�Today just doesn't stop getting better. Tell me again, what did I do to deserve this?�
�You were born�� Willow started her standard response.
��and I exist.� Tara interrupted
�That's enough, that's more than enough.� They both finished together, smiling warmly at each other.
A small hug followed, then they walked, arms-linked, down the garden path.
Buffy and Dawn watched from the front porch as Willow, very chivalrously, opened the door and helped Tara to climb the step into the open-top carriage. The redhead turned to wave goodbye before climbing up and joining her girlfriend on the satin covered bench-seat.
As the horses pulled them along Willow's specified route the two lovers cuddled together to enjoy the sun set. This specific detail was the only thing Willow had had no control over, so she was especially glad that she had managed to time the carriage ride in time for them to watch the natural beauty of the ending of the day. The chosen path included a meander through Sunnydale's safest and most tranquil park; along the bank of said park's boating lake to see the ducks and swans; past the lovingly tended to flower-beds and through a small forest of oak trees.
Twenty minutes later they had arrived at their desired destination, a quaint little Italian restaurant. Willow had taken the liberty to book the entire establishment for the night, so that they would be the only diners. There was a little band playing soft music on violins, flutes and a piano, and the lighting was soft and romantic. The couple was seated at a small round table to the side of the makeshift dance floor; it had been laid out with silver cutlery, two crystal glasses, a small vase of pink and white roses and a single white candlestick. Next to the table was an ice bucket containing a bottle of the restaurant's finest (and most expensive) champagne, which was promptly poured for the lovers by the eager-to-please waiter. Two menus were provided and Willow and Tara were finally left alone while they decided what to have.
�This is amazing, I hope it wasn't as expensive as it all looks.� Tara was worried that Willow might have bankrupt herself on all the surprises.
�I pulled a lot of strings, and cashed in a few favours, but it hasn't cost even a fraction of what you're worth.�
�And what exactly am I worth?� Tara enquired playfully.
�Everything in existence ten times over, then a little bit extra on top.�
�So you just paid the little bit extra then?�
�Maybe. You know better than to ask how much your presents cost Miss Maclay. Now, what does my nosy little princess want to eat?�
�Lets see, fruit salad starter, followed by� I don't know. It all looks so tempting. What are you having?�
Green eyes glanced up from the menu they were studying.
�Soup to start with, then cannelloni, with potato salad.� The hacker recited her chosen dish.
�Mmm, sounds delicious. I think I'll have the spaghetti amour.� Tara stated in her best Italian accent.
�An excellent choice. I'll get the waiter.�
They placed their order and sipped champagne while waiting for the meals to arrive. They talked happily about everything and nothing all at the same time while they ate their meals. When the plates had been cleared they ordered a large chocolate gateau with cream and two spoons for dessert. The champagne was finished whilst they waited for the gateau and Willow requested the pleasure of a dance. Holding each other close with their heads resting on each others shoulders they completely forgot about their surroundings and the fact that there was a plate of chocolatey goodness to eat.
After some time the waiter, although reluctant to disturb them, gently tapped Willow on the shoulder and explained that their dessert has been served. The two lovers made their way back to the table and fed each other the sticky chocolate pudding. When it was finished a second bottle of champagne was ordered and poured into the glasses. A comfortable silence descended on them as they held hands and stared deep into each other's eyes across the table. It was a happily tipsy Tara who broke the silence, as a heart-warming smile graced her beautiful face.
