You Make Me Smile

[dorksrcool]

“You don’t need to do anything to make me like you,” she said seriously, but Willow ducked her head and Tara waited until the redhead’s green eyes met hers again. “I like you, Willow…” She spoke slowly, letting her words take shape in the air between them.

Damn. Your writing ability astounds me Emms. I really like where this story is going. Just enough drama and lots of . I'm always amazed at the way your writing flows, it's so satisfying to read. You really know how to weave an intricate story. Thank you so much for sharing and I look forward to more, as always.


amy

[WillowRulez]

God, I love this story. It's too cute! Now I have a nice fuzzy feeling inside... I almost forgot about Logan even!
Willow picking the golf course was too funny...
Please update real soon again?

[Guppy]

So cute! I loved the whole porch interaction. Both of their reactions and thoughts were very true to character. They both are taking their time getting involved for different reasons. I like that Tara was willing to ask her tough questions. That'll bring them closer quicker!

Willow is definately going to spoil Tara and Spencer! So sweet of her. Love this story!!!

[The Rose24]

Very sweet session with the ladies.

Willow really is sprung. She buys a BMW for a woman she has only known for a short time. I wonder how Tara feels now.

[FineyMcFine]

Hey Emms - hoorah for an update to YMMS! And a lovely banner, as well. Did you draw it?

I wondering if Willow bought the BMW for Tara or just rented it for her for a week. Either way, I actually sort of sense that Tara won't necessarily take it well - she has an independent streak that seems born of her need to make sure she takes care of Spencer. While Willow's gesture is highly generous, I'm just anticipating a little mistrust from Tara since it's a rather grand gesture. I wouldn't mind being proven wrong, though.

And while it's a lovely generous thing to make sure that Tara is well taken care of, transportation-wise, while her van is being repaired, on the other hand it seems possible that instead of talking about her feelings, she's instead trying to communicate nonverbally. Which is fine when it's actions speaking, but perhaps not fine when it's extravagant. I dunno, I guess the reason I think Tara will be wary is because Willow hasn't even really told her how she feels. That Tara had to ask if Willow had a lot of girlfriends is a hint.

Anyway, aside from those thoughts, I also wanted to say how beautifully written their interactions continue to be. You're doing a stellar job of painting the picture.

[wimpy0729]

Oh Emms, what another lovely update. Your imagery at the porch scene is, as usual, amazing. I felt like a voyeur standing right there watching every touch, hearing every word spoken and experiencing the emotions that only come with the magic of the first kisses with someone special. I could almost feel the thumping of their hearts...no wait, that was me. lol. And oh, the feeling, that longing feeling of having to leave or watch someone leave when all you both want is to be together, just a few more touches, just to hold each other a little longer, to keep tasting their lips, feel their breath on your neck...*sigh*

I'm glad Tara was able to feel brave enough to ask Willow the "previous girlfriend" question. That's always scary because you don't know what the answer will be and you may not want to know the real answer.

Now I'm curious to see how Tara will react to the car gesture. On one hand, Willow was trying to be helpful, but Tara may feel awkward accepting such a generous gift until her vehicle is repaired. I'm guessing that could lead to an interesting conversation. And the man at the door that early in the morning...hmm...a little worrisome. I'm glad Spencer did the right thing. I've had the same conversations with my son many times about not opening the door. Good job, Spencer. Such a bright little man.

I hope Willow's trip won't mean she'll be away too long. And of course, I hope you won't keep us waiting too long for the next update.

Oh, and as for me, my gf and I just celebrated our one year anniversary. Yay! Time flies when you're having fun. Now we've been househunting for a while and getting frustrated because we can't find just the right place. Grrr. Hopefully we'll find it soon and can stop all this running between two places because that's so tiring, and of course, I would rather use my energy on other, um, things.

Love ya! Keep up the great work.

Wimpy

[Boadecia]

Sqqquuuueeeeeeeeee!! i love their inability to move away from one another if even for a fraction of a second. You always write the magnetism between the two so well. Brava!

[taraforever]

What a great update Emms. You did a great job!! You're really an amazing writer

As SallyMcFine said:

wondering if Willow bought the BMW for Tara or just rented it for her for a week. Either way, I actually sort of sense that Tara won't necessarily take it well.

I think it too. Because Tara said:

“That’s very sweet but…I would really rather figure it out on my own.” (...)“You don’t need to do anything to make me like you,”

It's like Willow didn't consider what Tara told her. And it might be a problem betweem them.

It reminds me what happened at the beginning of "Tabula Rasa":

WILLOW: But I-I just wanted to make things better. Better for us.
TARA: But you don't get to decide what is better for us, Will. We're in a relationship, we are supposed to decide together.

But are they in a relationship??

I'm afraid that a fight between them can occur when they see each other again. Buffy told Willow to "Tell her how you feel and see how it goes.” But with this BMW gesture, I'm really afraid that this will turn wrong.

Her relationship with Logan made her think a lot about relationships, and she wants to bring someone 'very special' in Spencer's life. A perfect someone because she doesn't want to suffer too. I think she knows that Willow is or might be. BUT....

Remember that at the beginning of the story, Tara said that she loves her life like that. To be independent and free. It was the reason she didn't accept Willow's offer to work for her, when she was looking for an artist.

I'm not sure that Logan is going to take it well the fact that Willow is going to have more and more place in her son's life and Tara's. We will see...

I think that this trip in Japan could be an excellent thing for Tara and Willow. Because if they have a fight before Willow leaves, they will be able to think about what happened and what they could loose for their own life.

I'm afraid about Willow's career. She doesn't really work anymore. We will see what will happen

Well, Emms again, BRAVO and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

Hope to read you soon again

[Artemis]

Lovely - Willow and Tara on the porch, talking and almost-talking, and making a little progress in communicating generally, though there's still plenty of ground to cover. But it's encouraging that they've broached the topic of Anya's indiscrete comments, and set Tara's mind at ease a little on that score.

Now, the BMW... full marks for helpfulness for Willow, but it's not hard to imagine Tara being a bit intimidated by it, especially with her so recently worrying that perhaps Willow was trying to romantically impress her by helping out. Tara's that kind of deep-thinker - Willow, brilliant as she is, does have this tendency to think in straight lines. Tara in transport trouble + BMW = Tara with no transport trouble, and I can see Willow just up and renting the car for her on that basis. It'll probably cause some friction between them, as they're still in the 'working each other out' stage - but in the end, I hope Tara will see it as just a manifestation of Willow's essential sweetness.

(It is rented, right? I mean, Willow wouldn't just buy Tara a BMW as a present, having been on one date with her?)

(Then again, if she did, that could at least settle any doubts Tara might have about being 'just another' of Willow's occasional flings. Unless she buys new luxury cars for all her one-night-stands...)

(But all in all, more likely it's rented.)

[ZenMe]

Great update...I love, love, love this story. It's so sweet.

The writing is wonderful and visual...

SallyMcFine said:

You're doing a stellar job of painting the picture.

and it is absolutely true, I feel like I'm actually seeing the porch scene rather than reading it. The same for the parking lot kiss and the rain in the last update.

I can't wait for more.

Thanks for writing this,
Zen

[Shy One]

Oh Emms!!!!

What a fantastic update!!
And.....you dedicated this update to little 'ole me?
I'm touched!
Really, that was so sweet of you!

I was so happy that there were more smoochies......
But damn the early morning meeting with Buffy.
I was hoping for "or something" like Tara said.
I hope we don't have to wait too long for their relationship to
get to that point.
You know how much I love my

And I just gotta say, "Girl, you are the greatest!!"
I hope the next update is just around the corner.

btw - I've been wondering......who is the woman in your avatar?

Love ya, Sweetie!
Shy One

[kindagay]

Oh lookie, an update - Yay!


That was a very sweet ending to their first date - & more kisses are always good.
I'm glad that Tara's fears & worries - caused by Anya's insensitivity - have been cleared up now.

This part...

“... At the moment I’m pretty much girlfriendless.”

....

“Pretty much?”

Willow lifted her eyebrows at the blonde, hoping she would pick up on what she had implied; by the blush that crept across Tara’s cheeks Willow guessed she’d gotten it.

was very sweet, definitely aww worthy

“I like you, Willow…” She spoke slowly, letting her words take shape in the air between them.

“I like you too…” Willow leaned in, unable to keep herself from doing so any longer, as Tara moved forward. Their lips met.

Yay! Aww

She felt the blush return to her cheeks, only this time it wasn‘t because of embarrassment. She knew it would be best to say goodnight to Willow and that be it for the night; but what she really wanted to do was pull Willow into the house by her jacket and into her bedroom.

Oh, naughty Tara I absolutely cannot wait until our girls actually do make it to the bedroom, with the tone of this fic I'm sure it's gonna be the most romantic 'first time' in fanfic history.
Uhm, no pressure sweetie

Aww, how sweet of Willow to want to help Tara with taking Spencer to school. & the BMW was a nice gesture - helping out, whilst still allowing Tara her independence & without crowding her too - though why it had to be delivered at 6:30 in the morning I don't know?
& how excited was Spencer? The car is definitely gonna earn Willow some major points - not that she needs them of course, Spencer already adores her.

Willow really has changed so much since meeting Tara. If I can just give one example - compare this (from the 1st chapter)

Willow tapped the eraser end of her pencil along the dark mahogany desk, which was fun…for a moment. The pencil left those little pink eraser smudges everywhere it hit. Willow couldn‘t tolerate that, so she licked the tip of her finger and rubbing it against the smudges, scrubbed the markings away.

to this

Willow picked up a slip of carbon paper from the desk, fiddling with it, not even noticing the black ink it left on her fingertips.

See how much more relaxed & less neurotic Willow is now. Tara's having a wonderful influence on workaholic Willow - she's finally realising that there's so much more to life than just work work work.

It's nice that Willow has Buffy to confide in, it certainly seems like she's gonna help a lot in getting our girls together and in getting Willow to figure out & open up about how she feels.

Oh, & this part...

“I’m sorry, Buffy. Look. Here…this one looks nice.” Willow pointed to one of the brochures fanned out on the table between them.

“That’s a brochure for the miniature golf course, Will…unless you’d like to sleep in The Windmill…but I don’t think they provide room service.”

- Very cute.

Okay, I'm all babbled out now.
This story always makes me feel warm & fuzzy & happy I'm looking forward to more sweetie.

Hugs
Jeanne

[Grayson]

As I think I've said before, I really like that you've captured the adult-ness of these characters. There's a very different feel about two adults (one of them a parent) getting together, and you're doing a great job of showing each of their reservations, as well as their excitement and connection.

Since I know Willow and Tara are going to end up happily ever after, my biggest source of angst is Willow's project. I'd hate for her to have something she worked so hard on fall through, especially when she found someone perfect for the job. Not that I don't understand Tara's reluctance to work with someone she's interested. Again with the whole mature adult thing.

Great job - I look forward to more getting-to-know-you time between the two. I'm sure it won't be smooth sailing off into the sunset just yet.

[willowbaby05]

Hi Emms,
I down to your writing. It's *:letter thinks of a word* I can even think of a word that describes this story. Stupid me.
I love so far so, I'll be waiting for the next update.

[umgaynow]

That Willow is something else...most women waffle about whether it's OK to send flowers after a first date...she sends a beamer...oy! Oficially I would like to place an order for less angst and mpre ahppies and smoochiness...possibly with a side of nudity?

Good work Emms...you know I love the way your funky mind works

[Darth Pacula]

G'day, Emms.

Another sweet update. And I'm use sweet in two senses of the word there; sweet as in aww, and sweet as used by the likes of Eric Cartman. Perhaps that should be more sweeettt!

Other people have already mentioned it, but I really liked the reoccurring theme of gravity you've used to such magnificent effect. The mental image of Willow and Tara as twin celestial entities being brought ever closer to one another is just so effective.

I was almost expecting that the news of Willow's trip would raise more of an issue than it did, or rather Willow's lateness in informing Tara. But then I realized that they've only just had their first date, and they're still pretty much in the casual stage right now.

It's good that Tara brought up the issue raised by Anya's lack of tact. I have the feeling that there is still a lot more to be discussed before Tara will let Willow really become a part of her life. As a mother, she does have to put Spencer's wellbeing first, and bringing a new prospective partner into the domestic dynamic is always fraught with peril.

Now onto the issue of the Beamer. It's definitely generous, you have to give Willow marks for that, even if it is just a rental. But then again, Tara did say that she would rather figure it out on her own. Maybe I'm projecting my own issues here, but I foresee this not working the way that I imagine Willow hoped this gesture would work.

So Buffy makes an appearance, and as a travel agent huh? But I found this line telling in particular.

she was the closest person Willow had to a best friend

That's another indication of how lonely Willow is. No matter how close she might be to Buffy, (and we only have the vaguest of ideas about that) Willow still doesn't think that she has a best friend. Maybe I'm just overreacting, that that seems kind of sad.

But no matter what their nature of their relationship, Buffy does give good advice. Willow should rely less on extravagant gestures and more on good old-fashioned honesty.

Nice banner too, by the way.

Cheers,
Paul.

[Sandman78]

Hello Emms, Thanks for the update...It was truly worth the wait
I was sitting here trying to will Tara & Willow to kiss each other senseless ...but I can understand taking it slow (just not at a snails pace hopefuly )
And by the way, you have me on pins and needles wondering what you have in store for them next...perhaps a NC17 rating? A girl can dream, can't she?
Again, I am loving every bit of this story...want more! more! more!
(Of course whenever you're ready that is.)

[Thianne]

I DIDN'T LEAVE FEEDBACK?!?!? why didn't somebody tell me? (is it grammatically correct? i wanna know when i make mistakes)
anyway, this:

“... At the moment I’m pretty much girlfriendless.”

....

“Pretty much?”

Willow lifted her eyebrows at the blonde, hoping she would pick up on what she had implied; by the blush that crept across Tara’s cheeks Willow guessed she’d gotten it.

was very sweet. it gave me that fuzzy feeling....

[irishgrl3]

Emms,
Sweet update! A very nice ending to their date! I mean wow...

Tara took a deep breath. She didn’t know what she was going to say until it came out, “Do you have a lot of girlfriends?” She held her breath, waiting for Willow’s response.

Shoot, I held my breath as Tara asked the question. When that thought goes through your head about not knowing what you might say until it actually comes out, you never know what to expect. Or maybe that's just personal experience issues... hee-hee

Willow came back with the right answer though! Very smooth.

Interesting bit about the car, I don't know if Tara's going to be upset or not. Especially after she said she would take car of it herself. Although the gesture was really sweet and would get bonus points in my book.

Wonderful update!

Take care,
-anna

[Useful_Oxymoron]

Oh, so lovely. Very cute kissage in this great update. We can all use a steady dose of W/T kissage to forget about the world's daily horrors, if only for a little while.

A gift of a BMW? This Willow doesn't do anything small, does she? I also the loved the Willow and Buffy chat at the end. Willow's got it so bad and she doesn't even realize it yet. Cool.

Impatiently waiting for the next update!

[PancakesinBellies]

Oooh...I heart you. This is a fabulous update, and I can't wait to read more. I look forward to more , though I get the feeling Tara's going to be a little reticent after the BMW.

Although, she *could* just use it to run over Logan... I mean, someone should get the pleasure, right?

Seriously, someone needs to lay the proverbial smack-down on that one...

[watty]

Lovely banner, Emmy. You have an uncanny knack of drawing children that captures their innocence and sweetness.

I like the little steps they're making, including the awkward-ish probing questions and the kissing, oh the kissing. mmmm.

The beginning of a relationship is overwhelming enough -- trying to confirm that there is an attraction, getting a sense of what the other person likes/dislikes, filling in the blanks about history etc -- without the added difficulty of a difference in wealth situation. Tara said specifically

“You don’t need to do anything to make me like you,”

but Willow turns around and has a beamer delivered to Tara's doorstep the next day. Now whether it's bought or rented is pretty much moot. I can imagine Tara feeling awkward about this, and probably react more intensely because she is proud, and Willow matters to her. She may even be thinking about whether she can keep up with Willow if their relationship develops.

Thinking from Willow's point of view though. She's lonely, she doesn't have many friends, but she has success and money. I think that it comes naturally to her, that if there's a problem or situation, just throw money at it. She hasn't thought about how Tara would feel about the help (obligated etc) because she, Willow, doesn't expect anything back from it.

I hope the car business doesn't become a stumbling block for them getting closer. May be Spencer can do his magic and help.
[br]

[DreamLover]

I all ready told you but still.... Thanks Emms it means a lot!!

Duhhhhh Willow wake up...Tara is the artist that you want so TAKE her <<< I meant as in an artist for the project...>>> get your mind out of heaven number NC17 Anyway that's what I thought just wake up....

Then I read a part that sounded as it needed more.... maybe a little more kissing..don't yeah think >> I'm not finished yet...with my thinking thoughts just hold on....<< this kiss was just a goodnight kiss at the door..more action please. Yeah Yeah Ginny in the house...but still a little more sparks bring on the passion heat.

>> I said wait remember<< Then you did ... more passion just when I needed more and they did too. Thanks for that I can't read a story without my fix of passion.

It's getting pretty serious with all the questions and needing answers. Tara is really in luck that she isn't freaking out Willow. I mean a fast woman like her don't really want to get tide down like that. Off course they want to settle down and have a family just all those questions mostly makes them jumpy and run away so it must be serious.... it's love...L.U.V.

I just hope Willow will understand that love isn't bought. It's just there and needs to be build on. A BMW is wooo but so wrong to give now... maybe when they are married just not now!!. It could make Tara think different. Yes she could think that Willow has deeper feelings for her... giving her such a gift. But knowing Tara she probably will think what if our relationship Willow's and hers would work. Will Willow always buy her gifts when it get a little bumpy... or when she hasn't got time.. for her and Spencer. Gifts are nice but it ain't what it's all about... it are the little things that count the most. And beside it could give Tara a feeling like she can't take care of herself... and that's wrong she can. She all ready did that... she can take care of herself and Spencer. I'm feeling that there will be a fight in the next update...not a big one just a little one and I think Tara wont except the gift. I'm I right? Yeah Yeah I know you won't tell...just pm me the answer... I mean it

Great update Emms...your great.

Henny

[WillowsGirlXX]

I just started reading this the other day, it is fantastic, really love the story.

Thank you so much for sharing it.
Rachel

[Emms]

I just want to thank everyone again for all the wonderful feedback ya’ll have been leaving for this story. It’s very motivating. Hehe. In fact, I’ve already given chapter ten to my beta. It’s a hefty update too, over 4000 words.


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Kaia, Thank you so much for your feedback.

OMG! A BMW?? What series??

hehe...Actually I don't know...my brain doesn't work those kind of details out...all I know is that it's shiny and black. LOL.

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hotydnic

Thank you!
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db

I am a little wary of the BMW thing though - maybe Willow went a little overboard? Willow - she's always looking for solutions, and I got the impression that Tara was saying that she (Tara) wanted to find her own solution to this particular dillema... I wonder how Tara is going to take this gesture? If she'll take the car... and what if she doesn't? Wouldn't Willow's feelings be hurt? She has extended herself so far - I can only imagine she's quaking in her shoes (what with the thinking she's in love and the putting herself out there on the stage and the car). She's put her self wayyyy out on a limb - and I'm afraid that she'll get hurt. I bet she is too. Oy.

I can guarantee all of your questions will be answered in chapter 10.

And Tara - she has so many walls there. She's so worried about bringing someone into Spencer's life - and she should be, I mean, Spencer is precious... and certainly Logan has been a dissapointment, so she has been burned in the past - but she did ask Willow out, and she did kiss her and ask her in for coffee and she DID ask the most important question (re: girlfirends), so Tara has been putting herself out there too. She's in a scary place - and she'll have to take a chance to win out here (for both her and Spencer). I just hope she does - I think Willow will make a great mom. Heck, I think we all know how perfect Willow will be for her ... if she gives Willow the chance, I think she'll find Willow open to making room in her (willow's) life for a little slowing down and quality Tara/Spencer time

wow....I'm in aww of the depth of your feedback. I couldn't have said it any better, myself.

Plus. I think you're on to something here with the trip to Japan and Tara's (inner) questioning re: whether Willow will want to slow down her busy business life to make room for a slower *family* life. I am not sure Willow really sees the enormity of that yet - I mean I think she knows she is falling in love, but does she really get what kind of commitment that means?

No...I don't think she's even hit that stage yet. But she will...and when she does i don't know if it's going to be pretty...

Both of our girls have some thinking to do... you''ve spun a thought provoking tale here!

Thank you!!

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Caz

Thank you for the feedback!

Willow sweetie - you can give me a car anytime! Seriously though, what a lovely gesture for Willow to make. I bet that Logan doesn't give a stuff that Tara is gonna have problems getting Spencer to school (my evil maternal side is coming out).

I think you are exactly right.

Woo Hoo! Willow thinks that she is in love with Tara. Thank you Buffy for advising Willow to talk to Tara about it. Let's hope that Willow listens to her best friend.

I’m sure she will.

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The Rose24 Thank you!

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Guppy

Thank you so much for the feedback, guppy! I think you're right, eventually Willow will definitely be spoiling Tara and Spencer.

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WillowRulez

Aww, I'm glad you love the story. And I think a few people have mentioned the fuzzy feeling...so I'm taking it that that's a good thing. Thank you so much for the lovely feedback, sweetie.

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Amy

Damn. Your writing ability astounds me Emms. I really like where this story is going. Just enough drama and lots of . I'm always amazed at the way your writing flows, it's so satisfying to read. You really know how to weave an intricate story. Thank you so much for sharing and I look forward to more, as always.

Thank you. the things you said really mean a lot to me, and were very sweet.

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AlysonGoddess Thank you.

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Dianneswillowtree Thank you, sweetie!


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Boadecia

Sqqquuuueeeeeeeeee!! i love their inability to move away from one another if even for a fraction of a second. You always write the magnetism between the two so well. Brava!

I loved the sound effect...it made me laugh out loud.

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Wimpy!!!

Congrats on the one year anniversary with your girl! And not to worry, I'm sure you two will find the perfect house!

What wonderfully grand and authentically wimpy feedback. How I missed those.... *happy sigh*

I hope Willow's trip won't mean she'll be away too long. And of course, I hope you won't keep us waiting too long for the next update.

oh I promise I wont make you wait long at all...in fact chapter 10 has already been sent to my beta. It's looooong too. hehe.

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Sally!

Hey Emms - hoorah for an update to YMMS! And a lovely banner, as well. Did you draw it?

Thank you. Yep. It's an Emms original. hehe.

I wondering if Willow bought the BMW for Tara or just rented it for her for a week. Either way, I actually sort of sense that Tara won't necessarily take it well - she has an independent streak that seems born of her need to make sure she takes care of Spencer. While Willow's gesture is highly generous, I'm just anticipating a little mistrust from Tara since it's a rather grand gesture. I wouldn't mind being proven wrong, though.

i think you're right...I can't really see Tara accepting such an expensive gift from Willow either, especially not after only the first date date.

And while it's a lovely generous thing to make sure that Tara is well taken care of, transportation-wise, while her van is being repaired, on the other hand it seems possible that instead of talking about her feelings, she's instead trying to communicate nonverbally. Which is fine when it's actions speaking, but perhaps not fine when it's extravagant. I dunno, I guess the reason I think Tara will be wary is because Willow hasn't even really told her how she feels. That Tara had to ask if Willow had a lot of girlfriends is a hint.

I couldn't have said it better myself...they still have a lot to talk about (*groan at the thought of all the dialogue I'm going to have to write* )

Anyway, aside from those thoughts, I also wanted to say how beautifully written their interactions continue to be. You're doing a stellar job of painting the picture.

Thank you so much, sweetie. coming from you, that really means a lot to me.
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taraforever

What a great update Emms. You did a great job!! You're really an amazing writer

, thank you. That's so sweet.

I'm afraid that a fight between them can occur when they see each other again. Buffy told Willow to "Tell her how you feel and see how it goes.” But with this BMW gesture, I'm really afraid that this will turn wrong.

You could be right....

I'm not sure that Logan is going to take it well the fact that Willow is going to have more and more place in her son's life and Tara's. We will see...

Yeah...I totally think that that is going to be the largest slice of angst and drama in the story.

Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback, sweetie.
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Chris

Lovely - Willow and Tara on the porch, talking and almost-talking, and making a little progress in communicating generally, though there's still plenty of ground to cover. But it's encouraging that they've broached the topic of Anya's indiscrete comments, and set Tara's mind at ease a little on that score.

Halleluiah for that, huh?

Now, the BMW... full marks for helpfulness for Willow, but it's not hard to imagine Tara being a bit intimidated by it, especially with her so recently worrying that perhaps Willow was trying to romantically impress her by helping out. Tara's that kind of deep-thinker - Willow, brilliant as she is, does have this tendency to think in straight lines. Tara in transport trouble + BMW = Tara with no transport trouble, and I can see Willow just up and renting the car for her on that basis. It'll probably cause some friction between them, as they're still in the 'working each other out' stage - but in the end, I hope Tara will see it as just a manifestation of Willow's essential sweetness.

Like I said to watty, When I read your comments I was thinking...wow, you have a really great understanding of where I'm going with this story...I think that makes me predictable.

(It is rented, right? I mean, Willow wouldn't just buy Tara a BMW as a present, having been on one date with her?)

Oh I'm certain she totally would, if she thought she could get away with it...but I think this Willow is a little too smart to try that, so soon.

Luv ya, chris-y-poo


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ZenMe

Hi there, sweetie! Thank you so much for your kind words.

If I can put you on the porch or in the parking lot with the rain, then I'm doing my job.

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Shy One of course you got the dedication.

I'm glad you liked the update and the smooches. There are definitely more of those around here somewhere.

btw - I've been wondering......who is the woman in your avatar?

Ani Difranco, baby!

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Jea!

Oh, naughty Tara I absolutely cannot wait until our girls actually do make it to the bedroom, with the tone of this fic I'm sure it's gonna be the most romantic 'first time' in fanfic history.
Uhm, no pressure sweetie

Loosens collar...um yeah, but no pressure, right?

And OMG!! The parts you quoted about the first chapter and the pencil eraser smudges and this last chapter about the carbon copy inky stuff on her fingers and how she didn't really care about it.... I so knew you were going to be the one to pick up on that !! In fact you were the only one to pick up on it!! I added that to show how much Willow is really beginning to lighten up and change. WOW JEA! You ROCK!

As always, thank you for the babble, girl! LUV YA!
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Grayson

As I think I've said before, I really like that you've captured the adult-ness of these characters. There's a very different feel about two adults (one of them a parent) getting together, and you're doing a great job of showing each of their reservations, as well as their excitement and connection.

Thank you.

Since I know Willow and Tara are going to end up happily ever after, my biggest source of angst is Willow's project. I'd hate for her to have something she worked so hard on fall through, especially when she found someone perfect for the job. Not that I don't understand Tara's reluctance to work with someone she's interested. Again with the whole mature adult thing.

Oh I don't think it was too much about Tara not wanting to work with Willow because she's interested in her...it was more about the fact that she likes the life the way it is and she didn't really want to be locked down to a job.

Great job - I look forward to more getting-to-know-you time between the two. I'm sure it won't be smooth sailing off into the sunset just yet.

yeah, they're probably not going to sail off into the sunset so soon after their first date...but soon, I promise. hehe. Thank you for the feedback!!

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willowbaby05

Thank you for reading and leaving feedback! WOO!

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umgaynow Hi!

That Willow is something else...most women waffle about whether it's OK to send flowers after a first date...she sends a beamer...oy! Oficially I would like to place an order for less angst and mpre ahppies and smoochiness...possibly with a side of nudity?

Oh..but she's already waffled about the flowers. she's over that. Now there's bigger things to waffle about. hehe


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Darth Pacula Hi there paul

Another sweet update. And I'm use sweet in two senses of the word there; sweet as in aww, and sweet as used by the likes of Eric Cartman. Perhaps that should be more sweeettt!

Thank you. Sweeet was exactly what I was going for here.

Other people have already mentioned it, but I really liked the reoccurring theme of gravity you've used to such magnificent effect. The mental image of Willow and Tara as twin celestial entities being brought ever closer to one another is just so effective.

again, thank you.

I was almost expecting that the news of Willow's trip would raise more of an issue than it did, or rather Willow's lateness in informing Tara. But then I realized that they've only just had their first date, and they're still pretty much in the casual stage right now.

Really? That's interesting, because It sort of felt the same way to me too, and when I was writing that part I had to keep telling myself that they had only just started dating. Lol

It's good that Tara brought up the issue raised by Anya's lack of tact. I have the feeling that there is still a lot more to be discussed before Tara will let Willow really become a part of her life. As a mother, she does have to put Spencer's wellbeing first, and bringing a new prospective partner into the domestic dynamic is always fraught with peril.

Exactly..and something tells me that this Tara is not a corner-cutter, so you can expect many discussions in their future.

Now onto the issue of the Beamer. It's definitely generous, you have to give Willow marks for that, even if it is just a rental. But then again, Tara did say that she would rather figure it out on her own. Maybe I'm projecting my own issues here, but I foresee this not working the way that I imagine Willow hoped this gesture would work.

you could be onto something there, paul... but don't tell anyone. hehe. No seriously though, don't expect too much angst, cause this is more about the happiness of starting and building a relationship together than anything else.

That's another indication of how lonely Willow is. No matter how close she might be to Buffy, (and we only have the vaguest of ideas about that) Willow still doesn't think that she has a best friend. Maybe I'm just overreacting, that that seems kind of sad.

no...you're not overreacting...I sort of meant it that way. When you think you're all alone, you are.

But no matter what their nature of their relationship, Buffy does give good advice. Willow should rely less on extravagant gestures and more on good old-fashioned honesty.

I find Buffy's good at that.

Thanks for the feedback, Paul! LUV YA!


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Sandman78

Hello Emms, Thanks for the update...It was truly worth the wait
I was sitting here trying to will Tara & Willow to kiss each other senseless ...but I can understand taking it slow (just not at a snails pace hopefuly )
And by the way, you have me on pins and needles wondering what you have in store for them next...perhaps a NC17 rating? A girl can dream, can't she?

Don't worry, things are not going to go torturously slow for these two...I've actually set quite a steady pace here....

Thank you for your feedback!! I appreciate it muchly!
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Thianne

Don’t worry, sweetie. you look grammatically correct to me.

Thank you for the feedback!
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Anna

Shoot, I held my breath as Tara asked the question. When that thought goes through your head about not knowing what you might say until it actually comes out, you never know what to expect. Or maybe that's just personal experience issues... hee-hee

issues huh?

Thank you for the lovely feedback, Anna!

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Useful_Oxymoron

Thanks for the feedback, sweetie. I'm glad you liked the buffy/willow convo at the end...
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highlandlass25

you "heart" me? hehe, thank you. I don't think anyone has ever said that to me before.

I'm glad you like the story...but perhaps you shouldn't be getting behind the wheel...I need all the kittens safe and free from those nasty vehicular manslaughter charges.
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Watty

Lovely banner, Emmy. You have an uncanny knack of drawing children that captures their innocence and sweetness.

Aww, thank you so much!

I like the little steps they're making, including the awkward-ish probing questions and the kissing, oh the kissing. mmmm.

Well, I'm glad you like the kissing...'cos I don't think there's going to be a shortage of it any time soon.

The beginning of a relationship is overwhelming enough -- trying to confirm that there is an attraction, getting a sense of what the other person likes/dislikes, filling in the blanks about history etc -- without the added difficulty of a difference in wealth situation. Tara said specifically

but Willow turns around and has a beamer delivered to Tara's doorstep the next day. Now whether it's bought or rented is pretty much moot. I can imagine Tara feeling awkward about this, and probably react more intensely because she is proud, and Willow matters to her. She may even be thinking about whether she can keep up with Willow if their relationship develops.

Thinking from Willow's point of view though. She's lonely, she doesn't have many friends, but she has success and money. I think that it comes naturally to her, that if there's a problem or situation, just throw money at it. She hasn't thought about how Tara would feel about the help (obligated etc) because she, Willow, doesn't expect anything back from it.

You know...I was writing while reading your feedback the other day, and my first thought after "Hey!! How did she get into my PC and read ahead??" was have a complete sense of where I'm going with this story...which leads me to believe that either A: you're psychic (psychic watty, complete with turban and crystal ball) or B: I'm completely predictable and should cease thinking I'm being clever all together in favor of embracing my ho-hum'ness.

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Henny, you're back and with feedback this time, too! Woo! hehe.

Then I read a part that sounded as it needed more.... maybe a little more kissing..don't yeah think >> I'm not finished yet...with my thinking thoughts just hold on....<< this kiss was just a goodnight kiss at the door..more action please. Yeah Yeah Ginny in the house...but still a little more sparks bring on the passion heat.

I knew your head would get stuck in there. LOL

It's getting pretty serious with all the questions and needing answers. Tara is really in luck that she isn't freaking out Willow. I mean a fast woman like her don't really want to get tide down like that. Off course they want to settle down and have a family just all those questions mostly makes them jumpy and run away so it must be serious.... it's love...L.U.V.

yes you're right...but just because she'd not freaking out right now, doesn't mean there's not plenty of room for the freak out to come later.

I just hope Willow will understand that love isn't bought. It's just there and needs to be build on. A BMW is wooo but so wrong to give now... maybe when they are married just not now!!. It could make Tara think different. Yes she could think that Willow has deeper feelings for her... giving her such a gift. But knowing Tara she probably will think what if our relationship Willow's and hers would work. Will Willow always buy her gifts when it get a little bumpy... or when she hasn't got time.. for her and Spencer. Gifts are nice but it ain't what it's all about... it are the little things that count the most. And beside it could give Tara a feeling like she can't take care of herself... and that's wrong she can. She all ready did that... she can take care of herself and Spencer.

I don't think it will be hard to convince Willow of that.

I'm feeling that there will be a fight in the next update...not a big one just a little one and I think Tara wont except the gift. I'm I right? Yeah Yeah I know you won't tell...just pm me the answer... I mean it

I'm not saying a word...not even a PM word, missy. You'll just have to come back and read the next update.

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WillowsGirlXX Hi there rachel. Welcome aboard. I'm glad you're liking the story! I hope you're all caught up, 'cos I'll be posting the next chapter sometime very soon.

[PancakesinBellies]

Emms, really? My friends say they heart me all the time, though it's usually after I've done something that's unbearably cute or so stupid as to be adorable. Apparently kinda dumb and dreadfully confused = precious. You should really work on that.

[IamLoui]

!!!!!!
!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!
Loved it
!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!
!!!!!!

[DreamLover]

Henny, you're back and with feedback this time, too! Woo! hehe.

I always leave feedback!!! Even if it's a word.... remember FEEDBACKKKKKKKK

You knew my head would get stuck in there....in the no not really kiss department?....ooo you missy you just wait....My name isn't Henny for nothing!!!!

I don't think it will be hard to convince Willow of that.

Wooo naughty Emms.... you mean NC17 wooooo ok your right Tara can convince Willow woohoooo. *Stands up with hands on her hips* When are you posting that chapter?????

Henny

[spells42]

Emms
I've been away for a bit without access to the Internet, and am now just catching up. Sorry that this feedback has to be brief. Loved this update - to be terribly trite, all your updates 'make me smile'. No, but, really.... I always find myself with this soppy smile on my face when I finish one of your updates in this fic.

Looking forward to the lovely big read you have in store for us. Thanks.
Anne

[Shy One]

Ani Difranco, baby!

*slaps myself in the head*
Silly me...I should have known.

Well Emms, I'm sitting here waiting impatiently with the
rest of the kittens for another update.
See?
There I am......waiting.
*sigh*
I just have a hard time waiting when there are smoochies and hot gay
lovin' just around the corner.

Please don't keep us waiting for too long.
You are the goddess of Willow and Tara fanfic!!!

So here's a little worship from your devoted follower.


Shy One