Cinderella: The Alternative Tale (updated 23rd January 2007)

[Tues]

Darned - I have to actually go do something before I can leave appropriate feedback! Let's just call this a placeholder for now....

ETA: Ok back now.

Are we still all enjoying it? I do hope so.

Heck ya! Like I said before, love the interaction between the girls (chapters 1 & 2). I much prefer 'Henry' to 'Charming' as well. And, I'm digging this outspoken Willow whether she's disagreeing with her father, running around unladylike, or simply stating she's found her soulmate.

So, yeah, definitely enjoying and then some, looking forward to more.

[Artemis]

They really did name him 'Charming'... poor guy At least he's amenable to the idea of being ushered towards his soulmate, that should simplify matters somewhat.

Willow's kind of grumpy first thing in the morning Good thing Tara's cuddles put her in a good mood before going to be presented to Charming - she might have taken Ira's head off otherwise.

[kindagay]

Hello sweet kittens,

I have update-y-ness. Now, this chapter, kinda ended up being different to how I'd planned it, 'cos, in the processof writing, it seemed to just, take on a life of it's own & started writing itself. However, I am rather pleased with how it's turned out, so, yay! for update's that write themselves

Okay, a quick, big Thank You to everyone who left feedback for chapter 3 - I promise I'll be back later with individual replies.

& so, without further ado, I give you...

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Chapter 4

For lunch that day Willow had requested a picnic by the lake for herself, Tara and Elizabeth and they all now sat on a large soft blanket of finely woven wool; feasting on freshly baked bread and fine pastries, boiled potatoes, various cuts of meat, a selection of cheeses and fresh fruits from the orchard.

“You mean to say that Cinderella is Prince Charming’s soul mate? That is perfect Nurse; we already know exactly where she is.” The princess effused excitedly about this latest development, hardly daring to believe how wonderfully things seemed to be turning out.

The Princess and her Nurse spoke at great lengths about Cinderella and Prince Charming; discussing what would be the most effective methods of ensuring that the two fated lovers would meet and fall in love. Tara however remained unusually quiet, seemingly lost in her own thoughts. This did not go unnoticed by either Willow or Elizabeth, both of whom made various attempts to involve the young girl in the conversation, but to no avail.

“Tell me what is troubling you my dove?” Willow enquired tenderly as she stroked her thumb soothingly along Tara’s forearm.
“I am worried that Donald will be most disappointed by this information, he has always been so very fond of Cinderella.”

Elizabeth’s heart melted at how close her children were, since the day Tara was born Donald had devotedly cared for his baby sister and sheltered her from harm; and as soon as Tara was old enough to make herself heard she had protected and stood up for her brother with the same intensity.

“There is no need to worry about Donald my child, one day he shall meet his princess just as you met yours.” Elizabeth assured her daughter with a knowing smile.

Willow and Tara’s gazes met shyly and the girls shared a deeply affectionate smile, which Elizabeth took as a signal to leave the two youngsters to enjoy one another’s company. She gave a quick excuse and exited the picnic area with the feeling that even if she had stayed her daughter and the princess would not have registered her presence for the fact that they were so very lost in each other.

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Today was not at all the first time that the princess had gazed upon her companion, in fact, over the years she had found that studying Tara’s great beauty was, without doubt, her most favourite pastime and as such, Willow had dedicated her life and her studies to trying to capture Tara’s beauty.
She had learnt to play the piano in order that she might depict Tara’s beauty in melodies; she had studied poetry in an attempted to encapsulate Tara’s beauty with words; she had even spoken at great lengths to the gardener in hopes of some day cultivating a rose that would be as beautiful as Tara. Sadly, none of her attempts so far had done any justice to the source of inspiration; however the Princess was not completely deterred from her mission, her latest venture was art and Willow felt sure that she would be able to replicate Tara’s beauty in charcoal and paints.

“May I draw you my dove?” Willow enquired enthusiastically.
“Draw me? Why ever would you want to draw me my sweet?”
“Because the only reason I pay attention in my art lessons is so that I am proficient enough at drawing to produce a true portrait of you.”
“I do believe that I shall never understand why it is that I inspire such creativity in you my princess. I suppose, if it will help you with your lessons, I can hardly refuse you, not that I could ever refuse you anything of course, my sweet.”
“Oh how wonderful, thank you Tara, I shall fetch my easel and charcoal at once. Stay right here my dove, you look simply breathtaking with the sun reflecting off the water to shine on your face so prettily.”

Before Tara even had a chance to timidly thank the princess for the compliment, Willow had hurriedly ran off towards the castle in order to collect her drawing materials. She almost stumbled and broke her easel in the course of the journey, so keen was her haste to return to Tara, who was still sat beside the lake as per Willow’s request.

The tip of Willow’s tongue peeked between her teeth as she concentrated intently on the first feint strokes that she made with carefully considered precision on her blank canvas. Tara remained compliantly still so that the sunlight would shine on her face just so, which took a great amount of self restraint as she resisted the urge to giggle at the princess’s adorable focused expression. Once Willow felt confident about the markings being made by her charcoal, she fell into a comfortable patter of conversation, telling Tara all about that morning’s encounter with Prince Charming’s mother.

“Did I tell you what Queen Gertrude said about me? She is a ghastly woman. I wish I had had the foresight to put maggots in her sandwiches; that would have amused me to no end. She was complaining about my hips; I do not have child bearing hips, ha, can you imagine? Me? Having a baby? It is quite preposterous. A poor specimen that is what said that I am, a poor specimen! She should take a look in the mirror some time; she is no great beauty herself. Tara, do you think that I am beautiful?” Willow enquired with a small pout.
“More beautiful than I could ever describe in words my sweet. Never mind what Queen Gertrude said, she is just a horrid, bitter old woman. What was the prince like? Is he horrid like his mother?” Tara enquired attentively, making sure not to move too much.
“No, he was not horrid. You should have come to meet him my dove, he was quite pleasant, for a prince that is. I could not imagine having to spend any significant amount of time with him though.”
“I would have been far too timid to speak to him. He looked rather handsome, do you not think?” The smallest hint of insecurity caused Tara’s voice to waver for, although she knew that Willow was fond of her, she could not be sure that the princess’s feelings were completely akin to her own.
“I dare say that I would not have noticed if he was. I would not know a handsome prince from a frog, and I am equally averse to both.” Willow’s nose scrunched up in disgust as she spoke of the slimy creatures that she detested so much.
“You are quite adorable my princess.” Tara smiled affectionately, much to Willow’s delight.
“Oh, that is perfect; please hold that smile for a moment.”

The princess took an extended moment to study Tara’s half smile in meticulous detail, before hurriedly, yet accurately, sketching a few tentative lines around the mouth area of her portrait.

“There, you can relax now; I just needed to capture that endearing smile that I love so much.”
“Y-you love m-my smile?” Quite forgetting that she was supposed to be sitting still, Tara dropped her head in order to hide behind curtains of golden hair; seeing this, Willow set her picture aside and moved to sit beside Tara.

“Please don’t hide your face from me my dove.” The princess requested tenderly, smiling brightly as Tara pushed her hair behind her ears and away from her face. “I love everything about you Tara.”
“Th-thank you princess. I, I love everything a-about you also.” Tara gazed upwards shyly and Willow was sure that she had never before seen the girl look quite so alluring.

“Tara...?” Willow spoke boldly, as if with the intention to speak further, but instead she faltered, looking away slightly as her resolve faded.
“What is it Willow? Is everything okay?” Tara couldn’t help but worry; it was not often that Willow became nervous about anything.
“Tara, I wish to ask you something but, I am afraid that you may deny me my request.”
“I have never denied you anything my princess, why should I begin to do so on this day?”
“I would, uhm, that is to say, if it would be acceptable, I mean, if it would not cause offence, I would very much like it, uhm, if you grated me permission to, to kiss you?”

The princess held her breath as she tentatively waited, with hopeful eyes, for Tara’s response.

“Yes, please.” Tara sighed softly, almost swooning at the princess’s request.

Willow leaned forwards ever so slightly, but needed just a little extra reassurance.

“Are you sure?”
“Oh yes.”

It seemed to take an eternity before Tara felt Willow’s warm breath softly caress her lips. When mere millimetres remained between them, both girls took the opportunity to quickly moisten their lips and as a result, it was the tips of their tongues, and not their lips, which met initially. They remained completely still for one delicious second as jolts of pleasure washed over them, dancing down their spines to settle warmly in the pits of their stomachs. With gentle reluctance two tingling tongues were slowly withdrawn and two pairs of honey lips met with a soft, eager intensity, the likes of which neither girl had ever experienced before.

The magical moment lasted somewhere between an eternity and no time at all before the instinctive need to breathe forced them to part far too soon.
Their hearts raced; their breathing came in short, shallow gasps which merged in the small space between them and they found assurance in the subtle way that their noses rubbed gently together in cute little “Eskimo kisses” – which the girls had learned of from a book they had once read together about far away lands.

“Willow, uhm, may I kiss you now?” The question was redundant but politeness prompted Tara to ask, despite the fact that she had no intention of waiting for an answer.

Lips pressed together much more confidently than the first time; as any small doubts which had existed previously were now long forgotten; and before long the second kiss rolled into a third, and eager tongues were brought tenderly into the mix as soft hands caressed softer cheeks and wandering fingers tangled lightly in flowing hair.

“That was nice.” Willow smiled dreamily, her hands resting lightly on Tara’s shoulders in order to keep her near, not that Tara had any plans to go anywhere.
“That was much nicer than just nice my princess.” Tara chuckled softly.
“I would very much like to do that again, preferable very often and very soon.” The princess’s tongue peeked out cutely as she gave a sassy grin and leaned in to capture Tara’s lips once more.

A small myriad of innocently soft, sweet kisses followed, both girls safe in the knowledge that nothing on Earth made more sense than this simple act of intimacy.
In time the two girls settled peacefully and contentedly into a warm embrace, resting safely in each others arms, their fingers absently tracing patterns over the palms of one another’s hands as they gazed up into the clouds.

Tara caught sight of the disregarded canvas on which Willow had been sketching, before they had been distracted by kisses.

“You appear to have abandoned your portrait my sweet.”
“Yes. I have concluded that you are unique my dove, I rather think that God did not intend for you to be replicated. I believe that when He made you, He gathered all of his angels and told them ‘this is my masterpiece; my greatest work and no creature shall ever be able to replicate her for nobody and no thing shall ever be able to comprehend her beauty.’ And then he sent you down to Earth and every man, woman, child, animal, bird and insect which sees you, knows that they have truly been blessed and honoured to be allowed to gaze upon God’s greatest work.”

It was at that very moment, as Willow’s sweet, sincere words washed over her, that Tara knew; no matter how many princes came along, no matter how many ridiculous schemes King Ira proposed; Willow would only ever have eyes for her, just as she would only ever have eyes for Willow. For every moment in their lives, they would belong together, in every conceivable sense of the word.

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Yay! for kissage

Hugs
Jeanne

[k-prime]

It was at that very moment, as Willow’s sweet, sincere words washed over her, that Tara knew; no matter how many princes came along, no matter how many ridiculous schemes King Ira proposed; Willow would only ever have eyes for her, just as she would only ever have eyes for Willow. For every moment in their lives, they would belong together, in every conceivable sense of the word.

*swoon* Wow! I've been enjoying this story, finding it to be an interesting take on a classic love story, but that bit of writing is incredible. You really managed to capture what we all see when we watch the two of them together. Perfect.

[Emms]

WOO! Update!

*scampers off to read*

ETA: *dreamy sigh* Ahhhhh kisses...that was so incredibly sweet! And it was cute how Willow was all shy to ask. I had faith that Tara would not say no.

So....prince charming and Cinderella, huh? What a great Idea. And they already know where she lives. it's perfect.

Jea, this chapter was so perfect. You have such a gift for fluidity and dialogue and I greatly enjoyed that Willow and Tara had some alone time. They are so sweet together.

Right before their kiss I had found myself wondering if they had ever kissed before. Was this their very first kiss? I'm only asking because throughout the whole story they have seemed so comfortable with the fact that they have these type of feelings for each other...so I guess I just assumed that they had kissed at least once before. Either way, first or second or whatever the kiss was simply yummy and you have such a flare for the romantic.

well...I should probably stop babbling now.

xoxo
Emms (Jea's #1 fan)

[will]

Awwwwwwww that was so cute.

[eirnlove]

I rather think that God did not intend for you to be replicated. I believe that when He made you, He gathered all of his angels and told them ‘this is my masterpiece; my greatest work and no creature shall ever be able to replicate her for nobody and no thing shall ever be able to comprehend her beauty.’ And then he sent you down to Earth and every man, woman, child, animal, bird and insect which sees you, knows that they have truly been blessed and honoured to be allowed to gaze upon God’s greatest work.

wow... just wow.

[sacinema]

Just two words: So sweet.

[Candleshoe]

I wish I had had the foresight to put maggots in her sandwiches;

Made me laugh, and gave me naughty ideas for my boss.

The princess held her breath as she tentatively waited, with hopeful eyes, for Tara’s response.

Made me hold my breath too.

nothing on Earth made more sense than this simple act of intimacy.

Made me cheer out loud - maybe I read too much into it, but I love a good subtle political point.

For every moment in their lives, they would belong together, in every conceivable sense of the word.

Made the tears well up.

Lovely....

[kindagay]

Hello kittens,

Well, it's taken me slightly longer than I had hoped to get back with feedback replies - I had a slight problem with my internet connection - but, I'm here now with many, big thank yous for everyone who left feedback for chapter 3.

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Missocki: Heehee, bouncy guy - I do enjoy the bouncy guys

What the HELL?!?!? Not great beauty? That Queen needs to get some glasses! And rude much? In the words of the extremely prettyiful Willow "RUDE-O!"

Agreed. Yeah, Queen Gertrude's not so nice, but, with a name like Gertrude, it's hardly surprising

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Irene: I'm glad the update made you happy sweetie.
Yeah, Prince Charming is nice - I considered making him not nice, but then, Cinderella wouldn't have wanted to marry him, & that would have been bad.

So Willow and Tara are aware of the love they have for each other?

Kinda, & well, if they weren't then, they certainly are after C4

Why was Tara hiding? Is there a little hint of insecurity?

Hopefully, I cleared that up in C4.
& yay! for update dance

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caz:

This is way better than the Disney version and it includes our girls - bonus!

Aww, how sweet of you to say Thank you

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Willow~Rosenberg: I'm glad you're enjoying my story.
Hopefully C4 slightly cleared up your enquiries about the spell.

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Candleshoe: I'm glad you're still enjoying & yay! for Amberdale - if only we could all live there.

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Emms:

I read this story-- your updates, and I am instantly transported into a magical realm of romance and white horses. (okay, so maybe not so much with the white horses...but the romance...Ahhhh the romance

Aww, that's so sweet. & I'm sure there could be white horses in the future.

You say the story must progress and that it cannot be sustained on sugary Willow/Tara moments alone??

Indeed, & there was lots of W/T stuff in C4 - that makes up for the lack of such in C3 right?
& also, my dove is not funny - it's sweet & romantic, so there

I think you are doing a spectacular job with this story...it's so engrossing and shiny!

Heehee, I like that, I think that should be my tagline "Read Cinderella - it's engrossing and shiny!"

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Kaia: Thanks for the fb, I'm happy that you're enjoying it.
I'm glad you like how Willow & Tara relate to each other. Heehee, that sounds like a jolly image of King Ira - it's good to know that I inspire such a cute image

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mole: Heehee, fics are way more important than homework.
Thanks for your sweet words.

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TuesBlu: Yay for people still enjoying my story & I quite enjoy this Willow too.

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Artemis: Yep, poor Charming, it's really not the best name in the world is it? Yeah, matching Charming & his soul mate will be slightly simpler, but, by no means without problems - we can't have it being all straightforward now can we?
Yeah, grumpy Willow in the morning, but thankfully, Tara snuggles can make even the grumpiest Willow happy.

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Okay, that's all the replies done, I hope you're all enjoying chapter 4.

Hugs
Jeanne

[Tues]

Awe gee, I really wanted to get in another little feedback before you posted any reply. Ah well...

Yay! for kissage

And lots of them! This is quite the romantic fairy tale you've fashioned.

[Artemis]

Awww! I love the sweetness and innocence of Willow nervously asking Tara if it's okay to kiss her. And Willow's very lyrical admission of her failure to capture Tara's beauty in painting, or poetry, or music... if Tara hadn't already had her heart melted, that would've done it for sure. I so like the idea of Willow continually working on it though, so I hope she doesn't give it up completely - even if she'll never succeed, they both seemed to enjoy the process nonetheless, and it's nice to see this artistic side of Willow.

[Useful_Oxymoron]

Aw, what a sweet . Perfect!

And queen Gertrude... well, the name says it all, doesn't it? Willow's got lovely hips, geez.

“Yes. I have concluded that you are unique my dove, I rather think that God did not intend for you to be replicated. I believe that when He made you, He gathered all of his angels and told them ‘this is my masterpiece; my greatest work and no creature shall ever be able to replicate her for nobody and no thing shall ever be able to comprehend her beauty.’ And then he sent you down to Earth and every man, woman, child, animal, bird and insect which sees you, knows that they have truly been blessed and honoured to be allowed to gaze upon God’s greatest work.”

You melted an atheist's heart here, you know? Lovely scene. But, hm, let's just call Tara the crowning glory of the evolutionary process, no?

[WannaFriendsBe]

Hey honey,

Just had to post to tell you again how much I love this story. I know you've been working on an update for TRD while you're taking a little break from this lovely alternative to the Cinderella story.... But it's been quite a battle with writer's block hasn't it sweetie?

Will it help if I remind how much everyone loves your stories? Plus, I'm right here where I'll always be to help, encourage and cheer you on.

I miss this story so much and I know I'm not the only one all with the missing! So please write us a wonderful update soon - as always I'd love to beta for you

So update soon? Here's some encouragement ->

ILYP

P/S - sorry to everyone who may have thought this was an update & thus got disappointed. I just wanted to give my sweetie some much needed encouragement.

[tarebear]

hey jeanne...

i have read through your newest story and i absolutely love it! wow... i have no words right now... i really love your concept here.... a kind of like the true story behind how prince charming and cinderella really ended up together. and you definitely know how to tug the romantic in us...

But it's been quite a battle with writer's block hasn't it

hope you're doing okay... and please no need to hurry up on the update... we can wait for the muse to give you inspiration... and i'm sure the update is gonna be worth the wait...

Will it help if I remind how much everyone loves your stories?

yup! definitely! right guys?

[Candleshoe]

I certainly love your stories...

[kindagay]

Hello kitties
How are you all?

I have an update - yes yes, I know, it's been two months, don't all faint from shock now.

I think I'm gonna forego full replies to feedbacks this time, if nobody minds? But I am gonna say a very brief, but very big Thank You (& a flower) to everyone who did leave me feedback for chapter 4:

k-prime - ;
Emms - ;
will - ;
eirnlove - ;
sacinema - ;
Miss Shoe - ;
Tues - ;
Artemis - ;
Irene - ;
Useful_Oxymoron - ;
WFB - ILYB-d ;
tarebear - .

All of your support & enthusiasm means the world to me.

And now, on with the update...
[center]
(Now affectionately known as TWinderella - thanks to my incredibly cute girl .)[/center]

Chapter 5

“Father, I wish to attend Prince Charming’s ball.”
“I beg your pardon?!”

Willow’s statement came quite out of the blue and King Ira almost had to sit down rather heavily onto a chair, until, that is, it occurred to him that he was already sitting down, at which point he considered standing just so that he could sit back down rather heavily, but he decided that that would have been a pointless waste of energy.

“Well, of course you do.” The King quickly tried to cover his initial shock. “All Princesses wish to attend grand balls, and of course it is essential that you do attend, to ensure that your marriage goes ahead as arranged.”
“Yes, quite. I do however have certain conditions.”
“Yes of course, anything you wish.”
“Firstly, Tara shall accompany me; my Nurse shall escort us, so there is absolutely no need for you or mother to attend; and Alexander shall drive the coach.”
“The stable boy? We have a perfectly good coachman Willow, I shall not entrust that, that boy with my best coach and horses.”
“Then you should send word to Queen Gertrude that I shall not be attending the ball.” Willow turned on her heel and began to walk away, at which point King Ira realised that he had been backed into a corner, he had no choice but to acquiesce.
“Wait, Willow, there is no need to be so hasty.” Willow stopped, but kept her back to her father until he had said his piece. “Your demands are acceptable; Alexander may be your coachman for the evening.”
The princess grinned to herself, finally turning to face her father once again, with one final request.
“And Tara shall need a ball gown.”
“Of course, I shall have clothing made for both yourself and Tara.”
“Thank you father.”

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“Father agreed to everything, I feel that our plan shall work out perfectly. Tara, my sweet, you are to have a new gown and shoes, and you may wear any of my jewels also. You shall look so very beautiful; in fact I dare say that you will look more like a princess than I.” Willow skipped merrily around her room, gushing about her most favourite topic – the beauty of Tara.
“If only you could conjure quite so much enthusiasm about your own gowns and shoes princess.” Elizabeth chuckled good naturedly.
“Gowns do not look beautiful on me nurse, they look awkward and uncomfortable.”
“I think that you always look beautiful, Willow.” Tara commented adoringly, her face lit up with a genuine, devoted smile.

At that moment, Willow wanted nothing more than to brush her lips softly against Tara’s warm smile, and had Tara’s mother not been present, she would have acted on that desire without a second thought. Instead, however, she replied with a heartfelt “Thank you”, and made a mental note to kiss Tara at the first available opportunity.

“Well, I shall say this, it is rather refreshing to see you so happy about a visit from the dress maker; the prospect usually sends you hiding beneath your bed.”
“It shall not be so much of an ordeal if Tara is there also. Nothing is an ordeal when Tara is there.” The princess smiled as Tara looked away shyly, and a second kiss was added to her prior mental note.

A gentle tap on the door interrupted the conversation and Mister Giles, Willow’s tutor, entered the room.

“So sorry to interrupt, it is however time for the princess’s history lesson.”

Willow gave a groan of displeasure, of all of her lessons she detested history the most.

“Come princess, I shall join you.” Tara proposed, extending her hand to Willow, who eagerly accepted Tara’s offer.

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“Your father’s great-grandfather’s second cousin defeated the rightful heir to the throne of a small island in the far east, making him the first of your family to rule over a foreign country. Of course, his son and heir was over-thrown after only one years rule. Actually, that is quite an interesting story…” Mister Giles droned on about matters which, although they had occurred many years before his own birth, he – for reasons which were completely unclear to the princess – found terribly interesting and exciting.

“Is something troubling you my dove?” Willow whispered when she noticed that Tara was concentrating on the lesson less than herself.
“I am fine my princess. It is just that, I do wish that I really was attending the ball with you.” Tara mused longingly, as she sketched a rough outline of two girls dancing closely together in the bottom corner of her writing pad.
“We shall attend many future balls together my dove, I promise. I may even host one in your honour, if you wish?”
“I hardly think that I deserve a ball Willow, besides, how ever would you convince your father to agree?”
“Father would be so pleased that I actually wanted to host a ball, that the reason for it would be quite unimportant to him. And you do deserve a ball Tara, you deserve many balls, when I am Queen, I shall host a ball in your honour every single day.”
“That would be a very kind gesture Willow; however it would be quite unnecessary. Besides, you will have many important things to do, there would not be enough time for a ball every day, they do take an awful lot of planning after all.”
“True, it does seem likely that I will have very little leisure time when I become Queen. I promise that I shall always make time for you though.”
“I have no doubt that you will my sweet princess.”

As Mister Giles cleared his throat impatiently, the girls fell suddenly silent. When the tutor was satisfied that he had the attention of both girls, he continued with the lesson.

“Tara?” Willow called softly, when Mister Giles was, once again, fully captivated with recalling the momentous events of the past. “Do you think that you would be able to, possibly, join me in my sleeping quarters this evening?”
“I am sure that that would not be a problem my princess.” Tara smiled.

Not willing to wait any longer, Willow cast a brief glance towards the front of the room to ensure that Mister Giles had his back turned, before leaning over and pressing her lips against Tara’s cheek in a gentle, chaste kiss.

Although it was not uncommon for Willow to spend the night in Tara’s room, this night was the first of many that the Princess and Tara would spend snuggled closely together beneath warm, soft satin sheets, hidden safely behind the thick burgundy canopies surrounding Willow’s large, mahogany four-poster bed.

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On the third morning that the young sweethearts awoke, surrounded by the luxury of fine satin, and the bliss of each others warm embrace, their wake-up call came from a quite unexpected source.

“Princess Willow! Are you hiding beneath your bed again? If you are, I shall drag you out by your toes.”

Willow sat up suddenly as the familiar voice of her dress maker’s daughter shocked her into wakefulness.

“What is it Willow?” Tara mumbled, acutely aware of Willow’s alarm, despite still being half-asleep.
“Buffy!” Willow exclaimed in a loud whisper. “Tara you must hide.”
“We are hidden, the canopies are drawn.”
“Do you really believe that that fact alone will deter Buffy?”

“Why are your drapes closed? Are you hiding from the spiders Princess? I thought you had out-grown that childish habit long ago.”
“Buffy, uhm, wait outside whilst I dress.” Willow practiced her most commanding voice, leaving no room for argument.
“Very well Princess.” Buffy sighed dejectedly and walked out of the room.

“That was a little harsh my sweet.”
“It was preferable to having her discover us sharing a bed, imagine if she mentioned something and my father found out. He would have you and your family banished. Tara, I could not bear it if you were sent away.”
“Hush darling.” Tara soothed, gently stroking her thumbs over Willow’s cheeks. “I do not think that your father would do anything so harsh.”
“Perhaps not. However, there is a reason why we draw the curtains around the bed, and, as well you know, it has nothing to do with spiders.”
“Relax my sweet, everything shall be okay. Now, quickly, get dressed and join Buffy, I shall follow behind shortly.”

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Three generations of Summers’ women had served as official royal dress makers and tailors, making suits and gowns for every member of Royalty to wear at a great multitude of events and occasions.
Joyce Summers had taken over from her own mother a short time before Willow’s birth and had thus been called upon to make every single one of Willow’s outfits and never before had she seen the Princess quite so enthusiastic about a dress. Willow had so many ideas about Tara’s ball gown and she talked animatedly about how only the finest materials, threads and decorations would be acceptable.

“Do not forget child, this gown is meant for another, perhaps you should save your enthusiasm for the next dress.” Elizabeth reminded the young princess.
“I just want her to have the finest in the world nurse, even if she will only be wearing it for a short time.”

“Do you have so many ideas for your own gown Willow?” Joyce enquired as she noted down the Princesses measurements.
“I shall be satisfied with anything, just so long as it is not too uncomfortable.” Willow answered nonchalantly.
“I do believe you have been telling me that same thing since you were five years old. Very well Princess, I shall make yours to compliment Tara’s.”

With measurements collected and armed with many ideas, Joyce set to work making two of the finest, most beautiful gowns she had made in her entire career as a dress maker.
Buffy sat at her mother’s side, doing her very best to assist and to pay attention to exactly what her mother was doing, in the hopes of mastering the family trade. Unfortunately, Buffy Summers was not born to be a dress maker and her help was much more of a hindrance than anything else, and though Joyce was patient by nature, she was working to a rather tight schedule and so she suggested, rather exasperatedly, that Buffy join the rest of the children.

Buffy gave a small, silent sigh of relief – as would you have, if you had just been told that you did not have to stay cooped up inside on a beautiful spring morning – and joyfully made her way through the castle to join Willow and Tara in the gardens.

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Okay, you'll get to see the gowns in the next update.

Hugs
Jeanne

[Kaia]

DIBS! Hehehe---

I love, love, love this story. Willow's chivalry and Tara's obvious love for her...
I was left wondering, though, about what happened in between those sating sheets, behind those curtains...maybe you can answer my question later?

Can't wait to see the gowns...and the ball...and maybe some smoochies?

Thanks,

Karinna

[Emms]

Second dibs.

[BigBlueEyes]

More please!!!! I love it!

[spells42]

This is sweet, and funny too.

Looking forward to more, Jeanne.

Anne

[Lonewolf22]

kindagay: I just got caught up with this fic, it is really GREAT I really like the idea of Willow a princess and falling in love with Tara in the world of Cinderella, that is just so sweet and nice. I really like that Tara's mother is helping both Willow and Tara with their plans. I really enjoy the way that Willow stands up to her father and tells him that she wants to marry a girl instead of a guy, very cool. It was really funny when Willow heard Buffy knocking at the door and was really scared. I really LOVE the way that Willow is always trying to capture Tara's beauty, and I also LOVED their first kiss, that was really romantic. I hope that their plan works. I can't wait to read more.

Lonewolf22

[Thianne]

i just found this story, and i have to say, i really like it. i find it incredibly sweet. i hope to see an update soon!

[WannaFriendsBe]

Jeanne sweetheart,

This TWinderella update rocks !!! The way you've introduced Buffy and Joyce is pure genius! Buffy to be a dressmaker? Priceless! *LOL*

As I've told you already, the way you write Willow is wonderful... she is so cute & central to this story (of course) - but still, beautiful Tara and all the others still shine so much in the story too. Giles is such a hoot with the droning on teacher bit... - Heehee.

Keep up the great work baby - you write so good.

ILYP

YB-d

[Useful_Oxymoron]

Although it was not uncommon for Willow to spend the night in Tara’s room, this night was the first of many that the Princess and Tara would spend snuggled closely together beneath warm, soft satin sheets, hidden safely behind the thick burgundy canopies surrounding Willow’s large, mahogany four-poster bed.

That was just so incredibly sweet!

Cuteness a-plenty. Love to see the gowns in action.

[Artemis]

Welcome back! Lookin' forward to the gowns and no mistake. And there's something about a four-poster with canopies... it's so private, it makes even snuggling seem deliciously naughty, so they get to be naughty and sweetly innocent (more or less) at the same time.

[Emms]

well, I think I'm too late to, in all honesty, keep control of the "second dibs" title. Rightfully it belongs to someone less slacker-y than I.

Where was I? Ahhh yes... groveling in hopes you might forgive my tardiness and bestow upon me mercy, and a favorable position at your feet. Pedicure?

Anyhoo, here I am!

Willow’s statement came quite out of the blue and King Ira almost had to sit down rather heavily onto a chair, until, that is, it occurred to him that he was already sitting down, at which point he considered standing just so that he could sit back down rather heavily, but he decided that that would have been a pointless waste of energy.

well he certainly is Willow's father. Comedy at its finest.

acquiesce

OMG you used the word "acquiesce... you're so smart Jea!...

Wow, Willow's really got the king wrapped around her little finger. I love how she took command of the situation and was all... "This is how it's going to go, or I wont be going at all" that was soooo butch *cough* in a very princess-y and cute way!

“I think that you always look beautiful, Willow.” Tara commented adoringly, her face lit up with a genuine, devoted smile.

that was sooooo sweet!!

At that moment, Willow wanted nothing more than to brush her lips softly against Tara’s warm smile, and had Tara’s mother not been present, she would have acted on that desire without a second thought. Instead, however, she replied with a heartfelt “Thank you”, and made a mental note to kiss Tara at the first available opportunity.

perhaps at this moment, Elizabeth could have noticed a stain on her dress and excused herself to tend to it...paving the way for soft lips and sweet kisses??? just an Idea.....

Aww again with them waking up all snuggled together...but then Buffy had to come in all obnoxious and ruin the whole thing! But then came the whole sweet moment when Willow confessed her fear that Tara would be sent away....

Oh and did I mention how much I loved the whole "ball" convo? "Cos I did. LOL I have no doubt that Willow would indeed host a ball in Tara's honor everyday... that was so sweet. And funny, too because you used the word "ball" like twenty times... Willow/Tara/the word Ball = FUNNY!

Okay....moving right along...

Okay, you'll get to see the gowns in the next update.

Aww I want to see the gowns right now... (pout) Jea, this story continues to be so incredibly sweet! I could just eat it up like a sugary donut!! Cant wait for more! Oy...I think I may have had too much sugar today... sorry about that jea...

xoxo
Emms

[kindagay]

Is this thing still on *taps computer screen* Is anyone still in the least bit interested in this fic?

I know that it's been months, & you've probably all forgotten about this little fairy tale of mine, but, I think I have finally recovered from my writers block and I have an update for you all.

First, THANK YOU, to everyone who left me feedback and who's still reading my story.

& now, may I present to you...

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Chapter 6

On the morning of the great ball, the castle was so alive with excitement and activity that one could have easily been forgiven for believing that the Rosenberg’s were the ones who were hosting the ball, as opposed to just sending their daughter to one. Rather surprisingly, at least to King Ira and Queen Sheila, it was the princess who seemed the most enthused about that evening’s event, as she flitted about the castle busying herself with so many tasks that the King did wonder if his daughter had been driven to madness.

“Willow, are you quite well?” King Ira enquired, with genuine concern, after watching his daughter spin around the throne room, muttering to herself for almost twenty minutes.
“Yes Father, why do you ask?”
“You seem, well, just a little, uhm, frenzied.”
“Thank you for your concern, but I assure you that I am well.”

The spinning and muttering continued and the King wondered if he should say more. After deciding that it would be best to just let Willow continue, this decision was almost immediately over-ruled as his wife made an exaggerated sound of vexation and began to fan herself rather rapidly.

“Willow please, do sit down, you are making your mother quite dizzy.”
“I have no time Father, if we are to reach our destination in good time we must leave in just a little over two hours.”
“Surely daughter, there can not be so much to organise for one ball. What exactly is it that you are doing princess? Would it not be more important for you to be getting dressed?”
“I have no intention of wearing that… that ridiculously lavish ensemble of cloth and ribbons for one moment longer than is absolutely necessary.”

The King gave an audible sigh, shaking his head in defeat as his daughter hurried from the room to perform yet more preparatory tasks.

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

Thirty minutes before it was time for the coach to leave the castle, Willow’s energy had finally ceased. Or rather, it had not ceased, it was being directed towards a much calmer, and more enjoyable task, as her lips were pressed firmly against Tara’s.

“I shall save a dance for you, my dove. I shall save all of the dances for you.” Willow promised earnestly, sealing her vow with a soft kiss.
“I shall not be there to dance with princess.” Tara gave a small chuckle to hide the sadness in her voice.
“We will have our own private ball right here in my room when we return, and I shall dance every dance with you then.”
“Do you intend to participate in any of the dances tonight, Willow? I am certain that many young suitors will be keen to dance with you.”
“Me? Dance with a clumsy, smelly boy? Most certainly not!” The princess was rather disgusted by the thought and her absolute objection amused Tara greatly.
“My dear, sweet princess, you are quite adorable. It would do you no harm to dance with a boy, and if you do not, then how will you amuse yourself all night? A ball must be a terribly tedious event for those not willing to participate in the festivities.”
“A ball is a terribly tedious event in any case Tara. I am only attending so that Cinderella can accompany me, and Prince Charming can fall in love with her. In fact, once Cinderella is inside the castle, my presence will no longer be required, perhaps I should tell Alexander to wait for me to steal away from the ball, he could bring me back to help you and Nurse complete Cinderella’s chores.”
“You must be seen to be present throughout the entire ball Princess, if word got back to your father that you went missing, he would be furious.”
“Very well,” Willow sighed, folding her arms in determined indignation. “But I shall not have any fun, and I shall miss you terribly.”
--------------

Tara could not recall a time when anyone other than the King, Queen or Princess had been granted permission to ride in the royal carriage. In fact, this day was to be the first that anyone who was not of royal blood would ride in the gold engraved, ivory coach, and Tara was so humbled by the privilege, that she was almost scared to step up onto the ornately carved, iron step. Sensing her love’s reluctance, Willow chivalrously reached out to take Tara’s hand, giving it a gentle, reassuring squeeze.

The interior of the coach was the epitome of luxury and comfort; indeed, Tara felt that, rather than entering a carriage, she was in fact, stepping into a small guest room, reserved for only the most important of guests. The small floor space was covered with a plush red carpet; the wooden bench seats comfortably padded and covered with cream coloured silk; small, fully lined, burgundy curtains hung at the windows, tied open with fine golden velvet ropes; and the insides of the doors were decorated with rich, hand-sewn tapestries.

“Wow!” Tara gasped soundlessly, suddenly feeling as though she should have removed her shoes in order to keep the carpet clean.

Willow, on the contrary, was so accustomed to travelling in the coach, that she scuffed her shoes over the carpet and almost dived, unceremoniously onto the seat opposite Tara. The princesses’ behaviour earned a frown from her companion, who realised how very much Willow took everything that she had for granted.

“Does something trouble you, my dove?” Willow enquired, moving to sit beside her sweetheart.
“I am not like you, princess, I cannot take such beauty and comfort for granted.”
“I do not take it for granted, Tara.” The princess insisted defensively.
“Do you see what surrounds you Willow? Do you appreciate the beauty that your parents insist upon?”
“I see it Tara, I have seen it daily for my entire life. It is not that I do not appreciate it, I feel blessed that I should be surrounded by such finery and luxury. My issue with it all, is that I do not understand why it should be reserved for those with royal blood. This carriage, the carpet, curtains, tapestries and silks, they are for my parents and myself; we are the only people who get to enjoy it. It does not seem at all fair to me. I am sure that I would appreciate it so much more, if only I could share it.”
“Oh, well, that makes sense.” Tara stammered, slightly embarrassed that she could have assumed the worst about Willow. “However, if you wish to share your luxuries, you should treat them with more respect, so that they are not spoiled for those with whom you share them.”
“Very well my sweet, I shall make efforts to treat my luxuries with more care.”
--------------

“Does Alexander know where we are going?” Tara enquired, quite puzzled by the sight of a rather familiar looking felled tree. “We should be through the forest by now, surely.”
“I advised Alexander to take as much of our journey as possible through the forest, so that we are less likely to be discovered journeying so far away from Amberdale.”
“Very well planned my sweet.” Tara smiled at her loves’ good thinking. “But I feel that we are travelling in circles.”
“Worry not my sweet, your mother is sat beside Alexander; she shall ensure that we reach our destination.”
“Princess, we have passed that same tree at least three times now, how are we to reach any destination if we travel around in a great circle?”
“Does the view trouble you, my dove?”
“It does not trouble me; it just appears that the view is unchanging.”
“Well then, allow me to shield you from the monotony.” Willow tugged gently as the curtains velvet ties, allowing the dark cloth to fall over the windows. “Now, we cannot see the unchanging view, and nobody who might happen to pass by can see us.” The princess pointed out, a mischievous spark in the corner of her eye, as she rejoined Tara on the bench seat, leaning forward to capture the blonde’s lips.

The remainder of the journey seemed to occur and end all too soon, – at least for Tara, who was rather enjoying being pinned to the silken seat and kissed so tenderly by her redheaded princess – as the coach came to a halt and a persistent, rapid, tapping on the door brought the two youngsters rather abruptly back to reality.

“Come now my children, we must hurry.” Elizabeth insisted urgently. “Since we seemed to get lost in the forest…” An accusatory glare was directed towards Alexander “…we are now running far behind schedule.”

Willow flashed their coachman a grateful smile as he winked, conspiratorially, at the princess. For Alexander and Willow both knew that they had, at no point during the journey, been lost. The princess – after taking Alexander into her confidence, regarding her relationship with Tara – had requested that the young man circle the quietest part of the forest a few times, so that she might be granted more time alone with her love.

“We left the castle in good time nurse, I am sure that there is no need for us to hurry.”
“The ball begins in less than one hour, and the journey to Amberdale will take longer than that.” Elizabeth tapped urgently at the face of her brass pocket watch to emphasise her point.

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

“Elizab… uhm, Lady Maclay? Tara? What uhm, why are you here?”

The appearance of the young woman stood in the doorway, if taken at face value, would have caused Willow to seriously doubt her suitability as a match for any prince. However, the princess was not one to judge anything or anyone by their appearance alone, and she could see that, beneath the soot, grime and rags, Cinderella was quite beautiful – not as beautiful as Tara, but, beautiful none-the-less.

“There is a royal ball, is there not?” Elizabeth asked, matter of factly.
“Well, yes, but…”
“And an invitation was sent, addressed to all of the female residents of this household, was it not?”
“Yes, but Lady….”
“And you are one of the female residents of this household, are you not?”
“I am, but…”
“Then might I suggest that we stop wasting time with buts, and get you ready to go to the ball?”
Willow instantly recognised that Elizabeth was officially in full nurse mode, and her look of absolute resolve meant that she would not stand for any nonsense.

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

Thirty minutes later, Cinderella was washed, her hair was tied back, and her dull, grey rags, had been exchanged for a soft, blue silk ball gown, with white puff sleeves and matching lace gloves; her stocking-less feet were now encased in the finest crystal-glass slippers; and a string of the finest pearls hung delicately around her neck.

“Now, do not worry about your chores, Tara and I shall see to it that the house is spic and span upon your return. Just go and have fun.”
“Yes my lady, I… thank you.”
“Go, quickly, or the ball shall be over before you even arrive.” Elizabeth shooed Cinderella and Willow – who stole one last, chaste kiss from Tara – into the coach and away to the ball. “Just remember to be back before the stroke of midnight, or we shall never be gone before your stepmother and sisters return.”

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To be continued.... hopefully very soon.

*Prays that someone will still be interested in this fic*

Hugs
Jeanne

[Emms]

Oh JEA! *Squeal* *Gush*

You have no idea how happy I am to see an update for this fic! And such a sweet one at that!! I loved Willow in this update, and I especially loved that she and Tara got so much alone time this time around. WOOT for an extra long carriage ride around the forest!

The whole part about shielding Tara from the monotony was one of my favorite parts.

And when they arrived at Cinderella’s residence to whisk her away to the ball, Elizabeth reminded me of the fairy god mother in all the Cinderella movies. Tee hee!

I’m just so glad that you’re back to writing again, sweetie. I know I’ve missed your stories and your general Jea’ness around the board. You’re stories always give me that sugary, warm, and fuzzy feeling, and I just love them.

xoxo
Emms

[Candleshoe]

*sigh* I'm crap with this feedback malarkey, so all I can say is....this was lovely. I'm still interested, and here...and waiting with bated breath for the next bit....

*sigh again*