Fic: [AU] Racing The Rain (UPDTED: 4/03/18)

[LonelyTara]

Delightful, romantic, tender, sweet, and vivid. I think this has been my favorite chapter so far. Please update soon, I can't wait to see the Halloween party. And Willow should definitely ditch the clinic--no more Dr. Grabby-Hands. Although he and Morgan could start an a*#hole club.

[wolfsbane]

I saw this on my way to school today, and I was like "aw shucks, I'm going to have to wait," but as fate would have it, there was a fire in the subway so my train was trapped in between stops for, like twenty minutes. FATE wanted me to read this instead of go to class.

Reeaally cute chapter! I especially like the protectiveness about Dr. Grabby-Hands, and the reminder that Tara is america's sweetheart. I can't help but worry, though, that they're going some media attention because of this incident, or get caught smooching.

[bouncer73]

doing my own happy cat dance..well elephant dance..AWESOME update..
I loved how Ralphie ran to Willow and how mr Grabby hands tried to use his so called MAN charm and it failed..

I totally feel Willows Time issue..it wasn't easy going to school, playing softball, friends and working..So I am excited to see what happens...

LOL..I feel like I have Willow Babble going on in my head with so many questions on what could come..but am able to MUTE it and wait till you post the next update..Keep up the great story

[Promthea128]

Awww. Phone call a minute after midnight? So cute. The clinic seems rather public, especially with how quickly Tara was recognized. But they both agreed they were willing to deal with a public coming out, and we all knew it would happen. Hope it doesn't cause our favorite girls to much angst.

“Ms. Maclay, with all due respect, there’s nothing that Ms. Rosenberg can do for you-” He replied, sounding a tad desperate as Tara quickly cut him off.

“Actually, there’s plenty. Thanks for the offer though. Willow?”

Lol. It would be awesome to see Take-Charge-Tara kick Dr. Grabby Hands' ass. Kick Morgan's too.

[vampyregurl73]

Shel,

Great update - loved how Tara blew in and steamrolled "Dr. Grabby-hands" - definitely a "you go girl" moment. Beside ol' grabby-hands needed to be put in check.

I love this story (have I told you that?), it sweet, I love the way you have set Willow and Tara up, and it's fun.

- Ok, going back over this, I somehow missed fridays post (not sure how that happened), but I have to tell you this even missing it, your story is so cohesive it almost didn't matter, everything still flowed - that is the sign of a good story writer, at least to me.

It was in looking over the comments that made me go back to look and find I had missed the entire dinner scene, their agreement that yes their relationship will change things in their lives potentially drastically, but they're something worth having the changes for, and Morgans deal.

So now that I really am all caught up, hurry with more, please!

[wayland]

Great update.


The scene at the clinic was very vivid.

I like the way the celebrity issue gives an undercurrent of tension to the story. Famous people must really curse the invention of the cell phone camera.

This line made me wince a little,

I have a whole team of people at my beckon call and tons of wardrobes

but Willow was oblivious. Nice to see that she won’t let false pride get in the way.

Tara wasn’t used to having to ‘check in’ and secretly hoped that Kelly would find another place to live and soon.

This appealed to me. Perfectly understandable. Tara isn’t saintly, just human and she’s used to having things arranged to her liking.

‘Put down the spatula and step away from the batter!’

You really made me laugh with this.

[willowtaralover]

I'vwe been reading this for a while now but only just gotr the chance to reply on it. THIS STORY IS AWESOME. I really love it to bits there's a lot of sweetness going on in it and I love the way that for WIllow she's just dating a girl and not star and Tara acts the same way round Willow, I.E. that she isn't a star dating but that she is just another girl on a date with the redhead. You have a really good hissable villain in Morgan, lets hope someone kicks her ass for her, preferably Willow. This is definitely one of the best stories I'm reading right now along with Ariels 'How I Met Your Mother'. Keep up the work on the story.

[DaddyCatALSO]

Yes, this version of Tara probably *has* had quite a bit of experience discouraging the guys, whereas it was pretty unfamiliar to canon-Tara.

Interesting that WIllowbabble might be contagious; you're not the fir5st writer here to suggest that..

[deviantART]

awww sweet update !
I really like the whole-Tara-being-jealous--of-Dr-grappy-hands it's cute !
Are you trying to make us addict ? Cause i really want to read more and more !
can't wait to see what will happen next
Thank you

[beautiful_love]

So excited and such a cute update. I really like where this is going and how each of them is so concerned about the other. So Willow and Tara-y.

[BeMyDeputy]

This is such an enjoyable story. It's well written, adorable, and otherwise generally pretty freaking awesome.


Some random thoughts:
I was amused by the thought of Tramp in the "cone of shame." Hee hee. Squirrel!

Like others have mentioned, I feel the pain of "Well shit, Neverland updated right around me." Speaking of, I think Heather may have done some serious damage to the name "Morgan" that you continue here.

Go Tara kicking Dr. Grabby-Hands' ass. And good job, Ralphie, for helping Tara make her point.

[Gaga01]

That vet is such a big jerk!!!

This is a really great story, well-written, funny and so sweet! I love that Willow studies to be a vet!

I'm curious to see if there will be immediate (ish) consequences of Tara walking in the vet's place and brushing off Mr Grabby hands to go with Willow...Can't wait for the next update!

[KioNewgo]

I'll reply when I've stop laughing at the pervy vet :').
lolololololololololololololol.

Right, done . Haven't got much time so I'll make this quick.
Loved the update (how redundant, but I always love them :')).
Grabby made me laugh, though him trying to undermine Willow was annoying >< who does he think he is? Even is Tara was A) Straight and B) A complete whore she wouldn't go for him. No one in their right mind would! Grrr. Go Tara for giving him the brush off .
Eek! Official girlfriends <3 <3 :D. Super happy!
Can't wait for more!

Oh, and I hope you managed to sort out the problems you were having :( *hugs*

[vazy]

I love this story! It's everything a nice story should be gooey 'nd happy 'nd nice with a few more worrysome parts between but then it always gets better!

[Finey_McFine]

Hi Everyone! Thanks for all of the lovely comments and the continued support!


Ariel:
Yay Dibby McDibbersons’!!

I’ve always thought that Tara’s stutter (and shyness in general) is very sexy but I love this moment because Willow knows that Tara feels embarrassed and finds a way to turn it around into something sweet to save Tara’s feelings. Cleverness, kindness, and tenderness – all in one sweet drop.

Sexy indeed! I second, third and forth that! That’s one thing I always loved about Willow…that stutter never phased her. She always went out of her way to make Tara feel comfortable; hence the reason Tara quit stuttering around Willow almost immediately.

Great re-incorporation of Dr. Grabby hands AND love the vampire line!

LOL! I didn’t even plan that, it just kind of evolved when I was writing that part when it occurred to me how creepy he really is.

Thanks for the detailed feedback Ariel, I always look forward to it!!


angie86:

I think I'm in love with this story....Please tell me it's single.

Sorry, it’s taken…I already got those dibs! lol

And I don't know if you watch HIMYM, but if you do, I totally got the slutty pumpkin reference!

YEAH!! Someone got it! I figured they reference Buffy enough, I may as well throw a few HIMYM’s in my fic. There’s another one coming up in the next chapter…let me know if you catch it!

Loved the encounter with Dr. Shit for Brains...I really hope he gets bitten by a very angry animal by the end of this story...

‘Wish granted!’ LOL

Thanks for the great feedback!

SMGOVAN:

i'm a bit worried about the location...seems a bit to public.

Luckily for them, everyone was gathered in the front of the clinic and thinks Tara was there for her dog. This is briefly addressed in the next chapter.

BTW…Ralphie knows where his lovin’ comes from and it’s not from McGrabby!

Thanks for the feedback!

Laragh:

I wanna see Tara kick his ass.

I think a nice axe to the back just might be exactly what the Dr ordered, haha

for the 'girlfriend' slip. I love it when little moments like that pop up!

Yeah, I thought it would be fun to have it come from Tara since babbly slips usually come from Willow.

Thanks for the feedback!


xlaurax1:

Slutty pumpkin and Pirate and Parrot costumes? Little HIMYM referencing going on there?

Hahaha…yeah you caught it! There will be another in the next chapter as well

Damn right there's something that Willow can do for Tara that GH can't!!

I can think of several right off the top of my head actually…

Could Willow be any more adorable?

Doubtful, but she can always try!

Thanks for reading and for the great detailed feedback!!!


zampsa19752001:
[quoteI really liked willow's 12:01am phone call [/quote]
Yeah, me too. It seemed like a Willowly thing to do

I'm really worried about Willow's huge course load.

I think Willow is a little worried about it as well. The clinic is not a mandatory thing, but it is helpful in getting ‘clinical’ hours for vet school. At least that’s what I discovered in my research, lol. She makes a decision about it in the next chapter.


As always…thanks for the feedback!



wimpy0729:

I'm so excited that Tara invited her to the party, but I'll admit I'm a little anxious to see how it all turns out.

I kinda feel like they’re walking this incredibly thin line between in and out. They’ve been very lucky up to this point, but you know, a lot of celebs are pretty good at hiding in plain sight.

I REALLY loved how she shut down Dr. Grabby/Asshole. Ugh, he really didn't get it. God, he's not just an asshole, but a dumb asshole. Tara managed to handle that pretty smoothly, but I'm sure she's had plenty of practice.

My favorite part of that whole interaction was Willow behind him rolling her eyes. I could totally picture her getting that indignant ‘look’ on her face, lol He really is a dumb ass

With all those people snapping pictures, I have a feeling their nice, normal relationship is about to change very soon.

Like I said above, they’ve been lucky, but it’s bound to run out eventually!

Thanks! More coming up!!


LonleyTara:

I think this has been my favorite chapter so far

Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it! It was a fun chapter to write.

I can't wait to see the Halloween party.

I’ve already written a draft and I guarantee much fun!

Although he and Morgan could start an a*#hole club

They will soon have a few new members…

Thanks for the feedback!


Wolfsbane:

FATE wanted me to read this instead of go to class.

That’s because fate LOVES Willow and Tara!!!! lol

I can't help but worry, though, that they're going some media attention because of this incident

They definitely do! There were a lot of cameras in the clinic…see below

Thanks for the comments!

bouncer73:

I loved how Ralphie ran to Willow and how mr Grabby hands tried to use his so called MAN charm and it failed..

...miserably! But the dope STILL didn’t get it, he’s such a tool.

I totally feel Willows Time issue..it wasn't easy going to school, playing softball, friends and working

Me too! Willow has some big decisions coming up and the vet clinic will be the least of her worries. ~Foreshadowing~ lol

Thanks for the feedback!!

Promthea128:

The clinic seems rather public, especially with how quickly Tara was recognized

That’s true, they are definitely teetering on the edge, but…well…just read the next chapter, lol

It would be awesome to see Take-Charge-Tara kick Dr. Grabby Hands' ass. Kick Morgan's too.

Two for the price on one!!

Thanks for reading and for the feedback!


Vampyregurl73

love this story (have I told you that?), it sweet, I love the way you have set Willow and Tara up, and it's fun.

- Ok, going back over this, I somehow missed fridays post (not sure how that happened), but I have to tell you this even missing it, your story is so cohesive it almost didn't matter, everything still flowed - that is the sign of a good story writer, at least to me.

Thanks Heather!! I really appreciate that!!!!!!!



[u]wayland

This line made me wince a little: but Willow was oblivious. Nice to see that she won’t let false pride get in the way.

It’s interesting that you saw it that way and understandable. Tara, thus far, has been pretty humble and down to earth in regards to her celebrity status. In fact, Willow considers it secondary, but only because Tara has gone out of her way to make Willow comfortable. At some point, they’ll have to deal with that big pink elephant in the room.

This appealed to me. Perfectly understandable. Tara isn’t saintly, just human and she’s used to having things arranged to her liking.

Very true! She’s also used to living alone and having privacy. Now she has to worry about closing her bedroom door, etc.

~Again I say…Tara will NOT be making pancakes in this fic! Maybe I should put a warning in the author’s notes, lol

I’m glad you liked it and thanks for the feedback!!


willowtaralover

THIS STORY IS AWESOME.

Thank you so much! That’s really sweet of you!!

I love the way that for WIllow she's just dating a girl and not star and Tara acts the same way round Willow

The turning point, if you can call it that, was in the very beginning when Willow didn’t recognize Tara. It was at that moment that Tara realized that Willow was different and that she could just be herself.

This is definitely one of the best stories I'm reading right now

Awwww…thank you!!! That’s so sweet and much appreciated!


Thanks for reading and for the feedback!


DaddyCatAlso

this version of Tara probably *has* had quite a bit of experience discouraging the guys

Yep! When you’re America’s ‘girl next door’ you tend to get a lot of potential suitors. So, it’s probably like an Olympic sport for her, lol

As always, thanks for your continued support!


deviantART

really like the whole-Tara-being-jealous--of-Dr-grappy-hands it's cute !

I thought it would be fun to see a jealous Tara for a change!

Thanks for the feedback!

beautiful_love
Thanks, cute and sweet is always good!!

Thanks for the feedback!!


BeMyDeputy

Like others have mentioned, I feel the pain of "Well shit, Neverland updated right around me." Speaking of, I think Heather may have done some serious damage to the name "Morgan" that you continue here.

I know, right? When I was looking for characters names, I brought up a website with baby girl names. I closed my eyes and pointed…then actually laughed out loud when I saw which one my finger landed on. Then I figured…what the heck. I might as well make her a pain in the ass…because there was no way, in my mind anyway, that she could be anything other, lol.

Thanks for the kind words! It means a lot that you like the story and find it well written!!


Gaga01

That vet is such a big jerk!!!

Yes, that he is. He’s a pompous ass with a gigantic inflated ego! Luckily Tara politely shuts him down pretty fast.

I'm curious to see if there will be immediate (ish) consequences of Tara walking in the vet's place and brushing off Mr Grabby hands to go with Willow

I have a sneaking suspicion that Willow might just catch the brunt of this.

Thanks for the feedback!!!

KioNewgo

Grabby made me laugh, though him trying to undermine Willow was annoying >< who does he think he is? Even is Tara was A) Straight and B) A complete whore she wouldn't go for him. No one in their right mind would!

And this made me laugh!! You are correct, although if you remember from early on, the receptionist and other female staffers did referred to him as the ‘hot doc.’ I guess it’s a clinic chock full of straight whores, lol

I hope you managed to sort out the problems you were having

*hugs…Right back at cha! I’ve been there, done that and it sucks! I’m sorry that you have to go through it, but I guarantee you’ll come out a stronger person in the end.

As always, thanks for the feedback!


vazy
Thanks for the feedback!! I’m glad you like the story!

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: PG13

DISCLAIMER: Willow, Tara and any other BtVS characters, as well as some random dialog, belong to Mutant Enemy.

SUMMARY: Totally AU, Willow and Tara Meet with not so surprising results! Set in LA with lots of W/T fluff and a little teeny tiny bit of angst, but no Hellmouthyness. Just good old regular day-to-day drama.



FEEDBACK: OK; Any glaring issues…please send me a PM!

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Hello Kittens! I know I said I’d post 2x/week, however, it’s tough with work and family, etc. So, I will stick to my Sunday postings and if I have time, I will do a mid week post as well. Consider it a bonus! This chapter is so-so, I’m not 100% thrilled with it, but if I keep revising…I’ll never get past this point. So, here it is.

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

Chapter 15: Resolve


After eating lunch in a secluded area of a small park that Willow had led them to, they returned to the clinic to find a small mob of fans. There appeared to be more people in the waiting room and about a half dozen Paparazzi outside the front door.

They peeked out the tiny window of the door that led to the back of the clinic. Tara sighed and turned to Willow, “Welcome to my world,” she said as she pulled her sunglasses over her eyes and picked up Ralphie, preparing to make her exit.

“I would kiss you but…too many prying eyes,” The blonde whispered to Willow as she glanced behind her spotting a nosey Dr. Grabby eying them curiously.

“It’s ok, I understand. Wow, this is kinda crazy,” Willow commented, as she rubbed her forehead, slightly overwhelmed, “Will you be ok or do you want me to walk you out?”

“I’ll be fine Sweetie, but thanks for the offer. So, call me tonight?”

“I will definitely call my girlfriend tonight!” Whispered the beaming redhead.

“Bye Will.”

“Bye Tare, and thanks again for lunch.”

Willow stood unmoving, still peeking through the small window watching as Tara fastidiously worked her way through the growing crowd of fans and photographers, finally reaching her car and driving away. She sighed wistfully as a dreamy smile graced her lips, reveling in that floaty sensation she so enjoyed whenever she was around Tara. Of course, that came to an abrupt end when she turned and ran straight into the arms of Dr. Grabby himself.

“Whoa Willow, careful or you and I may have to get a room,” he grinned and winked as Willow pushed him off.

“I highly doubt that Doctor.”

“So, all buddy-buddy with Princess Maclay, are we? Impressive, I didn’t peg you for a groupie, but then again I had no idea she hung around with college kids either. I’ve met tons of these Hollywood starlet types, bottle blondes all trying to make the most of their 15 minutes. ” Grabby was doing his best to get a rise out of Willow. Which seemed to be working for a brief moment, as he noticed her jaw set and her eyes begin to narrow in what could only be described and her best ‘you’re dead to me’ look.

Fortunately for him, Willow was much too distracted with random ‘I have a girlfriend’ thoughts as her facial muscles relaxed and she began to smile, much to his chagrin.

“Actually, I don’t know her all that well, but she’s nice and seems very down to earth,” Willow figured it was none of his business and did her best to deflect his accusations.

“I don’t know, you seemed pretty chummy to me,” Grabby sneered, fishing for more information.

Willow decided that she’d had enough and quickly tried to change the subject, “By the way, I’ve been meaning to talk to you. I wanted to let you know that I’m taking a break from the clinic. I’m not sure how long, but my class load is pretty heavy and I just don’t have the time to be here as well.”

“Ah, giving up the important stuff to focus on your sports career, are we?”

“Well, I am on an athletic scholarship,” reminding him sarcastically. Asshole.

“Oh that’s right, I guess I forgot. I don’t pay much attention to the trivial side of life, I guess I’m just too busy saving lives,” he smirked, still doing his best to get Willow riled up.

Since the first time Willow rebuffed his advances, he’d made it his life’s mission to annoy her. The truth of the matter was, he was a tad intimated by her intellect. She’d called him out on several important procedures, embarrassing him, but also saving the lives of the animals in the process. It irritated him to no end that a measly college softball player, with no prior med school training, could be smarter than him.

It was clear to Willow that the conversation needed to end before she did get angry, so she decided to shut him down once and for all, “Well, that ‘trivial side of life’ did get me a free college education, an Olympic gold medal, not to mention my picture on the cover of Sports Illustrated and a visit to the White House. So, I can’t complain too much. Anyway, I have a few things to do before I leave for class. Let me know if you need me for anything.” She smiled smugly, turned and walked away. Plus, the ‘starlet’ belongs to ME! Suck on that! Jackass.

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

Tara’s week was moving at a snails pace since her impromptu lunch with Willow the day before. She was sitting in her dressing, stretched out across the couch, mindlessly leafing through a magazine and texting with Willow when she heard a knock at the door and a familiar voice.

“Come in! Hey Shan, What’s up?” Tara sat up and greeted one of her co-stars as she entered the room.

“Hey Tara, are you busy? I just wanted to run some lines.”

“Uh, o-kaay, this is new,” Tara replied, curiously. It wasn’t like her co-star to just drop in to run lines. They usually already knew their parts and never needed to review them outside of table readings and rehearsals.

“Ok, so I don’t really need to run lines,” Shanna was nervously ringing her hands together, as she sat in the chair opposite Tara. “It’s just that, you’ve been kind of keeping to yourself lately. I was just wanted to make sure everything was ok and I feel as your ‘self appointed’ best friend, that I should know what’s going on.”

Tara laughed, Shanna wasn’t close to being Tara’s best friend, but they were fairly close ‘work’ friends and Tara was comfortable with her. She closed her magazine and shot a quick message to Willow that she had to go. She sat her cell on the couch next to her and noticed that Shanna was craning her neck to try and catch a glimpse of exactly whom she was messaging.

“Nosey much?” Tara quipped.

Shanna smiled, slightly embarrassed at being caught looking, “So, who’s the lucky girl that has you all smiles these days?”

Tara sat forward and pulled her knees up, wrapping her arms around them. “Just someone that I met recently. She’s um, pretty fantastic actually,” Tara leaned forward and rested her chin on her knees.

“Someone is enamored. So, come on! Who is she? Do I know her?”

“Nope, not in the biz, she’s a student at UCLA.” Tara said, unable to hide her dreamy eyes whenever Willow was the subject.

“Oh, so she’s not…she’s a college student? How exactly did you meet?” Shanna asked curiously, leaning forward towards Tara and resting her elbows on her knees.

“She found Ralphie w-when he went m-missing.” Tara stuttered. Damin it. Why did I tell her anything? Stupid, stupid!

“Um ok, I see.”

“See what?” Tara said, her hackles coming up.

“Tara, please don’t take this the wrong way but how well do you know this girl?”

Tara sighed, “Well enough. Shan, what’s your point?” Tara sat up straighter and squared her shoulders.

“Tara come on, you know how people are, especially when they’re not one of us. They’re, how do I put this…opportunistic, I guess.”

“Not one of us? Do you even hear yourself?” Tara’s voice rose about two octaves, passing up irritated and sliding straight into pissed off.

“That’s not what I meant. I’m just saying, be careful…that’s all.”

“Yeah, I think I know what you’re saying. Plus, I’ve had so many great experiences with people like us.” Tara was struggling with the sarcasm that laced her voice, but wasn’t having much luck. Calm down Tara, you have to work with this girl.[i]

“Tara, are you sure she [i]found Ralphie? Are you sure this just wasn’t a set up to get close to you or something?”

Tara sat up a little straighter and looked the girl right in the eye, “Shan I appreciate your concern, really, but it’s not necessary. She didn’t ‘dog-nap’ Ralphie and hatch some clandestine plot to get close to me. She’s not a stalker. Listen, I’m really sorry but I have some things I need to do before I’m called on set again, so…” Tara rose from the couch, that being the signal that it was time for Shanna to leave.

“Ok, well I guess I’ll see you on set then,” Shanna stood and was unceremoniously ushered out the door.

“Yeah ok, see ya,” Tara all but slammed the door behind her. She took a deep breath turning to lean her back against the door and shook her head. Unbelievable. Does it really have to be this hard?

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

Willow had been in the library for most of the afternoon when she and Tara had started to flirtatiously text one another. The flirty text messages had gone on for about an hour, until Tara suddenly had to go. Willow had about 45 minutes before practice, but was not motivated in the least to get there early or to go at all for that matter. What she really wanted was to go find Tara, but she knew it was even a remote possibility, so instead she gathered her books, stuffing everything into her backpack and headed out of the library to get some fresh air. Once outside, she found the nearest bench and plopped down. Deciding that this was just as good a time as any to call her brother.

“Hey Hunt, it’s Will!”

“Hey lil’ sis! What’s up? Everything OK, I mean aren’t you supposed to be at practice right about now?” He asked.

“In about 45 minutes. Time difference, remember?” Willow said, reminding her brother of the same thing nearly every time they talked. “So, how is everyone?”

“Oh you know, same ole’ same. Rach is hormonal and driving Jeff crazy, Milo and Stella are driving Eli crazy, Eli is driving Mom and Dad crazy and Mom and Dad are driving me crazy. Oh and Grey is dating a new flavor of the week. Don’t you wish you were here?”

Willow began to laugh and even though their lives sounded full of drama, she missed her family dearly. She’d always believed that there was no place that she’d rather be than home with her family and her horses…that is until about two weeks ago.

“So little sis, to what do I owe the pleasure of this call today?” Hunter inquired. He knew his baby sister well and instinctively knew something was up.

“Why does there have to be a reason? Can’t I just call and say ‘Hi’ to my big brother?” Willow countered.

“Um hmm, yeah right. You never call me in the middle of the day to just chat. Come on, what’s going on?”

“Ok, ok. So, I met someone.” Willow blurted out suddenly. The truth of the matter was that Willow had been dying to tell her brother, but wanted to wait and see where things were going with the blonde first. She desperately needed to talk to someone other that her college friends. She needed support and some positive feedback.

“Really??”

“Yeah and she’s amazing! She’s smart, funny and really, really beautiful.” Willow could feel her face begin to flush as she talked about the blonde.

“So, what’s the catch?”

Willow sighed, He knows me too well. “So, if I tell you, you have to promise not to tell anyone, period. Promise?”

“Ok, I promise. Now come on, spill. What, does she have three arms of something?”

“SothegirlI’mdatingingisTaramclay.” She mumbled, in one long garbled sentence.

“Uh, What?”

Willow cleared her throat and took a deep breath, “I said, the girl I’m dating is Tara Maclay.” She was met with dead silence on the other end of the phone and then a few loud noises, as she could hear Hunter yelling that he dropped the phone and to hold on.

“Did I hear you correctly? Did you say Tara Maclay? As in, the actress Tara Maclay? As in, uber famous blonde haired, blue eyed Goddess Tara Maclay? As in-”

“Yes, and stop gushing over my girlfriend. You’re creeping me out.”

“Girlfriend? That’s not dating Willow, that’s relationship. I…I don’t even know what to say,” Hunter stammered, “First, I had no idea she was even gay. Second, did you sign her up? Are you finally getting that toaster oven?”

“You’re such a shithead.” Willow quipped.

“I have tons of questions Sis, but why don’t you just start from the beginning.”

Hunter listened intently, while Willow spent the next few minutes filling him in on everything that had transpired in the last couple weeks. She recounted everything, from finding Ralphie in the park to yesterdays surprise lunch date. She could always count on Hunter to listen and not judge. He was her rock.

“Wow, it sounds like you two are pretty serious and she sounds like a great girl, err woman, that is. ”

“Hunter, she’s incredible, a-and we have this amazing connection. I can’t explain it, but it’s like we were meant to be together. I get her, she gets me, and I feel like I’ve known her my whole life. I want to be around her constantly and when we’re not together I can hardly function. It’s like my heart hurts.”

“I’m happy for you Will. But you know, once it comes out. The shit’s gonna-”

“-hit the rotating cooling device? Yeah, so I’ve been told. That’s why I wanted to tell you, because if it comes out before I get a chance for everyone to meet Tara and get used to the idea, I at least wanted you to know.”

“What, so I could say I knew and didn’t tell anyone? Gee, thanks!” Hunter said, sarcastically.

“No, because you’re my best friend and I at least wanted you to know. Plus, if you go online and Google, ‘Tara Maclay: pet clinic,’ I’m in a few of the pictures, but it’s completely innocuous. We’re just standing in the lobby talking. They think she was bringing her dog in for a check up or something, so they just ignored me. I’m just worried that if we continue to be photographed together, they’ll start to wonder and-.”

“So Will, what’s the plan? I know you have one, you always do.”

“Damn it, that’s not fair!” She chuckled knowingly, “I want to bring her home for Thanksgiving. I haven’t asked her yet, but I think she’ll agree. That way, everyone can meet her and after that when we go public, I don’t care. What do you think?”

“Well, that sounds like a good idea and I can’t think of a better one. Unfortunately, it’s still a few weeks away. Can you keep it under wraps that long? I mean, don’t the paparazzi swarm around her 24/7?”

“Not as much as you’d think, although, the deal at the clinic yesterday with the mini-mob was a little unnerving. They just seemed to apprear out of nowhere, we were only gone for about 30 minutes tops. I can only imagine what it’s going to be like when they find out. I mean, she’s ‘America’s Sweetheart’, the preverbal ‘girl next door.’ So how do you think everyone will react?” Willow asked, nervously chewing on a fingernail.

“As in the world or our family? Because I think the world may just stop spinning when they find out that ‘the girl next door’ is more into the sister of ‘the boy next door,” Hunter paused for a second, as Willow giggled, “As for our family, well let’s see: Rachael will probably faint, Jeff will say something incredibly stupid, Greyson will hit on her immediately, Elijah will have googly eyes, but try to pretend he doesn’t care in front of Stella who will immediately become blindly jealous, hate Tara with a vengeance, and then stomp out of the room for effect. Dad will probably love her, but your biggest hurdle will be Mom. You know that, right?”

“Yep, definitely going to be a challenge. Especially since the last time we actually talked about my sexuality, she mentioned that as soon as I was out of this ‘environment that was ripe with sexual experimentation,’ that I would be ready to focus on a ‘real’ relationship and perhaps settle down. With a ‘nice Jewish boy,’ of course,” Willow stated sarcastically as Hunter snorted with laughter.

“Well, I guess you could, if that boy wasn’t Jewish or a boy and had long blonde hair and blue eyes.” He said, as he continued to giggle.

“Well, she’s just going to have to get used to my gayness ‘cuz it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Hunt, I want to say that I don’t care if she likes Tara or not, and I want to say that I don’t need her approval, but…” Willow’s voice drifted, as if she couldn’t bring herself to say the words out loud.

“Will, I know. I live here remember? I deal with our mother daily and in her world, denial ain’t just a river. No girl will ever be good enough.”

“Except for Jeff,” Willow said, causing both of them to burst out laughing.

“Yeah, he is an awesome wife, isn’t he?” Hunter exclaimed, still laughing.

Rachael’s husband Jeff was ‘the nice Jewish boy’ that her Mom envisioned for her and she took every available opportunity to point that out to Willow. Sheila Rosenberg loved and supported Willow in her many endeavors over the years from horseback riding to gymnastics to softball. She acknowledged Willow as her own person and was proud of her many accomplishments. Unfortunately, she couldn’t bring herself to accept the fact that her perfect youngest daughter was a lesbian. Her father had accepted it and they’d had many long conversations, as they both were sorting things out, as long as Willow was happy...then he was happy. Her siblings had been accepting as well, her mother was the only hold out.

Willow had begun walking across campus sometime ago and was now standing outside the practice field doorway to the locker rooms. Willow just happened to glance up and saw Morgan walking towards the door from the opposite direction with Sarah. The girl smiled and waved at Willow. The redhead simply turned her back and moved a few steps further away as the other two entered the locker rooms. Willow had yet to speak to Morgan since their confrontation and had no intention of doing so now.

“I’m sorry Hunt, but I’ve gotta go. Practice starts in 10 minutes and I still need to change.”

“It’s cool, I’ve gotta jet as well. So, call me and let me know what’s going on. You know, if you guys are coming. I think if Tara says yes, then you should at least tell everyone that your bringing someone, a special someone. Definitely do not say who or it will become a mob scene that would put yesterday to shame. Greyson and Rachael will invite everyone they know,” he said with a chuckle.

“Will do Bro and Hunt, thanks for listening and supporting me. I love you.”

“I Love you too Will. See ya.”

“Bye.”

She closed her phone and headed in to change for practice, feeling stronger and more confident than she had in awhile. He brother had given her a strong dose of just what she needed…resolve.

[Promthea128]

DIBS!

I really hope Tara can meet Willow's family before they're outed, but it seems kinda doubtful. Love Hunter, and now I wanna meet all the rest.

[Grimm]

Morgan...Shanna... Shanna.. Morgan..same difference...Bitches!...And pencil dick Dr. Grabby hands?...pfft, what a joke.. intimidated much? I'm glad Willow has an ally in Hunter. Because, everyone else seems be be rooting against our girls...Give me some and gay love in the next update please!!

[LonelyTara]

Intriguing. I feel like we're being set up for angst on multiple fronts here with Tara's co-star, the press, Willow's mom, Dr. Grabby-Hands, and Morgan. You were right, definitely some additions to the a&*hole club. I enjoyed the conversation between Willow and her brother, it might've been enjoyable to get more of a sense of what Willow was thinking about as they spoke, maybe even her imagining the expressions on her brother's face. Right now I don't feel like I have a clear idea of what he looks like. Of course, that just builds my anticipation even more for Thanksgiving. I really hope that Tara agrees to go back home with Willow. Maybe they can have a bit more privacy. This is a great fic, and I hope you know that we'll all hang in there between updates. We'll await eagerly (if not patiently, LOL) for an update whenever you can make one. You may have noticed my own posting schedule has slowed pretty drastically, you're not alone!

[JustSkipIt]

Sorry to have missed fbing the last part. Tara was sweet to come by the clinic. Interesting that Willow's thinking she needs to leave the clinic.

New part: again, very sweet and interesting the way the mob can form so quickly. It seems that it's all starting. The interaction between Willow and Grabby was well done. I particularly liked her answer that it seemed to be paying for college, got her a gold medal, the cover of SI, and trip to the White house. Take that Dr. Asshole.

Hmmm. It's hard to say what I think about Tara's friend. I could imagine that she has good intentions but maybe she's gotten burned in the past? I think it's all a good warning to be careful because it does seem like this will be a major thing in the news when it comes out. And of course, they're sort of just quietly and privately falling in love with each other. I really am wondering about the costume party. I mean, I can only assume it's an industry thing with some press, etc. and Tara and Willow will be there together.

Willow's conversation with her brother was lovely and touching. I have a very close relationship with my brother so it's nice to read something like that.

Anyway, I need to get the kids to bed but I'll be waiting for a weekend update but hoping for a mid-week...

[wolfsbane]

Ooo, totes excited. Shanna is the celeb version of Morgan, of course, but on a more Prince v. Pauper scale. Does Shanna have the hots for our dear Tara?

Dr. Grabby Hands strikes again! I hope that once they come out, Tara will get all large with the butch and put "Dr. Pencil dick" in his place. LOL.

Can't wait for the next chapter!

[wimpy0729]

Oh, thank you so much for the update.

Firstly and foremost, I just want to say what a good job I think you are doing of writing that asshole doctor. You're making us all hate him, and deservedly so. Man, how unprofessional can he be? That's the type of person I think Willow should limit conversation with and share absolutely no information about Tara. God, he just kept fishing for stuff and trying to piss her off. I don't think I would have been that nice to him, but I LOVED how she put him in his place with the actual importance of her school/athletic scholarship info and just how NOT trivial it actually is. May I just say again, what an ASSHOLE.

And now it seems Tara has a "concerned best friend", AKA just a nosy bitch. Why does everyone think they have to get in everybody else's business? That Shan needs to get a life and stay out of Tara's.

The glowing part of the update for me was Willow's conversation with her brother. So nicely done, very realistic and very heartwarming. I'm glad Willow at least has someone like that to talk to right now. At least he's a safe zone for her to share something so important with. Now I'm so excited to see if Tara goes to visit her family and what interesting things that will entail. If she goes, I hope Willow preps her on what to expect from Sheila. It's always scary times meeting the parents.

More soon please. I can't wait to see what happens next!


Wimpy

[Laragh]

So, love Hunter, hate Shanna.

And Dr. Grabby-Hands (heretofore known as 'Pencil Dick')?

I really loved Willow's interaction with her brother though. It's so nice to see her with some good family!

Is it too much to ask for some familial/girlfriend meeting before the angsty-angst-angst?

Great update!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I hope Shanna & Morgan never meet and start to plan together because they can do serious damage to Willow & Tara... I'm really glad that Willow put Dr. Rectal Cranial Inversion (aka Head Up Your Ass) in his place... I really liked Willow's call to Hunter. I'm really glad that most members of Willow's family are ok with her gayness... I kinda hope that Willow's & Tara's celebrity gay wedding sometime in the future will finally make Sheila see the light and accept that Willow is indeed gay and happily stays that way...

[willowtaralover]

“I’ll be fine Sweetie, but thanks for the offer. So, call me tonight?”

“I will definitely call my girlfriend tonight!” Whispered the beaming
redhead.

Aww, this is just such a sweet little moment between the girls.


It was clear to Willow that the conversation needed to end before she did get angry, so she decided to shut him down once and for all, “Well, that ‘trivial side of life’ did get me a free college education, an Olympic gold medal, not to mention my picture on the cover of Sports Illustrated and a visit to the White House. So, I can’t complain too much. Anyway, I have a few things to do before I leave for class. Let me know if you need me for anything.” She smiled smugly, turned and walked away. Plus, the ‘starlet’ belongs to ME! Suck on that! Jackass.

GO WILLOW, GO WILLOW, GO WILLOW YOU RAWK GIRL

What a dick Dr. Grabby is. He is the kind of male that gives all men a bad name. Even when they don't deserve it.

This is just a guess, but is Hunt the Xander of this story, the brother character.

Is it just me or do I sense a triumvirate of bad luck heading the girls way in the cumulative shape of Dr. Grabby, Morgan and Mrs. Rosenberg. Strange but they're all people Willow knows, is it a conspiracy I wonder????

And what's going on with Shanna, is she lusting after our blonde blue eyed goddess or does she genuinely care.

All will be revealed in the next enthralling installment, I hope

[Ariel]

Hey Shel,

She sighed wistfully as a dreamy smile graced her lips, reveling in that floaty sensation she so enjoyed whenever she was around Tara. Of course, that came to an abrupt end when she turned and ran straight into the arms of Dr. Grabby himself.

“Whoa Willow, careful or you and I may have to get a room,” he grinned and winked as Willow pushed him off.

“I highly doubt that Doctor.”

Really sharp writing here, Shel! I love the dreamy prose leading right into the horror-fest that is Dr. Grabby. GREAT name for him and truly a sleaze-fest; definitely someone you LOVE to HATE!!! You create his nastiness in 12 words and Willow puts him in his place beautifully with her stiff language and some well-placed italics. Usually I just love the story and believe me, THAT hasn’t changed! But I wanted to take a moment and just salute your writing skill.

Okay, moving on! Love how quickly you sketched Willow’s family. You gave us a real sense of vibrant, interesting individuals very economically.

Personal notes, SHANA IS A BITCH!

Dr. Grabby Hands needs the major smack-down (tell me that will happen!) I’m actually sorry Willow is leaving the clinic because I love their interactions!

Also wonder what Morgan (La Fey, the Witch uh make that Bitch) is up to!

You’ve got me, Shel (and several hundred other fans!) so keep it coming!

Ariel

[beautiful_love]

So excited to see the update. I love the relationship between Willow and Hunter. It's always nice to see a great sibling relationship as well as family support. Can't wait for the next update.

[bouncer73]

WOW...I feel it..I feel the angst coming..I am already on the edge of my chair waiting for the next update and can't wait to see which way your take this story...
So far this story has been awesome. I can't wait to see what happens when Tara meets Willows family and how things go from there.

I said it before and I will say it again.. I LOVE THIS STORY..keep up the great work

[Finey_McFine]

Hi Everyone! Thanks for all of the lovely comments and the continued support!


Promthea128:
Yay Dibs!!

I really hope Tara can meet Willow's family before they're outed, but it seems kinda doubtful. Love Hunter, and now I wanna meet all the rest.

It does seem that way, but we’ll have to wait and see. They only have to make it 3 more weeks!!!

Thanks for the feedback!!!


SMGOVAN:

Morgan...Shanna... Shanna.. Morgan..same difference...Bitches!...And pencil dick Dr. Grabby hands?...pfft, what a joke.. intimidated much?

Hahaha…this whole rant made me lol

I'm glad Willow has an ally in Hunter. Because, everyone else seems be be rooting against our girls

It does seem that way doesn’t it? Lol They do have other allies, Pam, Kelly, and Stacey…no real issues. ‘Pencil dick’ doesn’t count cuz he’s just an idiot and has no clue what’s going on and that just leaves Morgan & Shanna. Roughly 20% of their friends, causing 80% of their problems!

Thanks for the great feedback!


LonelyTara:

I feel like we're being set up for angst on multiple fronts here with Tara's co-star, the press, Willow's mom, Dr. Grabby-Hands, and Morgan.

Well, I don’t think we have to worry about Mc Grabby for a while with Willow leaving the clinic. I don’t think it’s the last we’ll see of him though, I’m sure he’ll make another grand appearance at some point, lol. The others pose a definite threat, each one having the power to bring down their house of cards at any given moment.

I enjoyed the conversation between Willow and her brother, it might've been enjoyable to get more of a sense of what Willow was thinking about as they spoke, maybe even her imagining the expressions on her brother's face. Right now I don't feel like I have a clear idea of what he looks like.

I see your point here and I might just go back and re-write a little bit of this. Like I said in the notes…I did struggle a bit with this chapter. As for what Hunter and the rest of the clan look like, I didn’t divulge on purpose. I’m leaving that for Thanksgiving.

I really hope that Tara agrees to go back home with Willow.

I think that Tara would agree to go to Siberia, if it meant getting out of Dodge, lol

Thanks for the feedback!


JustSkipIt:

interesting the way the mob can form so quickly. It seems that it's all starting

All it takes is a few people with cell phones and wham-o! I think Tara’s short stint under the radar is pretty much over.

It's hard to say what I think about Tara's friend. I could imagine that she has good intentions but maybe she's gotten burned in the past?

At this point it’s hard to say what her deal is. I think Tara may have over reacted just a tad, but given the circumstances with Morgan and Dr. Grabby it’s understandable.

I really am wondering about the costume party. I mean, I can only assume it's an industry thing with some press, etc. and Tara and Willow will be there together.

It is most definitely an industry event and they will be together-together. I guarantee you’ll love it though!!

Anyway, I need to get the kids to bed

I so miss the days of mine going to bed so early. I’ll be lucky if they’re are down before midnight tonight…no school tomorrow.

Glad you got caught up and thanks as always for the feedback!


wolfsbane:

Does Shanna have the hots for our dear Tara?

Hahaha…I doubt it. I think she’s just snotty.

Dr. Grabby Hands strikes again! I hope that once they come out, Tara will get all large with the butch and put "Dr. Pencil dick" in his place. LOL.

He’s really awful, isn’t he? With Willow leaving the clinic, we won’t see him for a while, but I promise he will return at some point and I do have plans for him!


Thanks the feedback!!!


wimpy0729:

I just want to say what a good job I think you are doing of writing that asshole doctor. You're making us all hate him

Some of the hatred flowing through the feedback is actually quite shocking! lol

And now it seems Tara has a "concerned best friend", AKA just a nosy bitch. Why does everyone think they have to get in everybody else's business? That Shan needs to get a life and stay out of Tara's.

The issue with ‘being Tara’ is that everyone wants a piece of her. They want in and they don’t care how they get there. I think that Shanna saw this as an open door. With Willow, her ‘friend’ drama is quite different. There’s an actual reason behind it.

The glowing part of the update for me was Willow's conversation with her brother. So nicely done, very realistic and very heartwarming. I'm glad Willow at least has someone like that to talk to right now. At least he's a safe zone for her to share something so important with.

Thank you for saying that, because it was exactly what I was trying to convey. Willow is real and her relationships are real, especially with her family. Tara, well, not so much. Not that she’s a fake, she just doesn’t have the experience of having strong family bonds. She has good friends in Pam and Kelly, however, they are also working relationships and she tends to keep them at arms length. But…now she has Willow and by default she’ll get the family as well. It’s definitely going to get interesting!

As always…thanks for the feedback!



Laragh:

Dr. Grabby-Hands (heretofore known as 'Pencil Dick'

Hahaha…I love it! It seems to be repeating theme, lol

I really loved Willow's interaction with her brother though. It's so nice to see her with some good family!

Yes, it is a nice change of pace! Sheila is questionable, but I promise fun sibling interaction!

Is it too much to ask for some familial/girlfriend meeting before the angsty-angst-angst?

Who said there’s going to be ‘angsty-angst-angst???’

Thanks for the feedback!


zampsa19752001:

I hope Shanna & Morgan never meet and start to plan together because they can do serious damage to Willow & Tara

OMG! That would be disastrous! I doubt Shanna would lower herself to ‘college student’ level…she’s much too important! lol

I'm really glad that Willow put Dr. Rectal Cranial Inversion (aka Head Up Your Ass) in his place

Bahahahahaha…that made me lol!

I kinda hope that Willow's & Tara's celebrity gay wedding sometime in the future will finally make Sheila see the light and accept that Willow is indeed gay and happily stays that way

Now that’s a wedding I’d like to attend!!

Thanks for the comments!


willowtaralover:

GO WILLOW, GO WILLOW, GO WILLOW YOU RAWK GIRL

I do believe that he went just a little too far, lol. It’s a good thing that my Willow doesn’t have magical powers, because I suspect he might just have ended up sharing that mouse wheel with Amy!

What a dick Dr. Grabby is. He is the kind of male that gives all men a bad name. Even when they don't deserve it.

And this is why Hunter is a sweetie, to balance things out a little. I wanted to make sure W/T didn’t come across as ‘man haters.’ Even though Grabby is SO EASY to hate! Grr!!

Is it just me or do I sense a triumvirate of bad luck heading the girls way in the cumulative shape of Dr. Grabby, Morgan and Mrs. Rosenberg. Strange but they're all people Willow knows, is it a conspiracy I wonder????

Wow…great word! Yeah, it’s kinda like the Bermuda Triangle of potential angst. Though, I don’t think that Grabby is a true threat, he’s more of just a general annoyance. Plus, with Willow taking leave at the clinic, he’s neutered…so to speak, haha. As for the others, including Shanna…we’ll just have to wait and see!

Thanks for the feedback!!


Ariel:

Really sharp writing here, Shel! I love the dreamy prose leading right into the horror-fest that is Dr. Grabby.

Thanks Ariel!!! That was much appreciated, especially since it was a chapter I struggled with. Yeah, there’s nothing worse that being caught up in a lovely day dream and then being jarred from your reverie in a truly sleazy way, lol! Yucky!

[quote Personal notes, SHANA IS A BITCH! Dr. Grabby Hands needs the major smack-down (tell me that will happen!) I’m actually sorry Willow is leaving the clinic because I love their interactions! [/quote]
I will neither confirm nor deny that Shanna is a bitch, however, I will say that we haven’t seen the last of Dr Grabby and his hands. I will also concede that he gets what’s coming to him. *Insert evil maniacal laughter here*

Also wonder what Morgan (La Fey, the Witch uh make that Bitch) is up to!

Hmmm…I’m sure it can’t be good. Look who she’s hanging around with.

As always Ariel…thanks for the feedback!


beautiful_love

I love the relationship between Willow and Hunter. It's always nice to see a great sibling relationship as well as family support.

I’m glad everyone is liking Hunter! After all, what’s the use of having a large group of siblings and not having a good relationship with them??

Thanks for reading and for the feedback!


[u]bouncer73

WOW...I feel it..I feel the angst coming..I am already on the edge of my chair waiting for the next update and can't wait to see which way your take this story...
So far this story has been awesome. I can't wait to see what happens when Tara meets Willows family and how things go from there.

It’s kinda like a slow moving train with no one at the wheel…it just keeps picking up speed. What makes you think she’ll agree to go? lol

I’m glad you liked it and thanks for the feedback!!


[center]******UPDATE DIRECTLY BELOW******[/center][/center]

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: PG13

DISCLAIMER: Willow, Tara and any other BtVS characters, as well as some random dialog, belong to Mutant Enemy.

SUMMARY: Totally AU, Willow and Tara Meet with not so surprising results! Set in LA with lots of W/T fluff and a little teeny tiny bit of angst, but no Hellmouthyness. Just good old regular day-to-day drama.



FEEDBACK: OK; Any glaring issues…please send me a PM!

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


Chapter 16: TLC

Thursday rolled around and Tara found herself in a similar position as she did earlier in the week. Sitting in the make up chair prepping for afternoon shooting, nervous and excited obsessing over the evening ahead. She was anxiously tapping her fingernails on the arm of the chair, lost in thought over a certain redhead. Things were going well between them and Tara was thrilled. She could hardly believe that it had been less than two full weeks since they’d first met. She already felt like she’d known Willow a lifetime. At this point she couldn’t imagine her life without the beautiful redhead and she could sense that Willow felt the same way about her, however, it still didn’t make Tara any less worried. There were things that Willow needed to know. Things about her past that she wished she could just forget, but she knew deep down that if they had any chance of a future, she had to come clean. But when?

Someone talking to her pulled her from her thoughts.

“Huh?”

“I said, how are things with Willow?” Pam repeated, as she worked on Tara’s hair and make-up.

“Oh, sorry. Good, really good. I’m seeing her again tonight and going to her game tomorrow.”

“Wow, you two seem to be attached at the hip lately, and yet I still haven’t met her.”

Tara blushed, “Yeah, we have been spending a lot of time together. She’s really, really great. I’d like to see her more, but our schedules, she sighed, “they don’t always mesh.”

Pam was intrigued, knowing how cautious her friend was letting people into her carefully guarded life, “Well, why don’t you invite her to the set sometime? Maybe on a light day? At least you’ll be able to hang out together.”

Tara gave a knowing smile, sensing Pam’s ulterior motives, “You just want to meet her and give her the third degree. Anyway, I don’t know. I kinda had words with Shanna the other day and I don’t really know what her motives were.”

“I’m not surprised to hear that, there’s been talk.”

“About me?!” Tara squealed.

“No, no about her phoney ass kissing self. She’s really been going above and beyond to secure a place here, but I doubt she gets it.”

“What makes you say that?” Tara inquired, as Pam began to apply her eye shadow.

“For starters, I don’t think Carl likes her, plus there’s not a lot of chemistry on or off screen. I bet they write her out during spring sweeps, no way they’ll risk their top 10 ratings on her sleazy little ass.”

Tara chuckled and shook her head, “You certainly don’t mince words, do you?”

“Hey, I’m just voicing what everyone else is thinking. Tara, didn’t I warn you about trusting certain people?” Pam’s rhetorical question went unanswered as she continued to apply Tara’s makeup, “Look, you’re the female lead on the top rated sitcom on TV, you work with a cast of mostly guys and those boys love you. Then you have all these other female guest stars coming and going. Sure, Shanna’s been around longer than most and you two have been friendly, but don’t think for one second that she wouldn’t throw you under the bus to get on here permanently. You’ve got a plumb position here with a great group of people and she wants in.”

“Wow, rant much?” Tara smirked, “I don’t know Pam, but I think I may have just over reacted. I think maybe she was genuinely concerned and it just came out all kinds of wrong.”

“Tara, I’m not saying that you can’t be nice or even ‘set’ friends with her, but I sure wouldn’t divulge anything too personal, especially where Willow is concerned. In fact, never mind what I said about bringing her here, but I do still want to meet the love of your life.”

“L-Love? Who s-said anything a-about l-love? Tara nearly jumped out of the chair as she stuttered something fierce.

“Mmhmm, thou doth protest too much, Miss Maclay. By the way, I’m done. Now go before you get so worked up you can’t perform and that skank takes the lead.” Pam said, with a generous amount of conviction.

Tara simply nodded, not really knowing what to say. Love? Am I in love with Willow, already? I can’t be, can I? Geez I sound like a teenager, one thing is for certain though…she is lovable.

******************************
Willow arrived late in the evening and since both girls were tired, they decided to call it an early night and get some much-needed rest. Willow decided to skip her two morning classes so they could sleep in and snuggle. Tara awoke first and made Willow the breakfast she’d promised. She made a veggie omelet with a side of bacon, toast and orange juice. They ate their breakfast on the patio and enjoyed the sun kissed California morning. After breakfast, they snuggled on the couch in front of the TV until Willow finally showered, gathered her gear and headed out to the ballpark, with a promise from Tara that she would be in the stands later.

The game proved to be somewhat less of a positive experience than the last, and quite painful, especially for Willow. The coaches decided to play several rookie freshmen, including the pitcher and disaster ensued. Willow and a few of the other seniors, did their best to hold things together, but it just seemed to go from bad to worse. It was late in the fifth inning with the Bruins already down by 3 with a runner on first and one out when Willow tried to turn a less than perfect double play. As she turned to throw the ball to first she got spiked in the shin and up-ended by the base runner, causing her to overthrow first base all together. The whole incident resulted in Willow curled up in a fetal position in the dirt gripping her injured shin and Tara very nearly having a heart attack in the stands. She tried to walk it off and begged to stay in the game, but the coaches were not about to let their best player injure herself further, especially in a preseason exhibition game. With Willow out of the game, the downhill slide continued and the Lady Bruins lost 7-4.

Tara was a bundle of nerves until she received a text from Willow indicating that she was ok and would meet her after the game in their usual spot, outside the locker room doors. Tara waited diligently until a limping Willow finally emerged. She looked tired and disheveled, with a small bruise forming on her right cheek.

“Hey, sorry it took me so long.” Willow breathed, as she hobbled towards Tara. Her girlfriend was at her side immediately, grabbing her duffle bag, and quick with an arm around her waist to steady the injured redhead.

“No, it’s fine. Are you ok? You scared me half to death.” Responded a concerned Tara.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Just a few bumps and bruises, no big.”

“Well, I don’t know about that. It seems like a pretty big-big to me. You can hardly walk and you have a bruise on your cheek,” Tara said with a pout, running the back of her hand across the injured cheek.

“I do?” Willow questioned as she reached up and pressed lightly on her cheekbone. “Humph, I guess I do. I must have smacked into her helmet on my way down, I didn’t even notice…not my most graceful moment.”

“Um, besides you getting pummeled…it was actually kinda cool,” Tara said sheepishly.

“Uh huh, so me getting my ass kicked is a ‘cool’ moment for my girlfriend?” Willow teased, poking her tongue between her teeth as she grinned.

Tara chuckled and gave Willow a reassuring squeeze, “It was just amazing how you were able to catch the ball, jump and throw all in one fluid motion.”

“It would have been even more amazing if I’d actually thrown out the runner at first, instead of throwing it to the moon,” Willow laughed, “I’ve made that play a hundred times and practiced it a zillion, I still can’t believe that I didn’t jump high enough to avoid getting zapped. Luckily she wasn’t wearing metal spikes, like I wear, otherwise I would have been a bloody mess and at the hospital getting stitches,” Willow said incredulously, shaking her head.

“You must be losing it in your old age,” The blonde quipped as they approached her white Lexus RX-11.

“Um Tara? My car is over there,” Willow said, as she nodded her head to the right.

“I know, your coming home with me. You’re in no shape to drive and I thought you could use a little TLC,” Tara replied innocently, as she shrugged her shoulders and glanced at her girlfriend.

“Oooh, some tender lovin’ care?”

“Nope…some Tara lovin’ care,” The blonde breathed seductively.

Willow smiled as green eyes met blue and a rush of warmth filled her chest. She batted her lashes and leaned forward to kiss Tara, but stopped as she remembered where she was. She took a deep breath and let out a long sigh.

“You can kiss me, you know?” Tara said, as she popped the hatch and deposited Willow’s duffle bag inside.

“I know, I just- I wanna keep you all to myself for as long as possible. Plus…I um, I was kinda wanting to ask you something actually and hoping that…you…maybe…um…” Willow continued to stammer and ramble incoherently, looking down at her feet.

“Will, sweetie. Take a breath, because I have no idea what you’re trying to ask me.” Tara said, as she cupped Willow’s chin and gently lifted it upwards so their eyes could meet.

As Willow looked up at Tara she just happened to catch a small group people moving in their general direction. Paparazzi, damn it. This is going to be harder than I thought. Grrr! Suddenly, Willow pulled away from Tara and grimaced.

“I um, I need to get something out of my car.”

Tara was stunned, to put it mildly. Willow had never pulled away from her, not to mention the fact that she practically sprinted away.

“Willow, what’s going on?” Tara mumbled, as tears began to well in her eyes behind the safety of her sunglasses.

“I’m just going to go ahead and take my car, ok?” Willow said, as she backed even further away from Tara, with no real explanation, eventually hopping into her car.

Tara was still confused from Willow’s strange reaction when she heard her name being called from behind her. She turned and saw several photographers rapidly approaching and snapping away. Tara was trying to smile for the cameras, which were now firmly planted in her face, but on the inside she just wanted to scream. Tara then realized why Willow became so uncomfortable, obviously seeing the Paparazzi moving towards them. Who am I kidding? This is never going to work.

She managed to make it into her car with a barrage of cameras and questions. They kept asking why she was there and she knew if she didn’t provide some sort of answer that they would just make something up. She rolled down her window, answered a few questions and allowed a few more pictures, before she rolled up her window and drove away.

On the outside she looked fine, but on the inside she was reeling with Willow’s sudden departure. She was confused, upset and as she drove out of the view of the photographers, the tears began to drip down her cheeks. Willow was nowhere in sight, she tried to call the redhead, but instead heard the familiar ring coming from the back of her car instead. Realizing that Willow must have left the cell in her duffle bag, not being able to reach her was causing Tara to become more and more distressed by the minute. A million thoughts were steamrolling through her head. This was her life, there was nothing she could do about it and if Willow couldn’t handle it…then they were over. She swallowed hard, desperately trying to dispel those errant thoughts.

She pulled into her driveway and as she rounded the curve leading to her house she saw Willow’s car and the redhead leaned against the trunk.

Willow perked up when she saw Tara’s car pulling up the drive, and smiled, but when Tara failed to return the gesture, Willow’s expression became one of concern. She also noticed how Tara sat in the car for a moment before exiting, taking several deep breaths and wiping her face. Oh boy, this can’t be good. I shouldn’t have left her. Damn it! Willow chided herself.

Tara finally pulled herself together enough to exit her car and face Willow. She stood slowly and looked Willow right in the eye, not even trying to hide the tears that were flowing freely down her face. Willow’s heart sank as she closed the gap between them in a matter of seconds.

“Tara, what happened? I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have left you there by yourself. I’m so sorry.” Willow kept repeating herself and began to gently wipe the tears from Tara’s eyes.

“No, W-Willow. It’s ok, I-I understand, I’ll just g-get your bag out of m-my trunk and t-then you can go.” Tara stated blankly.

“Tara, what? Go? But why?” Willow stared at Tara and saw the array of emotions that were clouding Tara’s eyes and realized how her hasty exit must have looked and a wave of fear passed through her. “Oh! Baby, no. This is just a giant misunderstanding.”

“I understand perfectly well Willow, but this is my life and I can’t change it. I was a fool to think that you wouldn’t be totally freaked out and overwhelmed.” Tara sighed, ducking her head.

“Tara Maclay, you look at me,” Willow said firmly, cupping both of Tara’s tear soaked cheeks and raising her head, “I’m not freaked, not in the least. We’re just having a gigantic misunderstanding because I can’t get a full sentence out without babbling like a complete idiot. It’s all my fault and I’m really, really sorry. I talked to my brother yesterday and came up with this plan. I should have told you about it sooner, but I didn’t and I am very, very sorry.”

“Willow, I-” Tara attempted to say something, but was cut off by Willow’s lips pressing a gentle kiss to hers. As upset as she was, Willow’s touch had an undeniable calming effect on her.

“Tara, I care about you, so-so very much and no amount of stupid Paparazzi is ever going to change that.”

“Willow, p-please tell me what you were going to before all this happened, because I s-still don’t understand what’s going on.” By this time Tara was exasperated and just needed an explanation.

“Ok, but can we go inside and put some ice on my leg first?” Willow asked, with a slight pained expression on her face.

“Oh Sweetie, I’m sorry. Come on, let’s go…after all I did promise you some TLC.” She took Willow’s hand and led her into the house.

Willow planted herself on the couch with her leg elevated and Tara soon returned with a bag of ice and a small bag of frozen peas for her bruised cheek. They got comfortable and Willow began her explanation. She recounted the conversation with her brother and ‘her plan’ to try and keep their relationship under wraps until she had a chance to introduce Tara to her family. The only part she left out was the issue with her mother. She figured that was a whole other conversation on it’s own. A problem for future Willow to worry about.

“Three weeks Tara, just three more weeks and then I’ll shout it from the roof tops if I have to,” Willow paused anxiously awaiting Tara’s response.

“Y-You want me to go h-home with you for Thanksgiving? That’s what this is all about?” Tara questioned, wanting to make sure she’d heard Willow correctly.

“Yes, I mean if you want to. If you don’t, then I can stay here. No problem at all.” Willow answered, absently stroking Tara’s hair.

“Will, I would never ask you to give up time with your family.”

“I know that Tare, but there’s no way I’m leaving my girlfriend alone for the holidays,” Willow smiled softly and kissed Tara to reinforce her resolve.

“I’m sorry, I was so stupid in jumping to conclusions.”

“You’re not stupid Tara. I was just nervous about asking you to come home with me to meet the folks. I mean, that’s a big step and I don’t want you to feel obligated and-”

Two lips moving against her own abruptly stopped Willow’s babble. Tara broke the kiss and pulled back so she could look Willow directly in the eye.

And without even a hint of a stutter, Tara gave Willow her answer, “Yes Willow. I will go home to Texas with you.”