New Fic - Neverland

[badkitty]

So glad to see our girls actually enjoying each other's company, rather than freaking out over what to say, how to act, etc. This update was lovely, and very much needed (by us I mean, your readers, who are probably about as stressed out by those two as they are about each other...!)



And yes, thank GODDESS Tara didn't hear Willow call Xander!



Now, some general thoughts about your writing. When I started reading Neverland, from the first sentence everything became crystal clear in my mind. When I read this story I can see everything happening... it's like it all slows down and happens slowly and so vividly. I hang on every word, savoring every moment. I don't know if that makes sense, but as a lawyer I read quite a lot, most of it insufferably boring, and mostly what I see when I read are the words on the page and nothing else. You sort of gloss over words in an effort to read as fast as possible I guess. Sometimes this habit spills over with fiction.



But your fiction makes the world you write about come alive in a way that just doesn't happen for me quite often, even when I read fiction. Sometimes, for whatever reason, an author's writing style, in terms of how he or she might use description, often gets in the way for me. I had a helluva reading the Lord of the Rings, because I could never really picture Middle Earth. Of course, with Peter Jackson's brilliance, it comes alive for me in a way it hadn't before. But I don't have that problem with your writing at all. Yes, I know it's hard to compare the two (an entirely fantastical world versus San Fran as the setting for characters we all know so well) but it's happened to me quite often with more mainstream fiction - I only wish I could think of a better example. I mean, I've never even been to SF but it doesn't matter - I can still see everything so brilliantly. It's like a movie in my head, only it's vivid and colorful and alive in 72mm. Kinda like Koyaanisqatsi (only not quite so trippy ).



Well, that's enough babbling from me. I eagerly await your next update. The lone hopping banana should tell you when I grow impatient



gail

[behindhereyes]

Heather



My my... you continue to amaze and enthrall me . If this is even a small glimpse of what goes on inside your mind, I'm pretty sure that I want to spend my free time there.



You're right my rapt attention does equal Woo Hoo .



behindhereyes

Kim

"To the world, you may be one person; but to one person, you may be the world"

[JustSkipIt]

Hi there,

I like the honesty both girls express in this update. They are being very genuine with each other (if you can consider them genuine when neither is able or willing to share their feelings). Although, Tara cooked dinner and treated too? That got turned around didn't it? I mean Willow asked that they could cook together and she wanted to treat and tried to brush off Tara's money when Tara first offered but then Tara did the shopping and refused the money and did basically all the cooking (except the sauce). I'm having trouble seeing the difference in this "date" and their average evening, with the exception of Willow's openness.



It doesn't surprise me that Willow was hiding information about her work because she thought it would make Tara uncomfortable. It's a nice and thoughtful and obviously unnecessary move.



And as far as Tara's emotions about her mom, I can't imagine that Willow could ever predict them. My mother died last year and I was with her (which was a great and wonderful gift). At the time I kept saying that I could never watch The Body again. A few months ago, we were watching s5 and decided to watch it. I sat down expecting to be a basket case by the end. But you know what? It didn't seem that powerful to me. It was like: "wow, this is powerful TV but still TV. It's not real and they're not real. They all feel this pain but they are actors feeling pain." On the other hand, yesterday my sister sent me a sweater that my mom made for my niece so that Asher could wear it. I remember my mom knitting it and it has a label: "made with Love by Susi" and I started crying.



My point: self-involved as it is is that only Tara knows about Tara's emotions and her needs.



I like the update but still worry about whether the two girls are going to progress in inverse proportion to each other: Willow up and happy with Tara down and unhappy.



Great job.

MoveOn.Org

American Civil Liberities Union

Human Rights Campaign

[AmbeRocks]

hey there

read the update this morning before leaving, but didn't had time to leave feedback.

what a wonderful way to start the day, thank you!

i really enjoyed this update, i just hope it will be enough make Tara stop thinking about making Willow move out. I mean, i hope she now has at least a little bit of hope back...

and Willow is so annoying when she wonders why tara was not ok the other, and then calls xander right away.. wake up will!!!

update as soon as you can



jen

There is such a variety of well-invented things that the earth is like the breasts of a woman: useful as well as pleasing - Nietzsche

[tarawhipped]

That was sooooo worth the wait, Heather! I have to admit I was getting a little antsy, you've spoiled us with updates every 2-3 days, and then you just go off to Vegas without a thought for us poor Neverland-addicted Kittens...



Your updates are so rich, I find myself having to read them several times to catch everything, and there's always more when I re-read them. The flirting was great, but I really liked Tara's persistence in getting Willow to talk about what she does. It explains a lot (past and present), but it really seems like a major wall came down there.

Quote:

---

I don't w-want you to, hide, who you are from me because you think I won't like it

---

I hope Willow takes that statement to heart when it comes time to out herself to Tara, and admit her love. This update was such a HUGE progression in their trust and friendship, and I hope it's just the first of many good talks between them.



-Cameron

---

What should I be but just what I am? - Edna St.Vincent Millay

[ladydameon]

How did I miss this update????



I swear....I never noticed and I notice ALL the updates...



Well, well, I believe things will pick up rather quickly for Tara and Willow now.



Will Tara and Xander meet? Oh that would be funny. She would be like grrr and he'd be all ahhhh with Willow all eeeee.



What are Tara and Buffy going to talk about?



I image Tara is in a really confusing place now. She got some important answers to some very important questions. I doubt she'll think about asking Willow to move out now.



So, you gonna update soon?

ladydameon

----------------

Goddess of Violence

[LucyisXena]

Yay!! Thanks for the slightly less frustrating chapter

[Artemis]

Okay, so it wasn't strictly speaking the Hand of Xander at work (that's starting to sound like some D&D artefact) in keeping Willow up, just her own paranoia... I can understand that But it turned out well, so who cares why?



It looks like I can't actually create colours in feedback, so this will just have to be Virtual Different Coloured Feedback, kay?



I'm glad to be finding out more about two of this story's ongoing mysteries, the Day At The Park, and What Willow Does At Work. And they're intimately linked, which is just pure style. Honestly though, with all the evasiveness Willow was showing about her line of work, I was starting to wonder if her division of Suttersoft is doing the computer work on the T-Virus or something... you can imagine the Willow/Tara conversation: "So, what is it you do at work Willow?" "Oh, I help make hideous viral weapons that turn people into zombies." "...Uh-huh." "Wanna kiss?" "Um..." "It's not helping that I'm wearing glowing green lipstick, is it?" "Not really."



But no, a completely rational explanation, just in time to stop me seriously considering ridiculous explanations - great work. (Nothing can stop me casually considering ridiculous explanations, as you'll have noticed.)



So, Willow holding back on her work to keep from upsetting Tara with regards to its subject matter... totally believable. I've always thought Willow is, in the best sense, proactive in trying to be a good person - she'll always try to predict what's best to do, and do that, rather than just waiting to find out if she's making a mistake. It's a good trait, but as we see here, something that needs to be moderated with actual collecting of information. It's a basic weakness of making assumptions - you can avoid making things worse to start with, rather than messing up and trying to patch it up afterwards, but what if your assumption is wrong? After all, once she 'fessed up and told Tara what she did, the reaction wasn't what she's feared at all. I absolutely agree with Tara, by the way, if anything Willow's work could easily have a hand in saving lives from the kinds of mistakes that prevented Tara's mother, and Joyce, from getting proper treatment. But at the same time, I can easily believe it'd upset someone to be 'around' that subject day-in, day-out (as you would, living with someone who works there and who's sharing details of her work), so it's not like Willow's assumption was downright dumb or anything.



It's just a pity the way it turned out - still, we live and learn. Hopefully, what the girls will learn from this is that they're better off sharing than not.



Now, on the up side: loooove in action! (Pretend this paragraph is love-heart red.) I adored those little moments of uncontrolled staring, oh, and Tara 'dancing' Willow for a second was priceless. I hope she'll remember that nothing bad happened as a consequence of that, and their flirty chat about fruit juice.



Speaking of the fruit juice, that was so cute. I love how such a basically meaningless conversation can be so important to the two of them, not for what it means, but just because they're together and enjoying it. Talking about fruit juice That, too, I hope they both remember. (And that paragraph was cutesy pink.)



Which brings up my next point: now what? (On to lime green, the international colour of uncertainty. Why lime green? How the heck should I know what colour uncertainty is? It's probably uncertain of its colour.) Willow's on cloud nine, and talking to Xander who - unless he's just been hauled out of bed (and given what we know of his sleeping habits, he was probably hours away from going to bed anyway) - can be relied upon to reinforce Willow's positive opinion of how their 'dinner date' went. But what about Tara? She's obviously deeply affected by what's happened, and that can take strange turns, stirring up deep feelings. What will she be talking to Buffy about? Willow's work - the issues about her not communicating to Tara about it involve Buffy as well, but from what Tara was thinking Buffy's not at the same stage Tara herself is. Is she going to talk to Buffy about that? Is their conversation going to involve the dinner date more directly - is whatever Buffy says going to be buoying Tara's confidence in her chances with Willow, or inadvertently sending her into the dumps again?



Of course, we've just had a fairly prolonged period of Tara being upset while Willow was more or less stable, so I'm wondering if the Pendulum Of Heartbreak is swinging back Willow's way.



Speaking of Buffy (this would be shiny red, because my Buffy action figure has shiny red pants... hey, it can't all be sublime symbolism), this sheds new light on the relationship between her and Willow. Willow's work is obviously important to her, and she's been keeping that from Buffy to avoid upsetting her - but I wonder, how much might that have contributed to the distance between them in general? If not for that, might The Secret have found its way out by now? And The Secret, of course, has driven a wedge between Buffy and Xander, and some distance between Buffy and Willow, which is a pity - not just for the usual reasons, but because if Buffy's been through such difficult times, it might have helped to have had the two of them firmly by her side. Not that either of them would have turned her down if she asked for help, or just some emotional support, but we know Buffy - "ask for help" comes somewhere after "accessorise poorly" on her list of things she'll try in a crisis. Sigh... I want everyone to be happy now!



Just kidding... well no, seriously I'd like everyone to be happy, but then it'd be a shorter story and that'd be a terrible loss.



It is still a downer to see Xander so misunderstood by Tara. True she's got no way of knowing otherwise, but... sigh. (Just assume this whole paragraph is in depresso-blue, I think it'd lead to eye strain or something if I actually managed it.) I, too, feared as soon as Willow picked up the phone that Tara would overhear the word 'Xander' and collapse in a tearful heap on her bed. That's still a sore point though, and one which could continue to upset things, seeing as Willow just doesn't know how Tara and Buffy see Xander - if Tara reacts to a mention of Xander (as she did earlier) it's just going to confuse Willow unless she figures it out.



But with the dinner date out of the way, I'm wondering what happens now? Do Willow and Tara proceed along the road of being-friends-and-flirting-subtly (and not too subtly), and slowly build their confidence in their relationship, so that it won't be shaken by the next tiny misunderstanding that comes along? Or does the next tiny misunderstanding come along, and set everything back a few steps? Given this story's pattern... oh darn



Still, you gave us some cuteness (pink) (a lot, actually), some flirting (um, pink shading into lusty scarlet?), some hope for the future (Hope? Um... sunburst orange?), now that Tara's got a strong sense that Willow From The Park Three Years Ago is still there... that'll make whatever depressing disaster you're about to spring on us more bearable The words 'depressing disaster' firmly in morose blue.



I'm looking forward to Tara doing some painting, I think that'd be wonderful to see. And if she lets Willow in? Painting is a personal thing for her, but she doesn't want Willow shut out of that part of her life - she as much as said so at the gallery, telling her the name of 'Fillmore'. It could go a long way to assuaging her doubts about Willow's appreciation of her art, and Willow's doubts about her ability to express that appreciation - given, say, Willow on an afternoon off, just watching Tara paint. It wouldn't all be confined to a single moment where Willow would feel the pressure to say the right thing, she could just adore Tara's art, no pressure, and Tara would be able to see that... and next step, edible body paint



Again, no use for , but he's still ranting, just because he's not getting any. There's no pleasing him.



(I just looked back over this text - damn but I go on, don't I? It's all your fault for writing such an involving story. And me being this involved is even more evidence of your story-writing brilliance, when you take into account that there've been almost none of my usual instant adoration hooks - alien invasion, giant robots, Things Blowing Up (up to and including planets), armies of eldritch creatures, magic and/or more Things Blowing Up. There has been the scorching hot loving, albeit in dream sequence form, of course.)

Chris Cook

Through the Looking-glass

A Willow and Tara for every world.

[YMKA]

Hey EH You are still EH....



You ended it there??? Unbelievable....



I totally loved their dinner!!!! Okay...here is what I loved .(well I loved everything but...some lines...I'm not going to copy/paste the whole update )



-"Slip into something a little more comfortable" That was awesome ....



-Soy sauce incident, that was way too cute



-Houston we have a contact!!!! Hands on hips!!!! YES!!!!!



- Okay, Tara asking Willow directly what was her freaking problem with the work (which was my question too!) was great!!!! And Willow.....damn she's so cute and soooo adorable....awww..... That was really sweet of her not to mention her work because she thought that Tara didn't need to hear it, a decision which was based on Buffy's reaction. But Tara's right....she's not Buffy....I'm glad that misunderstanding is over!!!! phew....That was just marvelous. The talk....finally...



-O.P'd....



-Dessert and flirting....can these two be any more cuter? [no...don't answer...I know they can ]



And finally....Tara totally forgot about asking Willow to move....yeap...she's in BIG trouble....got distracted a little bit, eh?



You are going to tell us what happend in park right? Right??



Can't wait for the next update! Oh...hope ya had good time in Vegas.



Great Job! Thanks



M.

[little miss 666]

*grabs phone from Buffy*



*clears throat*



"uh...tara? Yea, hi, uh listen.....SHE'S IN LOVE WITH YOU DAMMIT!!! SHE'S ALWAYS FRICKEN BEEN IN LOVE WITH YOU!! GET A FRICKEN CLUE BEFORE YOU GIVE ME A HEART ATTACK AND I DIE!!!"



*hangs up and peacefully walks away*



- Bellie

The shape of you

Is etched inside

My bruised and somewhat sculptured mind

[Wired vixen]

Dinner...conversation.....HIPS!



All brilliant!



So really there isn't a side of Willow per say, its all one Willow trying to conceal hurtful things, which is real sweet and thoughtful and 'noble' hehe



Can't wait for more, i reeeeeeeaaaaaaaallllllllyyyyyyy love this fic!!



Stace xXx

"Um...dont mean to ruin the sexcapades...but we need the chips out there. Xanders being a chip whore." -She's my always by spikeizmine87

[hondosfirst]

Wow!!That chapter was just awesome!!I cried . laughed , did stomach flippies and yelled at willow to get off the damn phone .(but it was a false Tara will here xan and willow and get the wrong idea fear).I have to say to you that(IMHO) the part where Tara closed her eyes and asked Willow "why do you always do that?" was a major step toward where we know they will end up. It showed Willow that Tara thinks about her more then she thought. I also think the frustration on Taras behalf at the shelled Willow and the mixed signals that she is getting about Willow caring for her as more then a "friend" is finally starting to break her.(thats where my tummy flips came in!!

I can not wait till the next update...Is there a fanfic spoiler section anywhere aroud here??If not could ya start one?? Really though,all kidding aside I cant wait for the next bit!!

Rose

[WillowPowered]

Runs around like an idiot woohoo update. That's what I like to see progress.



More please.



Jill

~~~~~~~~

Willow - Say, you all didn't happen to do a bunch of drugs did ya?



My Home Page | Amber Powered | Alyson Powered



My lack of talent is more than made up for by my enthusiasm.

[Kajun]

So, you left us hanging, went on a mini vacation, and lost twenty bucks. Were you playing with Clem? You know he cheats.. right?



I should have expected Willow’s work to have some type of connection to Tara’s mom. Too much focus on the big picture to see the dots, I suppose. It’s understandable that Willow would be hesitant to discuss her work based on Buffy’s discomfort and knowing the circumstances of Tara’s mom’s death. I so *totally* get that. It’s good that Tara pressed for answers. Willow can’t expect to build an honest, loving relationship if she’s constantly walking on egg shells around Tara. Her work with medical imaging is indeed noble.. and essential. Tara’s admiration for her job gives Willow a huge confidence boost. And that will definitely help when Willow finally tells Shelia and Buffy the truth.



Yessss.. Tara sold 11 paintings!! This is a great opportunity for Willow to visit Tara’s studio while the blonde is preparing for LA and prove that watching paint dry can actually be fun-- especially if Tara is a messy painter. Hee. Oh.. I take it since both girls were stuffed by the end of dinner, the weirdness of soy sauce was actually yummy erm.. ness? I’m a bit miffed that Willow left the clean-up to Tara due to sleepiness but was awake enough to call Xander. Time she could have spent with a gorgeous blonde. Hey.. it was the least she could do after Tara did all the shopping and cooking. It seems all Tara’s Willow’s appeared during this dinner date leaving no doubt.. she is in huge, massive, trouble! Yup.. you are connecting..

Edited by: Kajun at: 10/14/04 9:25 pm

[desertgrl]

Wow! Thank you for yet again another wonderful update. I really enjoyed the interaction during dinner. Very thoughtful and sweet on both parts. This gives me hope that they will admit mutual feelings before Tara brings up moving out. Of course, knowing how much you like the angst and how well you write it, I'm sure that might not happen. Oh well, a girl can hope. Keep up the great writing.

[lea jane]

Great chapter more please. lea Jane

[Sally McFine]

I was very pleased to see Tara being persistent with Willow and not letting her get off so easily with ducking the questions about what she does for work.



This is very close to canon in that Willow thinks that telling Tara about her job will hurt Tara, so she preemptively avoids telling her about it -- just like on BtVS when Willow tries to fix or influence every situation with magic, even situations involving feelings and discomfort.



Love the parallels that I perceive here.



Vegas baby! Our board meeting for my job is going to be there in December, and I might go, but Idgie reminded me that we have tickets to see Dar Williams back near home the same weekend. I am a fool for blackjack, and breaking even is a good day. So is losing just 20 bucks. ;) But I'm also a fool for Dar and, of course, Idgie.

Edited by: Sally McFine at: 10/14/04 6:12 pm

[the hero factor]

Loved this update. Dinner went soooo well. Willow's reason for not wanting to discuss her job, trying to save Tara's feelings, that was so sweet.



Things are going so well, progress is being made and I am so excited. Can't wait to read more.



I love this story.

She danced as they say in that song - like a wave on the ocean.

[Marilda]

Hey, that was an awesome update. I mean they were actually flirting!! And they were touching hands. They sooo like each other. Hee, sometimes I get so caught up in the "will they or won't they" thing, that I forget that the outcome is pretty much set. Right? I mean, obviously they're going to end up together in the end.



I just love everything you're putting us through in the meantime. It's deliciously tortuous. Hmm, I wonder what it says about me that I enjoy that?



Can't wait for me. Please update soon.

[angel of salvation]

YAAAAAAAAAY!!!!!!!! Updateness!!

Dinner greatness!! *restrains from bouncing*

I was on a rollercoaster reading that, First it's all good for the dinner, then its all bad and 'protective' but now they're okay again, *phew* I hope.... MORE SOON!!!



Jess xxx

'You're my angel of salvation, and hope, and strength...your my multi-angel'-Jay (My baby)

.:~*My anime site*~:.

[sacinema]

I want more, I want more, yeah definitly more. Wow, you had me right from the beginning. And this fear, will Tara hear that Willow is talking to Xander? Thanks for deciding otherwise. Couldn't stand a new pain for Tara. Even if it will get to an end someday and turn for the bright side of life with Willow.



So T. forgot about asking Willow to move. She even gave not one thought. That's a good sign.



I really like your writing. Definitly one of the best stories if read on kittenboard. And I expecially love AU. And this setting is really wonderful. I only miss Faith.



Wonder what Tara is going to talk about with Buffy. Maybe grilling her for being responsibly that Willow had the feeling she couldn't talk about her work without hurting Buffy or Tara.



Please update soon. I know it's a lot to ask for, because you are so constantly writing new parts. But a little begging can't hurt. It doesn't or?



Hope everything I write is understandable because english isn't my mother tongue.

[VixenyTarasHot]

Ok, so I just got off of work.. and I'm dead tired..



But I read this a couple days ago, things are just insane, so I apologize for late feedback.

This was a really great chapter! Yay for the hands on hip thing, and the whole soy sauce incident was just hilarious. And really sweet that Tara made Willow realize she could talk to her about anything, thats a major yay



Ok, I am going to pass out now.... can't wait for more though!!



Ashleigh

[EasierSaid]

WickedReds Yes, finally over the whole work issue. Hallelujah! Xander confusion, Buffy and Shelia coming outness... all while the girls become better friends. Should be fun! Thanks!



thrilledbymaclay Thanks Elise! I'm glad you're enjoying their shared energy; that's always fun to write, them playing off of each other, affecting the other's mood.



wimpy0729 Thanks so very much. I'm very glad you thought the reason was touching, because I was worried it was going to be lame. : I totally agree, Tara telling Willow she'll let her know if she can't handle something is a huge statement. I think it lets Willow know that she can trust Tara more, and in turn trust herself to be more open and honest. Willow/Xander confusion is going to drag on I'm afraid, no quick fixes for that problem. Besides, even if Willow said "Xander's just a friend", Tara might not believe her, thinking Willow was saving face by not admitting her unrequited crush. Hope you enjoy the next update (something tells me you might).



H Finn Aw thanks and shucks. Rollercoaster ride seems to be the prevailing thought about this chapter; I'm just so glad I was able to cram all that stuff in! Work, out of the way, flirting, definitely increasing! Poor Xander indeed, but he's a good guy, he can take it (especially since he doesn't even know Tara doesn't like him!). Thanks again!



justin It seemed Willow-like to apologize for being on time, so caught up in wanting to be home that she became overly anxious about it. Glad you liked the work explanation! As for the phone calls... Tara can't overhear Willow/Xander conversation again so soon, that'd just be bad news bears, and you're right, Tara's conversation with Buffy would be much much different than Willow/Xander's; Tara not confiding the romantic aspects of the evening to Buffy. Some insight into their conversation in an update or so. Thanks!!



photographer02 Willow was so busted, and Tara didn't even realize she was busting the girl! *sigh* Thanks!



Irishgrl3 Thanks! I'm glad you think the dinner went well, and that the reason for Willow's reticence was sweet. You know, the funny thing about Tara opting against wine... the wine would probably *help*, get tipsy, admit some feelings, etc... alas, no such luck. And lots of W&T alone time, coming up (after all, Buffy out of town... no interruptions really...) And as for the phone convo, don't be scared, just good best friend chat for the girls.



UnveilTheSoulbound Very glad you liked Willow's concern! And yes, the hip-dance; also know as the touch that launched a thousand naughty dreams haha. The fruit juice flirting was fun, hope to have a lot more moments like that in future updates. Thanks!



snuggle79 Haha, dancing banana and song for the flirting! Thanks!



alysagoddess85 Those girls definitely need to spend more time together, time where they're relaxed around one another and enjoying themselves! Which is the plan for future updates, for sure. Thanks!



Grimlock72 Haha Tara can't hear them talking *everytime*. :) Glad you thought the work thing was typical Willow, was definitely what I was going for. And yes, references to the park again... it definitely made a big impression on them for sure. You're right, we don't know if Buffy gives Willow a hard time for her work... I think it's more just something Buffy is uncomfortable hearing about at great lengths, and Willow takes that to mean Buffy never wants to hear about it. Buffy is definitely a question mark in this story... how she reacts to things, and how the girls think she'll react to them is a big inhibitor/motivator for action. Thanks so much Grimmy!



littlecrazy80 Thank *you* for the amazing feedback, and aren't real conversations so great? *dreamy sigh*



starcat73 Tara did a great job of not backing down; I think she was so spun about what Willow did she had to know more, you know? Knee-jerk reaction, for sure. Tara will definitely be looking at Willow a lot closer, which will undoubtabley cause her quite a bit of concern. Question is, will she listen to that voice or follow her heart (and the signals Willow is giving her). No Tara overhearing the Xander conversation. That'd be mean to do it again so soon. ;) Thanks!



Willow18 I think opening up about the job was a huge step for Willow; just something that was eating away at her. And yes, Tara definitely has a sort of schizophrenic view of Willow; however, the line is starting to blur for sure. Thanks so much re: the art. What kind of artist are you, if you don't mind me asking (like what's your medium of choice)? And yes, Willow is a big bag o' nerves; I'm guessing her revelation won't be pretty haha. Thanks so much!



badkitty Enjoying each other's company; exactly. That level of interaction is exactly what they need in order to open up to each other, and eventually start a relationship. No Tara overhearing Willow and Xander conversations for at least the next three updates. ;) My promise from me to you *does politician sincere thumb point* And gosh, thanks so much about my writing. It's just the way it comes out; I'm just so glad you guys like it! Who knew that I had a 'style'! And Koyaanisqatsi... I have the overwhelming urge to watch a BtVS ep on fast forward now. ;) Thanks so much gail, really appreciate the kind words.



behindhereyes Haha trust me, my mind is a frightening, frightening place. Oh sure, there's lots of Willow and Tara loving, but you should see the to-do lists! (Will I ever remember to pick up my dry cleaning? Who knows!) Thanks so much Kim.



JustSkipIt Thanks so much. That's what I'm going for, them being genuine (even though the most major thing they should be honest about isn't going to be addressed for a long time). And yes! Haha, Tara did end up making it like their other nights by doing the majority of the cooking; a fact that was not lost on Willow *at all*. Definitely some fun to be had with that, I think. Willow and her work; I wanted something to show the Willow-decides-what's-best-for-others trait, get Tara's words about how that won't fly out in the open at the beginning of their budding "friendship". I think it gives confidence to both girls, having heard/said the words. I'm sorry about your mom, and know very much what you mean about grief being unpredictable. I lost someone very close to me two years ago; sometimes it feels like it happened a lifetime ago, while other times I can't even get out of bed. Tara definitely is the only master of her emotions, and Willow needs to learn I guess not to be afraid of that just because sometimes the emotions might not be neat and happy and pretty. The girls are progressing in inverse proportion, unfortunately, however Tara's choosing to lessen that a bit by not listening to the voice in her head saying Willow's off-limits as much as she has in the past. Hopefully, for every moment of angst Tara feels as they spend the next week together, she'll have an answering moment of "wow". Thanks so much, again for your always great feedback.



AmbeRocks Tara-asking-Willow-to-move-out... sadly, still in play, although you're right, Tara does have some hope now (even if she thinks it's irrationally based). As for the Xander phone call; I think that was just an automatic thing for her to do. I actually picture her falling asleep while he's talking about five minutes into the conversation (because the girl was tired, even if her mind was whirling)! Thanks jen!



tarawhipped Haha oh trust me, there was a thought when I was taking off for Vegas (I didn't even know I was going until my friends showed up to take me to the airport, tickets in hand), but there's something about that town that just... causes temporary amnesia! ;) Glad dinner was worth the wait though. And thanks re: the rich; I like stories that are layered, have a lot of stuff going on, so I'm trying to do that with my own writing. You and wimpy both nailed the biggest thing, Tara telling Willow, essentially, to trust her. Now Willow just needs to put that in action. Thanks so much Cameron!



ladydameon You missed it...? But, you're here! :D "Rather quickly..." oh dear, don't put money on that. ;) Slow, slow, slow! Tara and Xander will definitely see each other later in the story, and that about sums it up (although Willow will probably be more like "huh?"). Tara and Buffy just needed to connect, nothing nefarious there, and Tara is in a confusing place. Don't be so sure about the not asking Willow to move though... Enjoy the next update.



LucyisXena Haha, you're welcome!



Artemis *blink* *blink, blink, blink* Holy cow Chris that's some super sized feedback!! Hmmm... hope I don't miss anything... Hehe Hand of Xander, defeats Orcs, powerless against Wizards! Love the virtual different color feedback, good stuff. Haha, I like how the Day At The Park has achieved caps status. That day is linked to a lot, which is fun to explore now (and I assume will be fun to explore later in flashback). *snicker* Yes, Willow the Biological Warfare Agent would have been a twist, wouldn't it? I'm glad you described the explanation as 'rational', as I myself worried that it'd be more along the lines of 'completely and obviously manufactured'. : You're right, Willow is proactive at being a good person, and that gets her into trouble when she doesn't consider that there might be another way. Glad you liked the looooove in action, as you said haha. The juice convo is an example of what I'd like them to have moving forward, flirty, relaxed fun time. As for now what... Tara needs to decide which voice to listen to, and it's a shame that she has no one to talk to... but I think she'll make the right choice, regardless. The Buffy convo is more of a touchstone conversation, Tara just wants to connect with Buffy, not necessarily get the girl to give her advice or anything. She feels badly about Buffy still being so upset, and just wants to call; of course, nothing says she won't talk about Willow just the same in passing mention. As will come up later, Will and Xander were definitely there for Buffy when Joyce passed; it's one of those weird Scooby things, they can drift apart but still be a big part of the other's life. But Buffy is worse off then the rest, because nobody is being completely honest with her, which means she'll have a lot of information to digest once this hits the fan. As for Willow and Tara... they're definitely going to be building their friendship. That's what the next bajillion updates are going to focus on haha. And yes, some Willow/Tara studio time, coming up eventually. Whew, I now need a nap. Thanks once again!



YMKA Haha always and forever EH I'm afraid... I had to end it there! My hands and brain were tired! So glad you liked those little moments, they were very fun to write. Haha Tara is greatly distracted, but the move question will definitely still be kicking around her brain... And yes, yes, I will definitely write up the park, eventually. And thanks re: Vegas, I had a blast!



little miss 666 "Tara listened as the dial tone flooded her ear, slowly dropping the phone down to her side as she pressed the End button, the sound cutting out. Oh my god... the blonde thought numbly.... She, s-she loves me? Tara felt her limbs growing cold, the shock of the stranger's words assaulting her nervous system. Oh my god... Tara repeated, rocked to her core. Buffy l-loves me...

Aaaaaaaaaand scene. :P Thanks! (Muhahaha)



Wired vixen Haha HIPS! are great. You're right, there aren't two Willow's, just some big big misunderstandings that Tara has to wade through. Thanks so much for reading!



hondosfirst Wow, a plethora of emotion! And totally, Willow definitely has some new thoughts about Tara, and vive versa. Tara especially, I think has a lot to chew on. Haha a spoiler site? Hmm... that would be hilarious. Thanks Rose!



WillowPowered Haha yay for progress! Thanks!



Kajun Oooooh... see, I just thought the dealer had a skin condition! ;) You're right, Willow can't expect to build an honest loving relationship if she's constantly hiding who she is. Willow gets a huge boost realizing this. And yeah, Tara selling 11 paintings is great indeedy. Yes, :) the dish was yummy (really, I've made it, it's great). Haha and yes, Willow definitely realizes "the morning" after that she really should have helped out more with dinner, clean up etc. Silly things that get overlooked when the heart's a pitter-pattering. Thanks so much, great feedback.



desertgrl My pleasure! Thank you for the feedback! Sadly, I think Tara's going to bring up moving out before the mutual "I love yous"... but it'll all work out in the end, I promise. Thanks!



lea jane Thanks, and update posted below.



Sally McFine Yay for persistent Tara indeed. So needed to happen, and it's a great sign that Tara felt comfortable enough with Willow to push. Thanks for bringing up canon; I'm trying to have echos of canon in this fic, and I think Willow's propensity to "fix" things without consulting others is a big part of her character, later on. I definitely wanted to have that in this fic, and thought the job bit was a good enough way to do it. And oh man! Hmm... I'd recommend taking Idgie and some Dar Williams CDs to Vegas. Two-and-a-half-in-one with that solution. Have I mentioned they have free alcohol in Vegas? Good times! Thanks so very very much!



the hero factor Thanks, glad you thought it went soooo well! :) Progress indeed, we'll definitely see more of it coming up.



Marilda Oh yeah, these girls are sooooo getting together haha. Or I would be soooooo dead. I'm glad that you're enjoying the flirting and getting-to-know-you-ness... and I think it says that you enjoy watching people fall in love. :) Thanks!



angel of salvation Bouncy man is back! Another shout out for the rollarcoaster ride effect, nice. Thanks so much Jess, more posted below.



sacinema No Tara overhearing Willow talking to Xander, that'd just be mean to do so soon. Tara completely forgot to ask Willow to move, a fact that you know she's going to mull over the next day. Thanks, and I miss Faith to a certain degree too (although for Faith fans, check out AntigoneUnbound's "As Time Goes By"... WOW her Faith is stellar). Tara just wanted to hear Buffy's voice, I think, wanted to reach out to her friend that's still carrying around so much pain. And don't even worry about your English, I understood every word! Thanks!



VixenyTarasHot Oh girl, do I know the just-got-off-of-worked-am-so-tired blues! Thanks very much for taking the time to leave me some very kind words when you were on the verge of passing out haha. That's very cool. :) Major yay from me as well about the Tara telling Willow to open up; good times! Thanks!

[EasierSaid]

Title: Neverland
Author: EasierSaid a.k.a. Heather
Feedback: Bites lip and whispers "yes, please."
Spoilers: None.
Setting: AU. There is no Hellmouth, there is no slayer and no magic of the wicca variety. Just our girls and the rest of the Buffy characters living and loving in that great city by the bay, San Francisco.
Rating: NC-17 or hard R (you be the judge)
Disclaimer: Please don't sue me Mutant Enemy.
Notes: Bow-chick-a-wow-wow....

Thoughts in italics

PART 23

"Is this enough?"

The voice was soft, concerned, and filtered down to Willow from above through the darkness.

"Yes," was Willow's contented reply. Tara's naked thigh was pressing into her center rhythmically, and Willow rolled her hips gently to meet each movement. The room was pitch black, and as Willow turned her head to the side, she realized she couldn't see *anything*, much less an identifying marker. Where am I... she briefly thought before exhaling deeply, happily, as she felt Tara press into her again. She knew she was naked, on a bed and a very-naked-Tara was partially on top of her, straddling her left leg and pushing her center gently into the redhead's thigh. The blonde's left hand massaged Willow's hip, and the redhead deeply exhaled again. "This feels so good Tara," Willow said, the words spoken through slightly uneven breaths, a soft sigh of pleasure escaping her lips. "You feel so good." Willow turned her head toward where she knew the blonde to be, nuzzling into Tara's temple, luxuriating in the feel of Tara's full breasts framing her own left breast. It was perfect, their lovemaking slow and sweet, and Willow felt like she could go on like this forever.

It wasn't long, however, untill Willow felt Tara remove her thigh from her center and shift her weight more fully on top of her, nudging the redhead's legs further apart with her thigh. Willow complied, spreading her legs, and felt Tara settle between her thighs, the blonde on her knees, her arms resting on either side of the redhead's shoulders and holding her up off of the redhead's body. Willow looked confused for a second until she felt Tara's lips on her own, Tara's breasts on her own. She relaxed into the slow, sensual kiss and then gasped as Tara slowly dipped her lower body down and thrust her hips forward into the redhead's open core. Tara pulled back from the kiss, supporting her weight on her outstretched arms and repeated the thrust, her curls traveling through Willow's wetness and connecting with the redhead's clit.

Willow gasped again, the texture of the intimate connection catching her off guard, her clit jumping at the unexpectedly exquisite touch. Oh god, she thought, feeling the wetness trickle out of her, her inner thighs clenching in anticipation of the next thrust.

Tara repeated the action once more, pausing slightly to ask, "is this--"

"Don't stop!" Willow said, bringing her hands forward to Tara's lower back, urging the girl to continue with her movements. She heard the blonde lustily chuckle, and then grunt as she pressed into the redhead's open center again, quickly settling down into a smooth rhythm that made Willow moan and then swallow hard. The feeling of Tara's wiry curls rubbing into her clit was electric, and Willow began to rock her hips to meet each thrust more fully.

"You're so wet..." Tara breathed out as she pushed down into the redhead and Willow could only nod, her voice lost somewhere in the growing Sahara that was her throat. She felt her wetness increase, and groaned when it crossed her mind that some of the liquid trickling down her swollen outer lips could be the blonde's. She squeezed her thighs against Tara's hips and then relaxed, opening herself wider to the blonde.

As the rhythm grew a fraction faster, both girl's breath became more shallow, little grunts escaping their parted lips as they concentrated on connecting more fully with each pass. Willow moved her clenching hands to either side of her head and arched her back a bit as she stretched, her legs as wide as they would go, her breath ragged and her hips rolling faster to meet Tara's insistent thrusts. Her nipples were erect, and she felt them pulling on the skin of her breasts as they further tightened. The feeling was maddening acute, and she clumsily reached her hands down and roughly squeezed them, pulling each nipple taut to relieve some of the tension, inadvertently sending an unexpected jolt of pure arousal shooting down her slim frame, puckering her inner lips between her legs. Her breath shuddered and she felt Tara pause in her movements and pull back slightly before resuming; Willow moaned loudly as the blonde's curls were replaced by Tara's soft wetness, their clits raking over the other's with each new pass.

Each time their clits connected the girls grunted and sought more contact, Willow's hips rocking at a quick, passionate pace, Tara's ardent thrusts even and fast. Willow's throat was now completely dry, her skin covered in a light sheen of sweat, her lips ice cold. She couldn't see anything in the dark, could only feel Tara between her legs, hear Tara over her. Each of the redhead's breaths was punctuated by a soft sob as she felt her control slipping away, felt her face screw up with need. "Tara," she choked out, and the girl was on her, lowering herself until their breasts pressed and slid against each other, the blonde continuing to pump her hips, her weight supported by her forearms. Willow turned her face into the blonde's and they desperately kissed in staccato, Willow's whimpering breaths punctuating their lips' frantic touches.

Tara ground her breasts down into Willow's chest forcefully and Willow moaned, arching her back as much as she could into the contact, attempting to rub her nipples against the blonde's as they writhed together. Tara pressed her lips to Willow's and thrust her tongue into the redhead's mouth in time with the movement of her hips, and Willow groaned in response, squirming and quivering intensely beneath the blonde. I'm going to pass out, Willow thought in a flash. She was light-headed, beyond restraint and she could feel every part of her body tightening like a coiled spring; all of the energy being pulled from her various muscles to power the orgasm building in her lower belly. She felt her lower body moving of it's own volition, her hips bucking wildly against Tara's center, her feet loosing purchase on the sheets as she tried to find some support for her counter thrusts and she knew that the only thing that mattered in the world at this moment in time was coming for Tara.

She heard Tara grunt into her mouth and Willow turned proactive. She forced Tara's tongue back into the blonde's mouth with her own, Tara pulling back from her and Willow followed her into the air, lifting her head up off the pillow to maintain contact with Tara's lips. The redhead drove her tongue deep into Tara's mouth and furiously set a pace stroking the blonde's tongue, a pace which Tara quickly matched with her hips. Willow held her breath, her neck strained and suspended off of the pillow, her tongue moving with wild abandon until she needed to breathe and fell away, turning her head to the side and away from the blonde as she hit the pillow, crying out from deep within her gut while taking a low, shuddering breath.

Tara groaned and leaned down, gasping urgently, desperately, "Willow", as their breasts rubbed together. Willow grunted loudly at the sound of her name and felt the blonde's broad tongue lick the length of her exposed neck. Tara pulled back slightly, panting and said in an even more gutteral, husky tone, "Will", before repeating the action, moving quickly to suck on the redhead's earlobe. The blonde let go of the earlobe with a cry and pushed up onto her outstretched arms, using the leverage to set an even faster, harder rhythm with her hips.

"Nnnngh," Willow groaned and turned her head back forward, reaching her hands up until she gently cupped Tara's slick, swaying breasts, the blonde's hard nipples raking across the lines on Willow's palm. The redhead pushed her hands up, squeezing the blonde's breasts, the girl responding with a throaty, incomprehensible growl of satisfaction. Willow rotated her hands, increasing the pressure as she massaging the orbs and ground the blonde's nipples into her palms. Tara grunted, pressing into her center harder. Willow's legs were shaking, and she knew she was on the edge.

She abandoned Tara's breasts, her right hand sliding along the blonde's skin and gripping the girl's lower back tightly, the redhead's left hand flailing backward to forcefully grip Tara's right forearm. The grunting above her got louder, and Willow knew her body was out of control as she moved fitfully in a mad attempt to find release. Her whole body seemed fully concentrated on the effort, her ass clenching, her nipples painfully tight, her lungs almost incapable of sucking in enough air to sustain her. She needed to come, now.

The orgasm ripped through Willow seconds later, causing her to rigidly arch her back and drop her right hand from Tara's skin and grab a fist full of sheet as she spasmed and jerked, the climactic waves rushing through her entire body with surprising force, Tara continuing to press into her as she shook.

Willow's limp body eventually dropped back into the damp bed below her, and the room started to get lighter; she could hear the repetitive beep of her alarm clock getting louder. Just as she was on the verge of consciousness, Willow reached out her hand, fumbled for her alarm clock and pressed what she hoped was the snooze button before slipping back into the darkness, the morning glow receding, the beeping fading away into nothing until she couldn't see anything, could only feel her breath coming in fits and gasps, her skin on fire and Tara sliding off of her.

The blonde shifted and curled up on Willow's left side, holding the redhead tight as the she lay on her back trying to regain her breath. Tara's leg came across the redhead's hips, the blonde's left arm creating a shelf for Willow's breasts as she laid her arm across the redhead's chest, her left hand gently rubbing Willow's right arm. Willow could feel Tara's warm, wet center on her hip, as well as Tara's moist breasts on either side of her upper left arm; the redhead briefly closed her eyes and sighed, contentedly. Willow brought her left hand up from between their bodies, freeing it with a slight tug and rested it heavily on Tara's hip, weakly squeezing the girl's flesh before relaxing and languidly moving her fingertips on her skin. Tara nuzzled into Willow's cheek and kissed her softly before resting her head on the redhead's pillow. The only sound in the dark was their quickly steadying breaths.

"Oh god that was so good," Willow exclaimed blissfully after a long moment, her breath still slightly erratic yet manageable.

"'Good'?" Tara replied mock incredulously and Willow smiled.

"Fantastic. Spectacular. Otherworldly--" the redhead blithely listed before being interrupted by a kiss on her cheek.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah..." Tara whispered playfully, placing another soft kiss on Willow's cheek before pulling back a couple of inches. They settled into a comfortable, blessed silence, holding one another, feeling their skin cool as they exchanged soft caresses.

After a long moment, Willow tentatively asked, "how did you know...?"

"How did I know what..." Tara replied softly, her fingertips running up and down Willow's arm.

"That, it wasn't enough," Willow said shyly as she looked down and began to gently trace a circular pattern on the blonde's hip.

"You were coherent," Tara teased as she giggled softly and Willow smiled, turning her head briefly to face Tara's direction before turning back forward. "I don't know," Tara replied honestly, shrugging slightly. "It felt right." There was a pause as Tara considered her words. "If you ever need, more, from me, just tell me..."

Willow nodded, her moving head rustling the pillowcase. They were quiet for another long moment before Willow's brow furrowed and she squeezed Tara's hip. "Did you? I mean, do you need--"

"You didn't hear me?" Tara again gently teased, and again Willow smiled, Tara pressing her center into her hip as she squeezed her thigh around Willow's middle. Willow sighed happily as Tara nuzzled the redhead's cheek.

"I was kinda, somewhere else," Willow admitted sheepishly, the brief thought literally tickling the back of her mind. Her face immediately broke into a wide smile and she started chuckling, her thin frame shaking.

"What?" Tara asked amused, her lips almost brushing over Willow's cheek as she spoke, her left arm bouncing up and down with Willow's light laughter.

"I felt your smug little smile on my cheek," Willow replied as she continued to giggle.

"Well..." Tara replied, her tone half proud, half embarrassed at being caught. Willow rolled onto her side until they were facing one another, pushing her thigh gently between the blonde's legs, Tara hissing slightly before sighing in pleasure as they settled into each other. Their breasts pushed together, their nipples touching and Tara brought her arms around the redhead's waist, brushing her fingertips up and down her back as she held her lightly. Willow brought her face forward until she could feel Tara's breath on her lips, and then carefully brought her right hand to Tara's face, mindful in the total darkness to keep her movements slow and tentative so as to not poke the girl in the eye.

Willow smoothed back the blonde's hair as soon as she had her bearings, feeling totally at peace when she heard Tara sigh happily, the blonde gently squeezing Willow to let her know that she liked and appreciated the touch. They held each other as their breath synced, neither sleepy, fully mindful of the girl in front of the other.

"You're beautiful," Willow whispered, continuing to caress Tara's head gently.

Tara chuckled softly in reply. "You goof," the blonde said quietly, tenderly. "It's pitch black, you can't even see me."

Willow stilled the movement of her hand, cradling Tara's head and said sincerely, "I don't need to see you to know you're beautiful Tara." She felt Tara's breath catch before her arms squeezed the redhead close and Willow leaned forward, resting her forehead against the blonde's. She brought her hand forward to cup Tara's jaw, her thumb stroking Tara's cheek. "You're so beautiful..." Willow said softly, the words only spoken loud enough to reach Tara's ears. Tara dipped her head a bit and then brought her lips forward to gently kiss Willow, the redhead aware as the kiss began to turn passionate, that the room was getting lighter, the sound of a steady beep getting louder.

Willow opened her eyes and sighed, alone in her room, her body still sluggish with sleep. She reached over and turned off the alarm, and laid on her back staring straight ahead, the room lit in a gloomy gray. The bed felt too big, and she felt cold, even though she was wearing pajamas and was snuggled beneath two blankets. She sighed heavily as she pieced together the dream, putting together the timeline of the lovemaking turning passionate, the words spoken afterward cycling and imprinting on her conscious memory. Willow sighed again and quirked her eyebrows, feeling the cool wetness between her thighs, the evidence of her dream's erotic effect.

The first half of the dream had been... amazing. Willow pulled herself out of bed grudgingly and groaned slightly as her legs pushed her still swollen outer lips together, a reminder of just how real the dream had felt. But then, being with Tara was always amazing. Dream Tara, Willow corrected, although she knew deep down inside that it would be just as amazing with the flesh and blood blonde. Even if Tara didn't know where to touch her right away, Willow knew the girl would learn, and she knew she would be more than happy to show the blonde how to love her. Tara was just so sensual; the way she did anything, be it cooking, walking, pursing her lips... Willow knew the girl would be a fantastic lover. Besides, it wouldn't take much if Tara ever did touch her that way... she'd be so ready, she wouldn't be surprised if she came from a simple embrace. If only... god, if only... she thought as she grabbed two towels and walked to the bathroom.

It hadn't been like that with Oz, Willow thought as she made her way into the shower, drowsily rubbing the warm water into her skin. The sex had been good with Oz, most of the time, and he always tried to please her, although sometimes with varying results. It had never been, passionate, wild though. Desperate sometimes, needy, but never... Never like how I *know* it would be with Tara... how *I* would be with Tara... The redhead had never dreamt of Oz like she did Tara, had never imagined him turning her into a bucking, sobbing mess like she did with Tara... had never spent her afternoons at work uncomfortably shifting in her seat wishing she could just go touch herself because of daydreamy Oz-thoughts.

Willow washed quickly, dried off and returned to her room, tossing her underwear into her hamper and placing her pajamas on her bed. She moved to her computer, woke it with a click of the mouse and moved to check her weather menu. "Great, sweater weather..." she grumbled as she moved to her closet, tossing her towel into the hamper along the way. She quickly dressed, the dream cycling through her mind the whole time. The lovemaking, the way Tara so obviously needed her, her overwhelming climax... it had been so hot, so sexy, so charged. So why wasn't she obsessively thinking about *it*, like other mornings?

Because she was fixated on a different part of the dream, Willow admitted to herself. The feeling of Tara's arms lightly resting around her middle, the blonde's fingertips dancing along her skin as they held each other and breathed in time. Willow closed her eyes for a moment, remembering the feeling, and shook her head, disappointed, when that phantom touch faded. That quiet, intimate embrace was going to haunt her all day, those brief touches, the murmured, playfully affectionate words. It was going to haunt her because that's what she wanted from Tara most of all. The sex, the incredible passion... she wanted that too, but more than anything, Willow knew she wanted to hold Tara close, fully clothed in a turtleneck even, and tell her she thought she was beautiful.

Willow dried her hair and slipped on her shoes, carrying her bag and laptop downstairs. Faintly feeling the echo of Tara's arms around her made her feel... lonely. Kinda sad. Her heart ached and she fought the foolish urge to skip work, wait for Tara to wake and ask the blonde for a hug. The blonde's temple on her cheek, her soft body pressing into her, Tara's arms snaked around her waist... Willow frowned and sighed, trying to slough off the weight of what she didn't have. She placed her bag and laptop on the counter and eyed the french press. She quirked her lips, and moved to the secretary table where she picked up her keys and put on her jacket. She then walked out of the apartment, leaving her bag behind as she shut the door softly behind her and headed out into the morning fog.

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

Tara woke at around 9 and went through her morning routine, visiting the bathroom before heading downstairs for a breakfast of coffee and fruit. She frowned as she entered the main room and saw a box on the kitchen counter next to a cup of... coffee?, and a note. She made her way to the trifecta curiously, recognizing Willow's handwriting as she got closer. What...

"Tara,
Because you wouldn't let me do the dishes last night, breakfast from Katz (you'll probably want to heat up the latte, unless you want a cold latte, which you might and that's fine, cause that's good sometimes too)."

Tara smiled, clearly hearing the redhead's babbling voice in her mind as she read. She shook her head, amused, and returned her attention to the note.

"I was thinking, maybe, if you weren't too busy, we could have dinner tonight (my treat). We can go out and try that new Thai place that opened by the BART station, or if you knew of another place that would be good we could go there instead. I'll be home at 6ish; hope you're free."
Willow"

Tara frowned and opened the box, smiling when she saw the blueberry bagel and tiny package of cream cheese inside. She chuckled softly, remembering how she had told the redhead a month before that bagels should always be sweet, preferably with blueberries. She remembered... Tara thought, amazed as she shook her head and looked over the note again. Dinner, at six. The blonde bobbed her head thoughtfully and picked up the latte, walking around the counter to stick it in the microwave for a few moments. She sighed as she pressed the start button, and leaned her hip against the cool marble as she waited for the 40 seconds to pass. Of course I'll be free... Tara thought, equal parts ecstatic and dreading. Of course I'll be free...



Edited by: EasierSaid at: 10/15/04 7:44 pm

[JustSkipIt]

I'm first



Now to read...



Well, I'm truly terrible. I get the first flag and then it takes me another 20 hours to get a reply posted. Of course, that's what having a 9-month old will do to your Kitten schedule.



When I started reading, I was like "no! not again Heather." The sex part of the dream was very nice and intense but the aspect that made me forgive you for another sex dream (God! Lucky Willow for having sex dreams so frequently) was the part when she hit the snooze. I love that she made a (at least semi-)conscious decision to return to her dream for snuggles. That was lovely and wonderful. Yay for snuggles and for the things that Willow's dreams seem to be revealing to her.



I like that she left Tara breakfast and wants to have dinner. It's nice and at the same time, so clearly will torture Tara. I wish that Willow knew because if she did, she would certainly come clean to avoid hurting Tara. At the same time, I'd think that a programmer (and MIT grad) could create a flow-chart: Tara likes me vs. Tara doesn't like me. Then given that a. Tara doesn't date straight girls and b. she believes me to be straight... ergo if she likes me, this must be very hard on her. If she doesn't like me, then what's the use anyway?



At least no matter how they do, they're having Thai! I love Thai food so I'm happy for them (which is pretty silly since they're fictional characters eating a fictional meal...). Oh well, silly me.



Well done.



Editing again... I just reread again (yes, hoping for an update this morning). What I'm finding curious in this update is Willow's thought pattern re: Tara's expected prowess as a lover. Nowhere do we detect any nervousness on Willow's part regarding her own abilities. If I were in her position -- a newbie wanting to make love with an experienced (or she assumes experienced) lesbian, I'd be more uneasy regarding my own abilities. But she doesn't seem to be worried about that. Hmmm...

MoveOn.Org

American Civil Liberities Union

Human Rights Campaign

Edited by: JustSkipIt at: 10/18/04 5:34 am

[Marilda]

Just finished. First thought: It's officially started. This is it. Denouement here we come. Relationship here we go. I am so freaking excited!



Can you update again? Like right now?





Or, you know, as soon as possible.



I can't get enough of this story. It's official you've become my dealer.

[ladydameon]

what? Tara is going to ask Willow to move out? But but they are doing so well....



And what is with the short update? And its only smut!! Where's all the yummy stuff?



Okay, I'm going to bed now......



I do love your style and look forward to an update...

ladydameon

----------------

Goddess of Violence

[UnveilTheSoulbound]

wow... update... goodie...

Quote:

---

but more than anything, Willow knew she wanted to hold Tara close, fully clothed in a turtleneck even, and tell her she thought she was beautiful.

---

...hold Tara close...



oooh.. oooh.. i want to tell Tara more than ever she has nothing to dread about...



update soon... please!!! please!!!

**Cail**

To Love is to receive a glimpse of Heaven-- Karen Sunde

Love isn't a decision. It's a feeling. If we could decide who we loved, it would be much simpler...But much less magical... -- Trey Parker and Matt Stone

[tarawhipped]

Wow...Heather...uhhh...update...yeah...umm...



Okay, seriously, the first part of this was VERY droolworthy. I can only imagine how hot it's going to be when it's real! And then it just got better--first of all, Willow actually staying asleep long enough to...ummm...finish? And her reaction to the dream, recognizing that it wasn't just the sex, but the snuggles...



And then Willow bein' all with the sweet thoughtfullness, and basically asking Tara out on a date (whether either of them know it or not). YAYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!! I'm just so freaking happy.



-Cameron

---

What should I be but just what I am? - Edna St.Vincent Millay

[WickedReds]

OOoooo dream smut.... That was hot... i got shivers from it... and now i need a cold .... and worthy... more please... i hope the next dinner date gos good... update soon...



-reds



my banana dances for smut

Smutbunny Anthem: *sung to tune from Goldfinger* Smutbunnies...they'e the bunnies, the bunnies that love the smut...and Willow's butt. They surf for smut fiction...always lookin' for the next naked sweaty fix...of Tara's tits.- Written By Cameron(tarawhipped) For Us Smut Bunnies