's ears. The singer thought she would pass out from the thrill of hearing a dream come true. *I never thought I would be loved again. This is too amazing.* "Taylor? Are you sure? I know what you told me before, but you haven't known me that long."

"My love, I have known you forever. Let me ask you this, how do you feel?"

Candace looked into eyes that held more love than she had ever seen in her life and she knew the answer. "I love you, too. Oh, God. I love you, too." The realization of all that was taking place was too much for the small woman with the huge heart to handle. Her eyes filled with tears and they flowed freely down her face.

"That's supposed to make you happy." Taylor brought a gentle hand up to wipe away the tears.

"I couldn't be happier. I didn't think I would ever find love again and love is what came to save me. Way to go Artemis."

"Yeah. I think now would be a good time to take advantage of this bath. What do you say?"

"After you."

Taylor lifted long muscled legs into the warm fragrant water. It was perfect. She held a hand out to Candace which was promptly accepted. Taylor sat with her back to the end of the tub with her long legs stretched out before her. Candace picked her spot, which happened to be between Taylor's legs. Long arms wrapped themselves around the slight waist and squeezed. The blonde pushed herself back into her partner and felt a tickle as short hairs touched the small of her back. A flutter seized her stomach and she moaned aloud while leaning back into Taylor.

Taylor felt the pressure in her groin and responded with a nudge forward. Even in the water she could feel wetness flow from her and she knew self control was flying quickly out the window. She dipped her head and brushed her lips against a very inviting neck. She couldn't resist letting her tongue slide out to taste the flesh beneath her mouth. Chills ran up Candace's spine and her flesh responded by raising small bumps all over her body. Her nipples hardened and puckered in invitation. An invitation Taylor was quite pleased to accept. Her hands slid up from Candace's waist to her breasts balancing them in her hands. The weight of them pushed her senses to a new limit. Her finger and thumb sneaked out and grasped taut nipples. She rolled them like soft silk between her fingers.

Candace gasped loudly and dipped her head down. Her eyes were closed as she reveled in the ecstasy that was filling her. She knew she could come just from the play that Taylor was performing her very sensitive breasts.

"Oh Taylor! Ummm. Don't stop. Don't stop! Give me your hand." Her breath was heavy and rasping. She was surprised she could get any words out at all.

Taylor obeyed the demand and Candace seized control of her hand. Soon her fingers were guided to the folds of wetness that were her lovers. "Touch me....here." The brunette realized that this was not going to wait. She grazed long digits all around the sensitive flesh and teased the small bundle of nerves with feather light touches. Still teasing and pinching the blondes pink nipple the firefighter began taking more of the pert breast into her touch. Candace was shaking beneath her skilled control. Taylor became bolder in her advances and placed more pressure on the nub with her thumb rubbing it in small deliberate circles.

The blue eyed woman greedily desired Candace's release. "Come for me." She whispered hotly in the blondes ear. That was all she could take. Candace threw her head back into Taylor and cried out.

"Taaaaylor! Aaah yeah!" She continued to moan loudly as pulsating waves of orgasm plunged through her. The heat of her passion surprised and thrilled Taylor. She held her charge firmly while never relenting on her ministrations. The tremors subsided and Taylor let up on the pressure she had been holding against nerve endings. She softly kissed Candace's neck and whispered sweet words of love to her.

The small spent woman suddenly felt guilty. "I am sorry."

"What do you have to be sorry for?" Taylor was gentle and sweet in her tone. It was obvious that she wasn't upset by the event that had just taken place.

"I couldn't stand it any longer. I should have waited or at least tried to."

"Wait? I wanted it just as much as you. Candace, that was beautiful. You are beautiful. It was magic, my love. And to think that this is only the beginning. "

"You are the magic here. You knew just where to touch me and when. Wow! I think you just might spoil me." The words came out sounding a little weak and slurred. She felt somewhat spent. Leaning back into Taylor she finally began to breath normally again.

"Spoiling you is my pleasure as well as my intention. And, if I recall correctly, the "when to touch" came from you." With a smile she kissed the top of a blonde head and sat back against the curve of the bath taking the reclining Candace with her.

"Oh yeah. I guess it was." Not meaning to change the subject Candace did anyway. "Will you wash my back? That would feel sooo good and when you're with me done it's my turn to do you."

"Subtle innuendo there?"

"It is possible."

"Mmmm.Humm Hand me the soap and the loofa."

Candace found the articles and handed them back to Taylor. She soaped the sponge and then lavished long strokes of the slippery substance on a well-defined back. Candace was truly relishing in the attention. It warmed her heart as well as her libido. Taylor dropped the loofa and began a slow massage down Candace's back and up her neck. *This is bliss!* "That feels so nice. I didn't realize how tense I was. You would think I was nervous."

"Nervous? After...well, you know." Taylor was blushing in spite of having be the responsible party in the pleasure Candace had enjoyed.

"Not about me. It's you. I mean, what if I don't do it right?"

"That, my love, is the last thing on my mind."

"It's not your mind I am concerned about." Candace pushed back into Taylor and slid her soapy back seductively against firm breasts. Taylor's nipples hardened in response to the wonderful sensation.

The tall brunette took the opportunity to wrap her long arms around the small compact form and caress her. She let her hands wander across a smooth stomach and trail down tight well muscled thighs and back up again. "Stand up." Taylor whispered hotly in the blonde's ear causing a small quake to skitter through her loins.

"Why?"

"Just do it." Candace was hesitant but obliged none the less. "Turn around. Face me."

The singer shyly turned and felt extremely exposed to the gaze of azure eyes. Taylor found the soap and lathered up her hands. "My mother always used to tell me 'If you want to be sure your fruit is clean you have to wash it yourself.'" This explanation in place she reached up and placed on hand on the small of Candace's back and the other slick hand between her thighs. "Spread for me." Shock waves of desire shot through Candace and she tried to remain on her feet. Struggling for balance she spread her legs apart enough for Taylor to have access to her most intimate area. Taylor's long fingers had already touched her there but this exposure was sweet torture at its best. The brunette slipped long lathered fingers along the folds and lips of her lovers center touching every inch with care. Having finished with the front she smoothly trailed her hand back to find a small puckered place that made Candace jump.

"Tay?"

"No worries, babe. I would never do anything you don't want. But, if I'm washing my fruit, it is all getting washed." She ran her slick finger around the small circle stimulating the area very slowly. Candace unaware that she was doing so, closed her eyes and spread her legs a bit more. In an unconscious movement, she then bent over placing her hand on Taylor's shoulder and moaned. Taylor grinned to herself and placed the response in her memory for a later pursuit. First things first.

"Time to rinse."

The blonde responded slowly as if in a trance. She had never in her life felt the kind of euphoria that was running rampant through her body. Her skin burned with passion that matched the fire in her partner's eyes. She was about to lose herself in this woman and it excited and petrified her at the same time. She slowly re-entered the warmth of the bath and her lover's embrace. The two souls were content for a time to merely savor the essence of each other. Completeness was hard to find and these knew that they had that treasure in their grasp.

"Mmmm. This feels incredible. I could spend the rest of my life in your arms." Candace had never meant any words more, except 'I love you.'

"Plan on it." Taylor was content at that moment to savor the feeling of the small blonde in her arms. There were underlying urges begging to boil to the surface, but she held them in check in submission to her emotions. She loved this stranger who was her deepest need and she wanted to emblazon this perfect moment on their souls.

"Perfect."

"Tay?"

"Yeah?"

"Perfect?"

The long legged woman thought deeply before she spoke. "There are few, if any, perfect moments in anyone's life. This is a perfect moment. Stop and feel the power that is surrounding us. That is the power of perfection. Gabrielle and Xena gave the world hope that perfect love will always have a chance to exist, even in the darkest of times. You were a huge part of that. Without you none of this would have happened and evil would have won out in the end."

"Ares."

"Ares. Between Xena, Gabrielle, and you along with Artemis and Aphrodite, he was forever defeated. There will always be war, but there will also always be love to counteract it. It may not seem like much but it will be enough."

"Honey, you have better insight into this than even I do. How is that?"

"The dreams."

"O.K., I'll bite. What dreams?" Candace absently ran her hands across the surface of the water causing small ripples to form. The action was akin to what had happened to her, to them. All of them. One small action after another and the face of eternity had changed. Taylor's voice brought her up from the depths to reality.

"Through my entire life I have had dreams a visions of another life. Battles and death. Ares. He haunted me with nightmares of great holocaust. Horrible destruction. And then she came. I know it was Gabrielle. You look just like her by the way. She had a love emanating from her powerful enough to ward off the mental attacks. It was 'their' love. I understand now he was trying to destroy me. Surely I would have committed suicide or worse. Without me there is no 'us' and that makes a liar out of Art and Aph and they have to answer to Zeus. The agreement between them and Gabrielle becomes null and void and then no guarantee of perfect love."

"Why haven't you told me any of this before?"

"First, because I didn't begin to truly understand until Jan read the scroll. I didn't equate your looks to hers until we were in the limo. And second, because you needed to find certain things out on your own. Your feelings for me had to be real and not out of any grandiose need to save the world, so to speak."

"Just like it was with Xena. It all had to be real or it wouldn't work."

"Exactly."

"Wow! We have a lot riding on us."

"You know Melinda and Janice would never have been together had it not been for what you did. And I am sure that there are many in the past and many more to come. Never take lightly what you did. It was an amazing thing."

Candace turned around to face Taylor. Kneeling between her legs she was eye to eye with her soulmate. They had done a great deal of talking and had been to hell and back in the past 24 hours and Candace had come to an important realization. "You know, you sound an awful lot like Xena. She was a very wise woman. You must be related." Soft lips sought out a willing mouth and found a willing heart at the same time. "And you taste wonderful. I think it must be genetic."

"Oh Really? Kiss me again just to be sure."

Candace leaned in full body against the long frame of her lover. Pushing against the bottom of the tub she rubbed her slick body along heated flesh. She caught ready lips with her own. Taylor's hands gripped firm bottom mounds in her hands and pulled Candace further up her body causing both women moaned. Candace pulled back from the kiss to fall into a vortex of blue desire. She ground her sex into Taylor's strong abs. Their foreheads met in almost bruising force. Candace threw her head back and gave Taylor a glorious view of bouncing breasts. Her mouth tried to devour them whole. They slid in and out and around her mouth and face. She kissed and licked the tops, sides, nipples, and did her best to catch the sweet bottoms. Grinding at an almost frenzied pace. Water splashed to the floor. The next step was obvious.

"T....ay?"

"Mmmm.....ohh..that's good....Yeah?"

"Can.....ah ha....ssssss...we..... please....hhhho... go to bed?"

"O.o.o.o....O.K." She slowed her movements to a sexual grind. Sweat covered her face and her hair stuck in strands across it. "Let me wash up real quick."

Candace place a burning kiss on her and stood up. "I'll be waiting."

The look in those emerald eyes sent a shiver skittering through her stomach. "I swear to God I won't be long."

"Didn't think so." She stepped out and grabbed a towel off the rack.

The wait wasn't long at all. Laying on the bed, Candace was watching the candlelight bounce off the ceiling when she felt lips on her toes. It was an interesting sensation. The touch was warm and slick. The erotic kiss was then on the top of her feet. Taylor was worshiping at the Temple of Candace and she wasn't skipping anything. The blonde writhed under the passionate tongue of her lover. She had never before felt the surging of electricity like she was now experiencing. It was if every nerve ending in her body was connected to one very sensitive center spot. It felt swollen and very needy. She knew one touch would send her. The singer was caught in a web of sensations. Taylor was kissing her ankles, caressing her calf, licking behind her knees. Her legs spread of their own accord and she felt wetness escape and trickle down the crease of her cheeks. God, she was so ready.

Taylor manipulated her way up calves, knees and thighs, finally reaching her desired destination. The view from between strong sexy legs, was unbelievable. Golden hair formed a halo around a perfect face with deep green eyes that begged her for release. Breasts jutted up, pointed at the top with rocksoild nubs of flesh. Abdominal muscles popped and quivered with every kiss she placed on olive skin. Wet dripping curls that beckoned to her. *Like riding a bike. Ha! This is better than any bike I ever rode.* Taylor place her hands on Candace's knees and pushed them up and apart.

The exposure itself came close to giving Candace a heart attack of an intimate kind. She thought she might die right then. When she felt Taylor's probing tongue begin to explore her soft folds she jumped at the contact. "Oh, Sweet Lord! Oh Goood!" She grasped for the head between her legs. The tongue probed deeper into softness, caressing and memorizing each fold with great care. Without warning she was impaled on the most exquisite tongue she had ever had the pleasure of knowing. It move in her like it was custom made. Hard and long it found spots inside of her she didn't know existed. She was unable to control the sound the escaped her throat. It was more of a growl than a scream. "Rrrrrrrrrrrrrraaa."

Persuasive fingers wove their way through a her dark mane, pulling her in. Taylor delved into Candace's entrance in utter abandon. She wanted to eat this woman until she couldn't stand up.

With her right hand she reached up a long arm and grasped a sweat slick breast. She tugged at the nipple with gentle firmness. A small hand covered hers and joined in the manipulations. Taylor smiled at the boldness and the intimacy. Candace continued touching herself as blue eyes satisfied voyeuristic tendencies. *That looks so fucking sweet.* Her hand found it's way to a very swollen ridge of nerves. It moved under her fingers.

Taylor touched her and she could feel the imminent explosion originate in the very toes that had started this journey. "Shit..Tay..oh...oh..donstop!" Two more strokes of gentle persuasion marked the beginning. Fire ripped through her veins leaving lightening in it's wake. This was bound to kill her or at least leave her incapacitated for a while. "Taaaaylorrrrrraaaaaaaammmm!" Her back arched as her hand gripped a dark head tighter. It was a long was down from the edge she had been led to and the fall was heavenly.

Taylor stroked the hooded bundle of nerves while her tongue plunged as deeply as she could push it. Her soulmate begged her not to stop, so she deliberately caressed the nub two, maybe three more times. She felt petite toes curl and pulsing softness around her tongue soon after. She hungered for this release. Moaning, she leaned further into Candace, pushing her as far as she was willing to go. A deep moan escaped her own lips and her own hips ground into the covers of the bed. Candace trashed above her shuddering with the pleasure of her climax. Holding tight Taylor rode the tide out with her. As the movements slowed and shuddering reduced its hold on the singer, Taylor moved up to hold Candace tenderly in her arms. A teardrop fell on her chest and her concern heightened.

"Hey, love. Enough tears for today don't you think?" Taylor placed a small kiss on her nose.

Candace laughed through her tears. "Yeah, but you're still here and so am I."

It took the raven headed woman a moment to understand. "Ohh. I don't have anything I can say to that except even the Gods couldn't get me to leave you."

The blonde snuggled closer into the strong shoulder of her firefighter. She closed her eyes and said a silent prayer of thanks.

Taylor held her lover close to her. If she could take this precious woman into her very body she would do it. She felt steady breath against her flesh and knew the small blonde was sleeping. She planted a lingering kiss on blonde locks and closed her own eyes. Peaceful sleep overtook her quickly.

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

Candace woke from her slumber with nature screaming in her ear. She extricated her body gently from her lover's warm embrace. After her relief she strolled back toward the bed. From across the room she noticed blue eyes admiring her advance. She stopped her progression, leaned against the dresser and smiled seductively at her soulmate.

"You like the view?"

"THAT, would be a huge understatement." She flew out of the bed and was standing next to the blonde before she could think. Taking Candace's good hand, she put it to her lips. Leading her back to the bed she didn't take her eyes off of the treasure she loved with all of her being. "You are the sexiest, hottest, most edible woman in the world." When the journey to the bed ended, Taylor whisked Candace into her arms and laid her gently on the soft down. Placing her body above the smaller woman, she put most of her weight on her arms and knees. Leaning in she stole a passionate kiss. Using a wrestling move one of her cousins had taught her, Candace flipped the shocked woman onto her back.

"My turn there, firegirl. You are mine and I intend to feast on you." She pushed her heated body into Taylor and snared her neck in a wanton mouth.

"Far be it from me to argue with being a feast."

Whispering against flesh Candace made her purpose known. "I am going to tease you...*kiss* ...touch you....*nip*........lick you....*suck*....taste you.....*lick*....and make you scream my name." She knelt above her quarry and dangled her breasts in her face. "Ready?"

"Oh my. Yeah, I'm ready…….I hope." The swaying temptations were soon being devoured by her hungry mouth. Both hands fondled full globes with a greedy craving. Candace allowed her lover to enjoy her assets. It would make the dark woman that much more excited. It was doing wonders for her.

Pulling back from Taylor, Candace sat on a strong stomach, grinding her wetness into smooth muscles. Taylor still held pert breasts in her hands. As the blonde ground into her, the mounds in her grasp took on a life of their own. Nipples solidified to puckered nubs, which she pulled gently. *This was so hot to watch.* Silky blonde hair hung down and brushed along her hands as she touched the gift offered to her. Every sensation tingled across her heart. Candace moved Taylor's hands away and bent to her lips. They could never kiss enough. Tongues slid across lips, teeth and each other. Hot, slick and clashing.

The singer trailed soft kisses along the firefighters strong jawline whispering confirming words of love as she went. "I love you." "I love your neck." She left spots of heat all along the curve of her neck. "I love your eyes" She placed a gentle kiss on each eyelid. "And these ears...mmm." A probing tongue caressed a truly edible lobe. Taylor moaned in delight. It felt totally yummy!

The blonde was nowhere near finished. She knew it had been a very long wait for her 'warrior', and she wanted to prove that it had been worth it. Candace kissed her way back to a willing mouth and softly laid her lips against Taylor's. Deliberately, they melted into one another. She wanted to bring the firefighter to a mind-bending orgasm, yes, but she also had a mind to romance her. Candace moved off to Taylor's side and put her head in the crook of the strong shoulder. Looking up, she peered deeply into the pools of love that soon threatened to drown her. A small hand traced a high cheekbone, memorizing the shape and line of the beautiful face. "Beautiful." Taylor blushed at the compliment.

"I'm pleased you think so."

"Oh, I more than think so." She kissed her again and placed her petite hand on a perfect breast.

The warmth emanating from the contact crept enticingly through Taylor's entire body. She closed her eyes and just let herself feel. Her heart soared as Candace lightly touched her body. Scarcely hinting at the passion to come, fingers and palm explored every curve and dip with love. Candace ran her middle finger up and down the crease between curls mixed with heat and a smooth inner thigh. Hardly a whisper of contact sent shivers running free along Taylor's spine. Wetness flowed freely, drawn from her by the touch of magic her lover was applying. Anticipation was growing with every move of the small hand along her skin.

Candace discovered as many of Taylor's erotic spots as she could. The things that made her moan and squirm were committed to memory. She wanted to probe with her mouth and tongue each and every one of those spots. "So responsive." She smiled.

Taylor opened her eyes and watched her lover admire, caress and kiss her body. The sight of green eyes filled with such desire and need for her cause a ripple to jolt through her belly. Her own hand found a place on a strong back. She loved the feel of the muscles that moved and twitched under her fingers. A very hot mouth latched on to the hollow of her neck sending more electricity to her throbbing center. Candace tweaked a nipple and then ran her open fingers across the hardened nub. Taylor wasn't sure how much more she could take.

Heavy breath threatened to swallow her words, "Candace, ohhh. Plea.....se....touch me."

Candace's hand slowly wandered down to the triangle of soft hair. Radiating all of her fingers from center to edge, she ran her fingers through it teasingly. "Touch you here?" Her fingers grazed a trail along the outside of very tender lips.

"O...h...o..h. Shit! Yes. There." Like she didn't know.

"For you...," She positioned her middle fingers at the slick opening and applied slight pressure, teasing her even more. Taylor let out a loud moan and shook with desire, "anything." She slipped her fingers slow inches into the midst of the heated flesh. Taylor's desire could not be contained.

She screamed out at the penetration. It had been so long. She was having a difficult time containing her passion.

Without so much as a hesitation, Candace found the way to the center of her woman's need. Her questing tongue touched the swollen collection of nerves, causing Taylor's legs to twitch. She licked it fully and then sucked it into her friendly mouth. Fingers continued their searching and thrusting. Taylor's was so close she had fallen silent and was merely shaking in anticipation. A sheen of sweat covered her shaking body. Candace paced her movement to match her lovers. Taylor stopped moving and the blonde thought to do the same and then thought better of it. Instead she flicked the nub in her mouth with the tip of her tongue light butterfly movements. Her fingers touched the soft spot inside of her love. On the very edge, Taylor looked down to see green eyes waiting to catch her. Staring into that love, she let go. Screaming out her lovers name, her climax rushed through her, branding her very soul with the heat. Pulsing, it came like thunder. Waves of passion she shared with the only woman in all of creation that she dared to call her own. Tears were coming at the same time. Her soul had found it's mate and it screamed with joy.

Candace scooted up next to Taylor laying her head on the strong shoulder. Taylor pulled her into a tight embrace never wanting to let go. Candace saw the tears streaming down Taylor's cheeks but said nothing for a moment except, "I love you, Taylor. With all of my heart and soul. I love you."

The tall, brave firefighter had been tamed by a small, brave singer. Souls destined to be one, were once again and would be for all time to come.