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A few weeks later...
She spent her last hour in Sunnydale before getting into a car with Chase for a long drive with her friends, sans Jesse and including Kenyon.
They were picnicking together on the fringes of the town's recreational park, after which Ivory planned to say her final goodbyes and head off on her new adventure. All three (Hannah, Risa, and Kenyon) were aware by now of what lay ahead of the Slayer, and it caused them worry. But that had been set aside for the afternoon, and the quartet was intensely focused on having fun.
Hannah giggled hysterically at the comical faces Kenyon was making, in his own attempt to add some levity to their time together. Pelting him with a piece of popcorn, she said, "You are such a goofball, you know that?" To Ivory, she added, "Explain to me again how this guy got into your good graces!"
Ivory laughed as well; it felt good. "You know how, Hannah!" she replied, not feeling up to telling the story again for the umpteenth time. Over the past few weeks, she had warmed up to Kenyon, as his attitude gradually began to change. Plus, in just the last week, they had gone on a date to the movies, and Ivory was appreciative that he didn't get gropey during it. "And besides, it wasn't just that talk we had before all hell broke loose. He also won points for saving Risa's life."
Kenyon smiled, taking a bite of his cheeseburger. He chewed and swallowed quickly, then said, "It was the least I could do, being a member of your team and all."
Hannah turned slightly to look at him. "You know, that's one good thing that came out of the whole roller rink fiasco. At least I don't have to keep this to myself anymore. I have more people to share it with now."
Ivory nodded mutely, looking from Hannah to Risa to Kenyon and back again. "I couldn't have asked for a better team," she said softly, adjusting her sunglasses. "You guys promise to protect the town nightly while I'm gone?"
"You know we will!" Hannah replied with a snort. "And with my parents and Risa's mom helping out... Whatever's left when we're through is going to run screaming from this town!"
Ivory's smile widened at the young girl's exuberance. Reaching over to pat Hannah's hand, she said, "Stay safe, you guys. It wouldn't be good to come home and find out I'd traded my Mom for one of my friends."
"We will," Risa promised, "As long as you do the same. I hope you find what you're looking for in Arizona."
Kenyon smirked, giving into the urge to add one more snide remark. "Oh, and don't get too cozy with that Chase guy..."
Ivory scowled, reaching out to slug him lightly in the arm. "Work a little more on your phrases, Kenyon," she chided. "And promise to come visit me once or twice. I'll call you once I get settled, give you the address."
Kenyon agreed to this request, which was shortly followed by the quick blast of a car horn behind them. Ivory instantly looked towards the parking lot, seeing that Chase's car was parked there with the motor running.
She and her friends stood as one, and Ivory turned back to them, hugging each one in turn. "Man, I'm gonna miss you guys," she said, her voice almost getting caught in her throat. "But I'll call or write often, I promise!"
Hannah nodded. "We'll do the same," she assured the Slayer. "Good luck, Ivory, getting your Mom out." The redhead paused, grinning mischievously. "And kick some vampire butt while you're at it."
"Anything for you, Hannah," Ivory teased, taking a step backwards. She lingered a moment longer, her eyes fixed on their faces, then she picked up her previously-packed suitcases, turned, and headed for the car.
Chase opened the trunk so she could put her bags in, and it wasn't long before Ivory found herself seated in the passenger seat next to him. She looked out the window at her friends one last time, waving goodbye to them.
For the most part, the drive was spent in silence, and Ivory just let her thoughts take her to the possibilities that lay ahead. She had no idea what to expect, nor did she fret over it. The future was simply out there, tumbling towards them as they headed for their destination. All she could hope for, Ivory reasoned, was that it all would turn out for the best.
It was the only optimistic thought she had to hold onto, but, for now, it would have to be enough...
To Be Continued in Volume Two: True Colors