You Make Me Smile

[CrazyTaraWitch]

YAY!!!!!!

they are so cute

[taraforever]

SOOOOOOOOOOO GREEEEEAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTT
Thank you very much Emms

Please update soon, and keep on your amazing job

[Boadecia]

Yeay!! update-y goodness!! I love this fic its soooo warm and fuzzy lol

Seriously though, I love the fact that Tara was lying awake deliberating 'the call' How many times has that happened to us all?!

Keep up the fantastiche work!
Shell

[Fleiss]

wow!
great update!

[GayNow]

Yay, Emms!!!!

Great update, Emmy. Really liked the interactions between Willow and Tara...and of course Spencer and Willow. Very cute.

I'm glad Tara took the leap of faith and called Willow. We're not going to get to the next update just to find out that it was a dream, are we? Cuz that would be cruel and unusual punishment.

Looking forward to more more more.

Carleen

P.S. Damn that Logan. She needs her ass kicked.

[The Rose24]

Re: Anya. Is Willow a player?

Logan really is irresponsible, isn't she? She does not deserve a sweet woman like Tara or a son like Spencer.

[Emms]

This is replies for feedback left on chapter six. Much love to all the kittens who took time to leave a reply. Thank you all so much.

*******************************************

Jeanne!

Emms, you've made me not like Logan again, right when I was starting to think that she wasn't so bad after all.
I guess she has had a tough time - her family don't exactly sound like the nicest people in the world - but, that's no excuse for the way she treated Tara. & there are no words to describe how pissed off I am that Logan only wanted a child so that Tara would stay with her - how pathetic & selfish can you get? I do hope that Spencer never finds out that particular piece of information.

Aww I’m sorry Jea, it seems I am making a lot of people flip back and forth between seething hatred for Logan and thinking she might not be that bad. I think you’re right though, whatever her background is it all boils down to Logan making excuses for herself instead of taking responsibility for her action.

Sweetie, as usual your feedback is so sweet and fun to read. I really appreciate all the time and effort you put into your replies; it really shows you care. Thank you so much.
******************************************************

CrazyTaraWitch

Thank you, sweetie.
******************************************************
WillowRulez

I’ll just combine your two posts, if that’s okay with you.

Thank you for your thoughts about Logan. I think she does need a certain amount of therapy.

ETA: Just out of curiousity...what kind of car was Logan driving? Cuz, you know, 5y olds have to sit in back

You’re absolutely right, Spencer should be in the back seat (it‘s the law), but something tells me Logan isn’t too worried about where Spencer sits. She’s that type of irresponsible parent.
*******************************************************
k-prime

Incredible! I really like how you didn't focus on the romance side of it for most of the dinner, instead concentrating on how comfortable they felt around each other and the conversation.

Thank you. There’s still plenty of time for romance.

I'll admit, I'm worried about Logan, like she's going to do something stupid to split up Willow and Tara or maybe get Tara back. Hmm...

I think it’s possible that she could try and split them up…but judging by how Tara had been toward her this whole time I really doubt that that is possible. It could be a good angst point though, If willow becomes insecure about that and worries that Logan and Tara will get back together for the sake of Spencer.

******************************************************
Carleen!

Woo! Feedback from Carleen! And you like it! You really like it! {/swoon]

Okay…I’m better now.

*******************************************************
Erin,

Thank you for reading. And I promise kisses are not far away.
********************************************************
Guppy,

I was so glad to see an update! And what a wonderful and long update it was too. So, Logan, dropping even farther in my list. Using Spencer to try to control Tara is absolutely terrible. She has to grow up and take responsibility.

agreed

Enough about her though. The whole evening with W&T was wonderfully written and so cute! It felt completely natural and not rushed. And Willow wanting to save the world by making blankets, definately cute.

Thank you.

That is excellent writing! You paint awesome stories with your words!
I can't wait to see how this job and Friday go! Thanks for the update.

You are such a sweetie!

*******************************************************
Hi there gabbyx19,

Thank you for the lovely feedback, I’m glad you’re enjoying the story.

***********************************************
Writerfreak,

i must say that your update is definitely one of the sweetest things i have ever read. its how falling in love should be. spencer is the sweetest boy. and im already in the disliking logan club. can we say issues.... another fabulous update Emms.

Aww thank you, dear.
***********************************************
Watson,

Logan is self-absorbed and misguided. There is a lot of potential for angst, because we're not sure how she could react to the introduction of Willow into Tara's and Spencer's life. On the other hand, she is thinking ... or trying to think through her own issues and perhaps she could acknowledge her assholeness and focus on Spencer, who adores her, rather than the inevitable jealousy about the W/T relationship

.

I’m thinking you’re right. The potential for Angst is very high. We have Logan, who’s kinda like this ticking time bomb of random angst that can go off at any time and then we have Willow, who has had a lot of lovers and has never experienced commitment paired with Tara who is for all intents and purposes is a single parent who has just ended a relationship with someone who was always cheating on her…this is a highly volatile situation.

Spencer continues to charm, you have such a great grasp of what makes a child tick.

Thank you. That just comes with the territory. I have been a nanny for many years. The older kids that I take care of joke with me that I always know what they are going to do before they do it and that they can’t get away with anything. It’s true.

***********************************************
Sally,

This was fantastique, Emmy! I like how you gave us some more insight into Logan's character, and her growing self-awareness is certainly making her uncomfortable. In my experience people don't really get that kind of self-awareness until they're on the verge of making a big change in their selfish behavior, so I wonder if Logan is going to change or what. It was also good to get that view since many of us were concerned that she was going to try to snatch the kid.

Thank you, Sally!

Very sweet interactions with Willow and Tara. I guess Willow didn't come out to Tara as in "I'm GAY AND I WANT YOUR BOD!" but Tara knows, eh? Flowers, flirting, dancing, and all. Plus tasting the sauce, very simultaneously homey and erotic. I can't wait till they interact again. I guess if Tara takes a job with Willow that will be a blessing and a curse - she'll be around Willow a lot but on the other hand, they'll have a new, cursedly professional dynamic to deal with.

Hahaha! I’m sure you’re right. I can’t picture “I’m GAY AND I WSNT YOUR BOD!” would go over too well…not on a first “sorta-date” I think that would have frightened Tara away.

And…I don’t think we’ll have to worry about Tara taking a job with Willow…but who knows…she might. I basically wanted to give Willow something she would have to “give up” in order to prove to herself how much she feels for Tara…because right now, the money she is making and her career is all that she really knows how to live for. (not that any of that is going to happen…er…I was just sayin’)

I can relate to Willow's thoughts about how she somehow got off track for what she thought her life's plan would be, career-wise, and how she thought she would change the world, and then the brick wall of reality. Yep. Yep.

I can relate to that too…I think we all can to some extent.

**********************************************************
sacinema

Thanks for the update. Tara and Willow are really cute together and this getting to know each other is very special and sort of different than a lot of other stories. Like it very much. And nice that in the end Willow was content enough to admit the flowers to be Tara's. We know that she had a hot date by than. But ok they are taking it slow.

Thank you. I’m glad you think so.

Wonder what the brat Logan will be up to. Guessing she will cause a lot more trouble for our two favorite girls. And working together like Sally said could be hell and heaven at the same time. Looking forward to the next update.

Oh I don’t know…Logan could surprise you and be a complete angel for the rest of the fic…
*******************************************
Irene

Having a child to keep your mate? Tsk tsk Logan. If it's meant to be, it is...if not, let it go. Control over another human being is not a healthy way to keep a relationship going. Her motives were completely wrong but I can see that Logan has warmed up to having a child and loves him dearly. What worries me though is how she blames the entire universe for the angst in her life and doesn't acknowledge that 'perhaps' she might have something to do with it. Hey Tara didn't force her not to attend university, ultimately it was her choice...right?

I agree with you…but I was actually trying to say that Logan blamed her mother for the fact that she didn’t attend college…not that she blamed Tara. She might as well have been saying though, because she blames Tara for everything else right?

I wonder how Logan will react to Willow and Tara's developing relationship. I know she might feel threatend by Willow's success and jealousy over the fact that Spencer adores Willow. Is Logan still in love with Tara or is it a simple case of mine, mine, mine...I had her first?

At this point…I think anything is possible.

Yep, I'm joining everybody else in saying that this bit was hilariously funny. I too can make Texas Chili, not like the back of my hand mind you. I simply grab my can opener, crank open a can of Stagg chili and boisterously utter the words, I've got spurs that jingle jangle jingle... Hee Haww!!

The dinner was simple and pleasent. Just the way a first date should be. I'll go along with what Watson said, the little snippets were perfect in their simplicity and weaved the evenings activities very nicely. No mucho, ni muy poquito...perfecto!

I’m glad you enjoyed that. Writing it in “snippets” just came naturally as the scenes progressed…which is unusual for me, cause I hardly ever piece things together like that.

Spencer...gosh he reminds me of a certain little Papito I have to contend with. Let me just crank up my mariachi and cumbia music and he's on me like bees on honey. He says, "Mom if you dance mexican I have to dance mexican." I love him. My daughter just looks at me and says, "I learn through osmosis." She's not the dancing type.

Hehehe…that makes a cute visulal, Irene. Your son sounds like my niece. Whenever there’s music she is ready to dance! Ever since she was first walking and talking she would come up to me and say “Me! Me! Me dance Nauny!(she calls me Nauny) and I would have to pick her up and dance around with her.


*********************************
Amy

Wow! This was such an excellent update to one of my favorite stories in Pens. Your writing is flawless and as usual I get sucked in. I really enjoyed the flirty W/T interactions. It was really sweet and sexy. I'm glad Willow gave her the flowers at the end

Aww, thank you so much! I couldn’t hope for any more than that. And yep Tara got her flowers..

**********************************
TheRose24

I’m happy you like the story.

*************************************************
Debra,

Willow and Tara's connection was adorable but I have one thing to say: KISS! I almost think that these people don't deserve to be together if neither of them can muster up enough initiative to kiss each other given all the clear signals. I know it makes it all go on longer but come on...

I know I’ve already left you individual reply to this feedback…but over the weeks I’ve had other thoughts on it.

Yes, but you have to understand where they are coming from… it’s not just two single women with no attachments or responsibilities here…if that were the case, I’d say: “heck, why don’t they just make out then?” but it’s not that simple. Tara has Spencer and an unpleasant past with Logan to get around and Willow has her commitment to work and her mixed emotions about Spencer.

and again....'cause I have something romantic planned.

***********************************************
Debra, (again)

Lol. But in School Days there was a good excuse: student/teacher (or so they thought). Here, no such excuse exists. They just both lacked initiative. On the other hand, if you have it all planned out, I'm sure it's bubbling over with romance and will be lovely!

Touché… and thank you at the same time.

************************************************
Candleshoe

I have only just found this - and I am so glad I did! I really like the idea of Tara as a mom. I always thought she would make a great mother, and you have proved me right. I do so like it when I am right.....

Thank you.

************************************************
Kaia,

First of all, I must apologize for not leaving feedback for this story till now, but I want you to know that I have read all your stories (yup, all of them) and like most of us in this board wait patiently for your updates.

No Apologies necessary. It’s always been my opinion that feedback is elective, not mandatory…though it is highly regarded as precious…and more of it does lead to faster updates.

I’m glad you’re enjoying the story, so far. And I hope you continue to read and post.

*******************************************
Fleiss
I’m so glad you’re still enjoying the story!
*******************************************
Boschi
Awww I’m sorry to have ruined your grumpy day… hehe
********************************************
Henny,

Your take on Logan is well thought out. And I can’t say that I disagree. Everyone is capable of doing some incredibly jacked-up things…but at the same time everyone is capable of change. I’m really enjoying all the sympathy you have for Logan…she’s gonna need it. Hehe

So Willow has never been in love? Or has she never been with some one in the way of physical relationship? Is that why she didn't move in for a kiss... she was so close?

Nope…they didn’t kiss. Mostly because I have their first kiss already planned out and that wasn’t it. And partly because they both have their reasons for waiting. Tara has Spencer to think about and can’t just rush into something without looking at all the aspects first, and Willow doesn’t know how to be in a relationship…not to mention the fact that Tara has a kid and Willow’s not completely comfortable around spencer. Not to say that she won’t become comfortable…it’s just…these things take time.

******************************************
WillowRulez

*Waiting for an update*
I just reread the fic and I really tried to like Logan at least a tiny bit... didnt work!

Aww…I’m sorry…at least you gave it a valiant effort. I hope you enjoy the next update.

*******************************************
Chris,

Hmm... Logan is interesting. Because on the one hand, ick - agreeing to have a child just to keep Tara tied down (There's only one way Tara should be tied down, and it involved Willow and a cute little riding crop with a red tassel on the end...) On the other hand, though her thought to herself that she really did love Spencer could have been just her justifying herself to herself - "I'm not a complete jerk, I do love the kid!" - I'm actually inclined to believe it's true. This is Spencer, after all, he's pretty adorable. And shy and insecure as Tara evidently was when she got together with Logan, I really can't imagine her staying with her to the point of having a child if Logan wasn't at least capable - if not willing - of being a better person than her history suggests. She's still afraid of the guilt (and no surprise, she's got a lot to feel guilty about), but the fact that she's feeling guilt at all is a sign that perhaps she can turn herself around. She's not doing it yet, but I don't think it's impossible that she could.

I totally agree with you (as usual)

On to Willow and Tara, and how cute was that dancing? Very cute, that's how. And the three-way dance with Spencer was also very much of the cuteness. I adored Willow's 'recipe on the back of her hand' joke, that was really sweet and funny.

I’m glad you liked the dancing and dinner parts.

And re: the whole kissing thing, I find it kind of sweet that they haven't kissed yet - with the understanding, of course, that they will,

Oh of course…it’s a must, in fact.

I like that they're enjoying each other's company as company, at the moment. It's something they've both lacked up until now. And I think it may be a good decision at this stage - they're both nervous, Tara because it's not just herself but Spencer as well, should she and Willow progress past dating to relationship, and Willow for the same reason - whether or not they're consciously aware of that, I think maybe it's good that they're getting time to get over the nervousness of being with each other, before they get to the serious business of being with each other

I couldn’t have said it better myself (and believe me, I’ve tried)

Tara got her flowers

Indeed.
******************************************************
Anna,

Wonderful update... I loved the comment Tara made about the "other date" in reference to the flowers Willow left in the car. It struck me as so very funny! What a perfect first date! They were so cute together with the talking and small flirting. I hope Tara takes Willow up on the "Texas Chili" at Willow's apartment. And thanks for the idea for dinner tonight.
Looking forward to whats next!

hehe. I'm glad I could help out with dinner. And thank you for leaving feedback, sweetie. I hope you know how much I value your thoughts.

P,S, Yeah, what's up with the weather out there... I saw pictures on the Weather Channel of first the flooding and then the terrible wind damage. Actually it's misting rain here today where as it usually pours in this part of the country. Kind of makes me homesick

Yeah, at the time of your post we were having a lot of flooding where I'm at (Eugene) In fact, three times that week, I had almost gotten stranded at work, due to the rising water. It sucked.

right now the weather is a little different. We're having what this part of the state calls a "winter storm" wich basically means that we've gotten a little snow and everyone is freaking out. (by a little snow I mean A LITTLE snow..one inch or less. )
****************************************************
TuesBlu

This is a romantic, but complicated little tale you're spinning. And, one that I am thoroughly enjoying. The chemistry between Willow and Tara is lovely. The natural seamless inclusion of Spencer into the dance was very sweet, and telling.

thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed the dancing bit. Personally I thought it was soooo sweet...but I'm bias, I suppose.

Well, then there's Logan. Guilt aside, despite all her supposed caring for Spencer, she doesn't seem to realize she's hurting him. Whether that's directly, by standing him up, or through her manipulations of both him and Tara. I guess, I'm waiting for the Logan shoe to drop....

Amen, sista'
****************************************************************
Ces,

i absolutely loved this chapter... well, logan aside... i think i understand now a little about logan, but that doesn't mean i like her any better... no matter how she justifies everything that's happened to her by blaming it elsewhere, nobody else is at fault but herself... logan might remember that saying about while you're pointing your finger at someone else, the other three fingers are pointing to you as well... well something to that effect at least... i hope spencer... and tara for that matter... never find out her reason for wanting spencer in their lives... i hope she is finally turning a new leaf and decided to be a more responsible adult about things... starting with patching her relationship with spencer and a platonic one with tara as well... i read henny's post on her thoughts about logan... i too in real life am not really judgmental or anything... but in your fic, it is just so easy to be suspicious of her motives i guess...

I totally don't think you're being judgmental, sweetie. I have given you good reason to suspect Logan's motives...She's the antaganist in this fic...so please feel free to suspect her.

I don't know about Spencer, but I suspect Tara already has a clue about Logan's past motives. How could she not? Logan is a totally obvious person...and selfish people are always the easiest to see through.

on to the "date," willow and tara are really making headway in their budding relationship... no kiss yet but i can see it in the near future.... they're getting more open with each other about their lives... willow is still somewhat hesitant talking about inner-willow stuff but i'm sure with tara will make her open up one way or another... with tonight's date though... with the talking, the dancing, the easy comfort, the flowers... they're going the right course to loveville (loveville? geez ces! cheesy much?!)...

Nope. No kiss yet...but I can definitly gaurentee one in chapter eight. I have no intentions of dragging this out past the breaking point. My aim is to make thier relationship as real as possible...and what two people could resist a kiss on thier first "date" especially if they are totally digging eachother as much as W?T?

Thanks Ces, and I hope I didn't give to much of chapter 8 away.

*******************************************************
Paul

Well, that was an interesting glimpse into Logan's mind, and what motivates her to act as she does so. That being said, I can't muster a whole lot of sympathy for her. Constantly refusing to accept any of the blame for your own actions isn't going to earn you any brownie points with me. And the idea of having a kid simply to tie someone down is utterly repellent. Not that Logan is utterly without redeeming features, oh no. That would be too easy, wouldn't it?

I can't say I blame you on the sympathy front...I haven't written her with a lot sympathy-causing qualities. One thing I could say in her defense though (as if she was a real person ) she's not really causing as much trouble as concievally she could be...so perhaps that means something.

Now, it's already been said to the nth degree, but I don't quite think it's reached the 'done to death' level yet, so I'm gonna say it anyway. That whole date between Willow and Tara was so damn cute I think my teeth are actually rotting as I type

oh...please believe me when I say: that could never be "done to death"

I do have one question though. Was this an actual date date? I didn't get that impression when they arranged it, but it definitely felt like it. Are they actually dating now, or stuck in some kind of dreaded limbo?

Well...from our veiwpoint (as the reader) it totally looks like a date...but from their pov It wouldn't look that way at all. So I guess that means that no...they are not dating. YET!

Thank you so much for the feedback, paul. I always love reading your thoughts on any given update.


***********************************************
lollipopgirl

Firstly I just want to mention again how much I love your writing. You never fail to captivate me and completely engross me in your writing!

That's all I could ever hope for.

...so I just gave up and headed over here to where I know I will never be disappointed. I am just so blown away with how much detail you put into each of your fics, right down to the change in colour and contrast of carpet after it has had a finger run through it.

You have no Idea how warm that makes the cockles of my heart.

On a different note, is it wrong for me to be feeling sympathetic towards Logan, or at least disliking her less? I mean, I know that her blaming everyone else, including Tara, for her "troubles" is wrong, stupid and cowardly but it also shows that deeper down she is weak, lost and scared... Her excessive drinking earlier also adds to my thoughts here. Emms, if this isn't how you wanted Logan to be portrayed, just say the word & I'll return to giving my computer evil glances whenever I see the name Logan!

nothing wrong with it at all. there is no need to give your computer evil glances on my account. I think everyone is entitled to thier own oppinion about Logan. She's still pretty much a two demensional charactor right now, so there's plenty of room for making up your own mind about her. Everyone has reasons behind the things they do, selfish or not...I suspect Logan is no different.

Finally Willow and Tara, awwwwwww... My god this fic is cute and I love the pace they are travelling at! Oh and the oven mit part, just genius & the flowers, adorable! Anyway Emms, I'm just in awe of your writing & I feel privileged to be able to read it so thank you! Again

awww...thank you so much.
******************************************************************
Dianneswillowtree

You are such a sweetie. First let me just say: welcome to the board. I'm glad you decided to start posting. And now I'll say: Thank you for reading my humble little story. I am glad you are liking it so much.

******************************************************************
umgaynow

In the proper corporate fashion...and knowing how long these things take to go through channels and how often they can sit in someone's inbox...I would like to post an official requisition for some KISSAGE, please...

thank you, from the desk of umgaynow

yes ma'am

******************************************************************
taraforever

Thanks, hun. I'm glad you like the story. More soon, I promise.

[tarebear]

oh yey! an update! i have read and once again awed by the richness of this story... reading this chapter definitely made my night....

i will come back later for a worthier(?) feedback... it's much too late to ask my brain to think!

ETA: I'm back after 10 years it seems

i thought at first that anya's comment about being the "gay of the day" has ruined the little-by-little headway willow and tara are making in their burgeoning relationship and that tara will make a run for it... and also, tara turning down willow's offer didn't help this train of thought either... but was i a happy kitten when she finally took that step and listened to what her heart must be screaming to her by now and finally asked willow out. YEY!

She’d seen the redhead cover her son with the blanket and it was amazing the warmth she’d felt in witnessing that one simple act. In every way, since the moment they’d met at the restaurant Willow had shown Tara, through her actions, her kind heart.

tara must have finally realized that willow can never be logan version 2.1.

i think it's so sweet on willow's part to move everything around in her schedule to accommodate tara... she really has her priorities straight... the work things she can always do tomorrow... spending time with tara is of utmost importance... and besides, she's been slaving for years to get the company to where it is now, i think she deserves a chance to live a life outside those walls. tara and spencer are definitely offering that chance.

with willow and tara's relationship developing more and more as it is, i kind of am wondering about willow's upcoming conference in japan... will she need to choose what's more important? will she stay and say, "there's always next year" or will she go and say, "they'll (tara and spencer) still be here when i get back."

“Would you like to go out with me?”

“I’d love to.”

finally! the icing on the cake for me! can't wait to find out how that will go! will it be just the two of them or will they include spencer? after all, he needs to know more about willow as well if she is going to be a big part of his life from now on... i'm sooo giddy with excitement!

you must have noticed that i'm almost at the end of my feedback and still no mention of logan so far? well, because of how badly she's treating spencer, she is not even worth mentioning... at all although by just stating those words, i have mentioned logan hehe... i'll logan if given a chance in hopes that i may knock some sense into her.

again, another fantastic chapter! can't wait for what you'll have for us in the next chapter!

bravo for another chapter well worth the wait

[Thianne]

“Would you like to go out with me sometime?”

i keep imagining her voice....makes me shiver. loved the update, thank you!

[FineyMcFine]

Yay, a date! Good for Tara for calling. It being 12:30am is all the more endearing, no matter if Willow was asleep or not. I love the pacing of this story. LOVE IT. I am always so happy when you update it, Emmy, and with the week I had, I needed to read something sweet and lovely.

Speaking of lovely, it's lovely that Willow has such a caring instinct about her that she puts a blanket on Spencer when he's asleep on the floor. It made me remember the previous chapter about Logan and how she manipulated Tara, and how if it were Logan in this situation a caring gesture might be calculated to impress Tara, but Willow does it because she cares about Spencer without any thought of impressing Tara. (Lesbians, dude, there were no pronouns that would have worked in that sentence, heh.)

I'm also glad that Tara won't take a job with Willow - that would really change the flavor and setting of this story, I think, and I love how it is.

Emms, if I chained you to your desk would you write nothing but You Make Me Smile for days on end like the Kathy Bates character in Misery? (Just kidding, of course, no need to call the FBI.)

ETA: I meant to say also that Logan's character and the way she treats Tara reminds me of a verse from a song by The Nields called "Be Nice to Me" that goes like this:

We all try to get through the day with just a little piece of happiness
And we all try to frame our face in a background of success
But we all find ourselves at the end of the day racing to undress
And the people we kick around inevitably are the ones that we love best

Chorus
It's okay to be mean to the evil people who make life unbelievable
But try to be nice to me

Anyway, that probably doesn't make a lot of sense unless you have heard the whole song but I can imagine Tara singing it.

[JustSkipIt]

Emms,
A very cute update. Ok, they aren't kissing yet but they're definitely moving forward. Logan is an astounding schmuck! I really get kind of peeved at people who hurt kids in the process of their having their heads up somewhere it shouldn't be. Sounds like she "forgets" to pick up Spencer a lot. Arrggghhh. Willow covering Spencer up was very cute. They are progressing nicely and I'm really glad Tara called. Well done.

[dorksrcool]

A freakin' awesome update! Love it lots!

Tara felt a heated point of disappointment sink into her stomach.

Lovely description!

"I try to keep her away from the places she’s most likely to encounter people.”

That is so funny! I really like how you write Anya.

Without too much thought, Willow reached for the blanket laying next to the boy and spread it over him. She didn’t feel Tara watching her from the kitchen.

Wow, that's cute and hot and sweet all at the same time. I think it's so great that Willow gets along with Spencer and seems to genuinely care about him. Obviously, Tara likes it too.

Bravo on another fabulous update. Can't wait for more!


amy

[Darth Pacula]

G'day, Emms.

Sheesh! Y'know you're on a popular story when you blink, procrastinate a little, and next thing you know, you're lagging at the rear on the feedback front.

I must admit a shameful fact, Emms; I didn't immediately twig to the receptionist being Anya. Shame, shame, shame. But I gotta say, 'Gay of the Day'? Fantastic!

“Anya’s an acquired taste…” Willow laughed and Tara smiled. “She takes some getting used to…and if she wasn’t married to my best friend I might consider firing her…as it is, I try to keep her away from the places she’s most likely to encounter people.” Willow confided.

Hmm, she tries to keep her away from the places that Anya is likely to encounter people? And yet, Anya's working at reception? Somehow, I think that plan of Will's has hit a snag somewhere.

But boo-hiss for the fears Anya put in Tara's head. Is it just me, or was Anya talking out of her arse? I got the impression that Willow hadn't been much for relationships previously, even the strictly sexual one-night-stand types. Did I miss something?

The 'oaf' scene was fun too, but the computer nerd in me must frown, I'm afraid. Was that computer's case opened up? Because otherwise, you won't see the motherboard. Not that it matters, I'm just being pedantic.

Ack! Logan! You right pillock! How could you forget to pick up your own kid! She's really not doing herself any favors, is she? If she keeps this sorta crap up, Spencer might grow up hating her.

The scene of Spencer sleeping in his contorted position on the floor, and Willow draping the blanket over him was so very well realized, Emms. I really like these small touches you add that bring your stories to glorious Technicolor life.

Finally ... yay! Tara bit the bullet and they're officially going on a date! I'd leap out of my seat and dance excitedly, but my precious dignity won't allow it. Oh, all right, I'm just afraid I'd trip and impale myself on one of my replica swords.

Stupendous work, Emms!

Cheers,
Paul.

[sacinema]

This story is so cute, everybody is so cute - except Logan. You can't do things like she did to a Kid without serious consequences in the end. Once she dissappointed him enough he might refuse to see her ever again. If that's what she want's she might get it sooner than she expects it.

It's fabulous how you manage to describe all the details and the little insecurities. I so felt with Tara's inner fight whether she should call Willow or not. And in the end she really did call in a stunning and unique way. How would you react if a beautiful woman calls you at 12.30 am and asks you out on a date? That's hot. Will that give us soon? Please.

And Spencer? Nice little boy. Someone you would expect being Tara's son. Thanks for the story and hope for the next update soon to come.

[watty]

For a moment I thought, is Tara so insecure that she believes Anya word for word and think that Willow has her pick of girlfriends? The instant association to Logan is alarming, though not surprising since a) Logan is Tara's most recent frame of reference when it comes to relationships and b) she has to think about Spencer's welfare first and foremost.

How sweet of Willow, to take Tara to Spencer's school when Logan dropped the ball; and of course Tara was able to witness how Willow cared for Spencer ... should be clear in her mind that Willow is not Logan version 2.

Lovely of Tara to call Willow up in the middle of the night. Isn't it funny how if it's someone you don't like calling you up at that hour you'd snip at them, but if it's the woman of your dreams you don't care what time it is? Very nice.
[br]

[Willow Watcher]

They're goin on a date! They're goin on a date! And there is Woo and Hoo and lots of IT'S ABOUT TIME! lol!
I love this story. Keep going please and oh update soon!
They're goin on a date!

[beanie]

HA! I liked the Anya cameo. How very . . . um, tasteful? Informative? Anywho, I'm just glad they're going on a date. When Tara was like "I'd like a friend," I was so close to bashing my head on my very hard and solid desk. I'm glad, it didn't come to that.

AND COULD SPENCER BE ANY CUTER?!?!? Could your fictional little boy be my actual son, um later in life, when I'm not in high school?

[Artemis]

Aaaaand, grudging sympathy for Logan goes out the door. Sure, she's had a rough ride, and it's tricky to own up when you've got yourself to blame for a lot of it - that's a scary thing to do, to look at your screwed-up life and admit 'Yup, that's my fault'. And I still believe her insistence to herself that she does love Spencer - but that love isn't translating into actions, and until that happens, well Logan m'dear, you deserve to be soundly whacked with a rubber chicken.

At least Spencer doesn't seem crushed by Logan failing to appear - it's sad that it's probably because he knows not to get his hopes up, but given that the world is imperfect, sometimes it's helpful to be able to shrug off disappointments like that, and just take good surprises when they come. Like Willow-time, which he seems to have taken a liking to - and Willow herself is getting on well with him too, in spite of what must be a bit of anxiety at 'dealing with son of woman I have hots for'. That's a high stress situation for her, even though nothing crisis-like is happening. Putting the blanket over him was so sweet though, and something I'm sure won't be lost on Tara.

Trust Anya to throw a giant-robot-sized spanner into the works... I wonder that Willow's first reaction on seeing that Tara had been talking to her wasn't to check what Anya had said about her in detail, and confirm-or-deny where necessary. It seems like you'd get into the habit of doing that, if Anya talked to your acquaintances often. As for Tara being reluctant to take the job, well, on a superficial level it's a pity she and Willow won't be in the same office, exchanging smiles and so forth and skipping into empty conference rooms to make out... sorry, I got a bit lost there. But Tara obviously needs to feel that she's the one making the decisions about her life on a daily basis - where she goes, what she does, what her time gets spent on - which is fair enough, and taking a 9-to-5 job would be giving that up to an extent. And it's no surprise that she values being with Spencer, and doesn't want to give up any of the time they spend together - the little guy's got enough absence-of-loved-one to deal with already. Still, perhaps some kind of work-from-home thing could be arranged? Tara has art and needs money, Willow has money and needs art - it's a good arrangement.

I'm looking forward to this date - it's adorable to see Tara give in and be impulsive

[Sandman78]

I am in awe with this story!!!

This last chapter was amazing, and I love how Tara finally asked Willow out!

“Would you like to go out with me?”

"I'd love to."

Update soon please

[histchic]

Hi Ms. Emms! I reeeeeeaallly like this story...it seems nice and light...but does mix in some heavier dramatic elements too. It hits just the right note. I love how you've captured Spencer as the quintessential little kid--so wrapped up in the now and not really aware of all the other things going on...going from "Willow, I didn't know you would be here!" to "Look at what I did Mommy" is spot on. Hope to read more soon!

Toodles, Take care.
Beth

[tarebear]

sorry i had to make another post but i couldn't edit my previous post so i can just add this there... don't really know why... anyways just wanted to comment on this...

No kiss yet...but I can definitly gaurentee one in chapter eight. I have no intentions of dragging this out past the breaking point. My aim is to make thier relationship as real as possible...and what two people could resist a kiss on thier first "date" especially if they are totally digging eachother as much as W?T?

so that does mean there will be kissage on their date? yey!

[Shy One]

Hiya Emms!

I've been away from the board for a while but came back to find
yet another wonderful fic from you.
I'm totally loving this one.

I'm so glad that Tara got up the nerve to ask Willow on a date.
I certainly hope that smoochies are right around the corner.
I just gotta have my W/T smoochies!

Please send us an update soon.
I can't wait for their first date!

Shy One

[lollipopgirl]

I read this update when it was first posted so I hope I can remember it coz I don't have time to read it again!
The little subtle flirting is so cute, just enough to let the other know what you are doing without making it overkill! Again with the little details of everything Emms, I can't get enough of them! And Anya was such a great added character!
Spencer and Willow: What a friendship/relationship they could (will?) have. Willow's development with her interaction with him is great to see!
(I'm clutching at straws at the moment of what I can remember.... Its making it tough )
The phone call was just so sweet... The questioning and then the actual call... THANK GOD she actually did it!
I love these girls, I love Spencer, I love this story and of course, I have to love the author for writing it! Can't wait for the next update (as usual)!!!!

X-Katie-X

[IamLoui]

Loved it!
Wonderful

[Emms]

Hi everyone! Sorry this update has taken so long. I haven't got replies for chapter seven finished yet, but I will...I just need a couple more days to finish them. Here's the update though. Enjoy.

[center][/center]

All Disclaimers Apply

Note: The song Willow sings is an excert from the song entitled Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac.

Note2: Here we go...


“In Logan’s defense it wasn’t all her fault. I can’t honestly say that after a few years I didn’t know what she was about…but I felt….I don‘t know… It’s hard for me to admit this, but I think I was using her just as much as she was using me.” Tara wondered what Willow was thinking. She watched the redhead’s face for a sign but Willow was hard to read.

They sat at a secluded table drinking coffee. A candle flickered in the center of the round table and Willow took note of its extraflamey’ness. Her eyes met the flame and when she lifted them again, the memory of it burned in her gaze.

Willow thought about what Tara had revealed. She thought about her own life and the number of times she had used a woman for something she felt she needed; sex, companionship, or to fill that thing that had always been missing inside her, like a hole that she‘d tried to fill with women…“I think we all use each other in some way or other,” she chose her words carefully.

Tara nodded softly. She could see what Willow meant, but she didn‘t agree with her completely. She knew it was possible to be close with someone without ulterior motives. “The one good thing that came out of my relationship with Logan was Spencer. He’s such a light. He keeps me going everyday, you know?”

“He’s a great kid.” Willow agreed. She liked Spencer very much and she could tell the depth of the bond he and Tara shared. It was more than Willow could ever hope to have.

“He really likes you a lot.”

Tara spoke as if she had read Willow’s thoughts which caused Willow to blush.

“I haven’t seen him this excited about someone in a very long time…he wanted me to ask you if you would come over and watch Mary Poppins with him again. He promises he wont fall asleep this time,” Tara laughed, recalling the conversation she’d had with her son that night while waiting for her friend Ginny to arrive.

Ginny had babysat Spencer a number of times in the past few years and they adored each other. Tara felt very comfortable leaving him in her care.

Spencer been excited to know that his mommy and Willow were going to spend time together, and Tara was glad that he was happy, but she was cautious too. She didn’t want Spencer to assume anything and then be disappointed if those things didn’t happen. He had too much disappointment in his life already just in dealing with Logan.

Willow felt the tension she‘d felt growing in her stomach a moment ago, ease. “Well, you can tell Spencer I would love to come over… any time,” Willow said, her eyes met Tara‘s and she nonchalantly raised her coffee mug to cover the silly grin she felt approaching. Had Tara just asked her on a second date?

“He’s a very schedule oriented child…he’ll probably want a time and date.” Tara smiled coyly. They were playing the game, and both knew that they were no longer talking about Spencer.

********************************************************************

Tara held Willow’s hand as they made their way to the club‘s entrance. They could hear the music from outside. Someone was singing Barry Manilow, rather badly.

“I don’t know about this, Tara.” Willow was beginning to have doubts about this next destination.

“You’ll love it.” Tara said pulling Willow along with her.

“It’s just…I can’t sing,” Willow said shyly. She stopped in her tracks just outside the entrance.

“You don’t have to sing.”

But it’s a karaoke place and singing is sort of the custom…when in Rome?” Willow was worried. She’d purposefully stayed away from anyplace Karaoke oriented her whole life…well, since college anyway, and she wasn’t feeling great about the idea of it now.

“You said it was my choice, didn’t you?” Tara smiled as she reminded Willow of the telephone conversation they’d had a couple days ago.

“Well yes…but I must say, I was under duress at the time.” Willow recalled that Tara had rendered her completely helpless the other night on the phone when they’d discussed the details of their date. She was quickly finding out that she could refuse Tara nothing…

The truth was, Willow was terrified of stages and of singing on stages in particular…she used to have a reoccurring dream that she was topless on a stage singing with the cast of CATS grading her performance.

But she had given Tara her word, and she would make good on that word…even if it meant Karaoke.

“You’ll just have to trust me, then,” Tara said smiling. She didn’t think Willow was really all that nervous, if she had, she never would have even considered making the redhead face her worst fear on their very first date.

Tara took Willow’s hand again, and this time there was a warmth that settled in her fingertips at the touch of the other woman’s hand in her own.

************************************************************************
Tara hadn’t asked her to sing anything all night, and Willow was amazed at how comfortable she had begun to feel almost from the start. Perhaps it was because they were in a lesbian Karaoke bar, and there were very few men there to make her feel uncomfortable…but mostly Willow believed it was Tara’s presence that helped to ease her fears. The blonde had kept close to her all evening, and had only left Willow’s side two times that night to take her turn on stage.

Willow hadn’t been surprised that Tara could sing. She wouldn’t have pictured a voice any less angelic for her. And Willow found that she loved watching her on the stage.

Each time, Tara had seemed to be singing only to her. It warmed Willow incredibly so. And made her feel as if she wanted to do the same for Tara.

************************************************************************

Willow held out her hand and Tara took it. Together they moved fluidly out onto the dance floor. This wasn’t the first song they had danced to that night, but it was the first slow dance they would share.

Willow felt no nervousness as she lead Tara through the crowd and easily into her arms.

There were women all around them dancing in varying stages of closeness. The band had taken over and the music played, uninterrupted.

Tara felt Willow’s warm hands around her waist. There was still enough distance between them so as not to look like they came from the Dirty Dancing screen rehearsal, but they were close enough to feel each other.

It had been years since the last time Tara had been this close to a woman and she could feel her body instantly responding to Willow. They moved together in synchrony, as if they had danced every day of their lives together this way.

The song ended and Willow reluctantly released her arms from around Tara. What she really wanted was to keep holding her, but propriety dictated otherwise. She silently wondered if Tara was feeling the same way.

*********************************************************

Tara stood with her back toward the stage. Willow had excused herself a few minutes ago to use the ladies room and Tara had taken that opportunity to order their drinks from the bar.

She was ordering two diet cokes when the music began. At first she didn’t think much of it. The music had been going all night as woman after woman took her turn at the mic. But then the words came and Tara felt a shiver race down her spine. She recognized Willow’s voice right away.

Can you hear me calling
out your name?
You know that I’ve fallen
and I don’t know what to say.

Tara turned toward the stage, slowly. Willow was holding the microphone in her hand. They made eye contact and Tara shivered again. She smiled, and Willow returned her smile.

Speak a little louder…
I’ll even shout
You know that I’m proud
and I cant get the words out.

Tara didn’t miss the meaning behind the song Willow was singing. It felt as if Willow was speaking directly into her heart with every last word.

I want to be with you everywhere…
I want to be with you everywhere…

Tara watched Willow and felt a warmth spread through her. Their eyes never left each other, even as Willow finished her song and made her way down the steps at the front of the stage.

Even the deafening sounds of clapping and whistling from the other women as Willow made her way through the crowd seemed to fade into the background as they came together.

************************************************************************
They were both laughing as they ran toward Willow’s car. It was pouring rain and they were becoming rather soaked.

“How was it?” Willow asked with a charming grin on her face; she already knew the answer. Tara stopped, and turned toward Willow. The redhead nearly collided with the blonde’s body.

“It was awful,” Tara said cutely, but honestly.

“Sooo awful,” Willow agreed, ducking her head and blushing with both laughter and embarrassment over what she‘d done. Then before Willow could say anything else, Tara was kissing her. She felt Tara’s arms wrap around the back of her neck and she opened herself to the feel of the blonde’s warmth.

In the middle of the parking lot while the rain poured down, they stood, kissing deeply.

“I’ve wanted to do that for the longest time,” Tara whispered against Willow‘s mouth. She couldn’t believe that she’d been so bold… She didn’t wait for Willow to respond, instead she released her arms from around Willow and ran for the safety of the car.

Willow didn’t move as she momentarily let the rain soak through her clothes.

TBC

[Willowtree252]

Emms that was a wonderful first kiss and a great update the closeness you are building here is deep more please

[DreamLover]

This is funny...well haven't read the update yet...but I was thinking just a few hours ago. When will Emms update this fic and I thought well it will take her a few days... because she is sick and now bamm there it is.

Ok off to read!!!!

[writerfreak]

man i wish my dates were that good. if i got kissed like that everytime i went on a date, id be in heaven. spectacularly written.



writerfreak

[DreamLover]

First off

The truth was, Willow was terrified of stages and of singing on stages in particular…she used to have a reoccurring dream that she was topless on a stage singing with the cast of CATS grading her performance.

Now that is something we all want too see...am I right ladies or what.

Emms this is great. Romantic diner...just karaoke ?? not my favorit thing. It's cute of Willow to go on that stage and sing even if she can't. It isn't about if you can't or can. She did it because she wanted to show that Tara means something....more to her then just a friend and that is worth all the clapping and whistling from all the other women. The words is what holds the love.

Tara's honestly about >>> it was awful<<< means so much. Ok you can't say it bold that will mean but if you do it in a goodway then it's perfect. Because being honestly is the most important thing in a relationship and also in a friendship.

And then the kiss wooo

Great as always.... get better so you can write more hot stuff..well just get better we need you to be better not just because of your stories...just because you are you.

ps I think I forgot to reply on CH 7 well here's a forgive me?

Henny

[caz]

Gotta go with Willow here - I also don't like karaoke (that doesn't mean I haven't done it, I was in another country at the time). But good on Willow for actually having a go!

Spencer is such a sweet kid. I Imagine that he'll have Willow wrapped around his little finger before too long!

At last - the smoochies are here! We definitely need more of these so 'bring 'em on' - please!

Caz