As a language maven I thank you for this thread!
Did you consider “-ward” or “-wards” as a combining form?
Few today see any need for particular clarity in expression, but many of our expressions come from another time when such was appreciated.
See a difference in the use of “backward” and “backwards”? How about “froward” or “forward” and “forwards”? What if “toward” had a different specific meaning and application than “towards”, what might it be? I offer a suggestion with no claim of authority.
A ward is among other things a defensive position in fencing. There are many of them. I use the word guard mostly. If your attack is specific and pointed, use “toward” as a singular, if general and sweeping then use “towards” as a plural. Never expect anyone to notice you have carefully used any apropos expression.
Why say “toward” when you could just say “to”? You can kick me to the curb, or you can kick me toward the curb or even kick me towards the curb, either way it’ll hurt, and you will have done a good thing, a service to humanity.
Please forgive my awkward comments, and please know that I am only a lover of the language not the ward of it. If you are moving towards greater beauty of expression and greater love of our lovely language, then let me direct sincere admiration toward that good part of your soul.
And also thanks to you....I've learned much in your response...I take it all in like a sponge!!!!