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

[wayland]

I’m repeating myself, but I do like the way your Tara and Willow deal with problems like adults. Willow doesn’t just cancel the trip due to lack of money, then, being too embarrassed to explain, leaves Tara worried that she’s done something wrong. No, she calls her to discuss it. Similarly with going to see her coach.

I found the coach’s reaction very funny. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but she was just so monstrous. She managed to insult Willow and Tara on so many levels, while having no clue that she’d said anything out of line.

I liked the ‘hurry home’ slip a lot. Looking forward to the next update, thank you.

Clare

[Finey_McFine]

Sierra:
Yay…DIBS! And for real this time!! lol

I'm so in your story that I'm always surprised and disappointed when the end of the chapter comes. Surprised because "No, already?" and disappointed because "one week to wait now..." (I hope you'll have time for un update on Wednesday )

YAY for Wednesday mid week update!! See below:)

Thanks for the feedback!

Laragh:

[quoteHehe Willow's adorable leaving a message. Voice mails throw me too lol [/quote]
I’m a complete moron when I leave messages. Setting up the message is even WORSE, lol. Shel’s out going message: #1,276

I'm surprised Willow's surprised about the coach's reaction.

With everything that’s going on, I think Willow is at the end of her rope. Willow is worried about embarrassing the team & putting their season at risk, meanwhile the coach is fairly star struck, lol. Welcome to the world of dating the uber celeb!!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


wolfsbane:

Oooh! The tension is palpable! I love how devious and lawyery Willow is in this situation. When Morgan tries something, she won't know what hit her!

At least she’s smart enough to cover herself…especially if Morgan goes all psycho again.


Thanks for the feedback!!!

Indigokane:

now I'm begining to think the coach may turn into just as big of a problem as Morgan.

Hmmm…we’ll have to wait and see.

Tara told Willow to hurry home! SO SWEET!

Whoops! Another cute Tara slip:) I foresee a u-haul in their future, lol

edited cuz i can't spell!

“I don't see any use in having a uniform and arbitrary way of spelling words. We might as well make all clothes alike and cook all dishes alike. Sameness is tiresome; variety is pleasing.” ~Mark Twain

Thanks for the feedback!


zampsa19752001:
The worry about the coach seems to be a palpable through out the comments on this chapter. I guess everyone will just have to wait and see!!


Thanks for the feedback!


promethea128:

Morgan can impliment plans A through Z, 1 through 894, and she still won't come between W+T.

Fortunately for us…she’s not the sharpest tool in the shed!

Thanks for the feedback!


angieb86:

I think it was cool that Willow went to her coach and her coach was all cool with her 'affair'-ing with Tara. But I've had some bad luck with coaches in the past, so she kinda makes me a little nervous...I hope she doesn't do anything dumb.

Wow, this poor coach is really getting a bad rap, lol.

Rest assured that Miss Morgan will eventually have to face her demons!

Thanks for the feedback!


Love_2003:

I'm wondering if once Willow explains what is going on with the flight plans Tara might offer to just pay for the tickets.

But will Willow allow her to pay???? The money issue is one gap that will never be bridged.

I'm hoping Morgan stops with her craziness once she realizes she has a formal complaint against her.

Hopefully it doesn’t piss her off even more!!!!

Thanks for the feedback!


KnightlyLove:
Yes!!!
Thanks as always for the feedback!!!


JustSkipIt:

Well, I'm not at all surprised about the cost of the tickets or the difficulty of finding tickets together. Actually, I think i called that one a few weeks ago as far as the cost and all that. We'll see what Tara suggests that doesn't totally make Willow feel like a kept woman.

You did call it and I was like, “Damn it!” That’s why I didn’t address it when you mentioned it, cuz I already had this issue planned out, lol!! Willow is finding herself in quite a pickle. It’s addressed in the next chapter, so no spoilers, but something happens that makes her realize that she can’t fly Tara coach. I mean, that thought is just ridiculous.

I think Willow's taking the exact right approach with Morgan as far as pretending she knows nothing about the note. While I'm not thrilled about the pov switching over to give us omniscience of Morgan's thought process (as a writer) about the note, it is quite amusing (as a reader) to note her being so confused about it. Ha ha.

Willow taking the high road here really shows her maturity. In her mind she ended it at her apartment when she told Morgan that she would show her respect as a teammate, but beyond that they were over. This just reinforces that she meant what she said. As for the POV…sorry? I struggled with that and re-wrote it several times. Finally in the end, I said f it and left it so I could post, lol. I’m chalking it up to being a rookie….

Willow gave a reasonable answer as opposed to saying something like "well, she sure does seem to enjoy (or be good at) eating pussy" or something similarly crude.

Hahahahahahaha…I wrote several smart ass come backs, but it would have been a little out of character for her so I left it as is. My mind was going to naughty places, lol.

Although I guess that America's Sweetheart thing is really working.

It’s not the first weird reaction they are going to get. Just wait until Tara comes out!!


Thanks for the feedback!!


SMGOVAN:

Good deeds and intentions never go un-punished...

Ahhh…this is true. What’s happening now is the calm before the storm. The money issue is coming up in the next chapter, but you’re right I doubt Tara cares about any of it.

It's great she made the complaint about Morgan and that she told her that she was dating someone in showbiz....I just wish she would not have said 'who'. She should have respected Tara's privacy and her right to come out on her own terms.

It’s interesting that you said this, because that particular thought never crossed my mind. Willow trusts her coach and has no reason not to, so outing Tara wasn’t a big deal to her. She knew the coach would keep it quite. But I do see your point, that is definitely a fine line.

Ps... I fucking hate that punk ass bitch Morgan..

I just quoted this because it made me LOL!!

Thanks for the feedback!


vampyregurl73

Great update(s)! I am soo not a violent person - I've never been in a fight in my life - but I just want to take a stick to Morgan! That fact that you're coming up with these things makes me never wanna cross you.

Dear sweet Heather…you’re damn right because I will cut you! LOL I not violent either nor do I participate in all this drama, but I know a lot of caddy women who are more than happy to share their evil deeds.

You know, I was gonna give you a hard time over Hilary Duff, then I listened to it, and it was cute and kinda fit them. Then I see the stuff you can cook up for revenge tactics and am grateful we aren't in the same state, lol. But still Hilary Duff? lol

Yeah! You better watch out and forget water boarding…I’ll tie you to a chair and make you watch the Disney channel 24/7!!!!!!! You’ll confess to things you never knew you did!! BTW, you’re the first to mention Hilary Duff…I thought it was a nice geeky Willow touch. For the record: My child is a fan, she was listening to it recently and it got stuck in my head. Turns out it was the perfect song for the ring tone:-)


Thanks for the feedback!!!


deviantART
Hi…I’m gald to hear that you are still sticking with me:)

Thanks for the feedback!


nightmask

that was really smart of Willow to talk to the coach about morgan, now maybe she'll back of a bit, but I kind of doubt it... I hope morgan's plan b isn't to call the paparazzi :/ So much suspense :] I'm loving it

Fortunately, Morgan isn’t all that smart. So hopefully her plan B is just as dumb as her plan A was, lol.

Thanks for the feedback!!!


beautiful_love
I have long sleeves…so you never know what’s up there, lol!!


Thanks for the feedback!!


LonelyTara

I am a bit nervous about Willow telling her coach everything, I know she needed to warn her and to report Megan, but I hope that the evil little skag wasn't listening at the door.

Well, she wasn’t before, but now you’ve given me an idea……

Thanks for the feedback!!



Gaga01

I feel bad because I don't always leave feedback, but I really should because I love this story so much!!! It's so sweet, funny, the girls are perfect!!!

Aww…thanks for sticking with me!!!

It'll be huge for Tara once she'll make her relationship with Willow public...hopefully everything will go well!

I’m thinking that they just may have to go hide out in another country or something when it all hits the fan!

Thanks for the feedback!


xlaurax1

Kinda gonna repeat a bit of what Gaga01 said, I've been a terrilbe, terrible regular feedbacker, Shel.

Hey, I’m just happy to see that the Jack Jumpers didn’t carry you away, lol!

I've loved the last few updates in particular and seeing how they've really started to form a bond. Not that long ago I think we would have seen a much different outcome with the whole 'Morgan's note' thing.

It would have been disastrous, hopefully that bond is getting stronger because the next few weeks will definitely test it.

[quote And while I'm there, I know you've probably heard it enough by now, but Morgan - what a BITCA! God, you've done a wonderful job of making me absoluted detest her. [/quote]
You and several hundred other Kittens as well, lol. While not based on one specific person, she is a combination of several people that I’ve known over the years. Kinda scary, huh?

In a perfect world they'd be able to keep their secret until Thanksgiving, come out to the world, and go happily along with their lives, but we all know thats not gonna happen. And why should it. Where's the fun in that!

You never know, maybe by some miracle, they’ll get away with keeping it quiet. Hmmm…we’ll just have to wait and see.

Thanks for the feedback!


BeMyDeputy

You know, I've had multiple, when told I'm bi, say something along the lines of "Really? You're not kidding, you're actually bi?"

I've never understood it. Seriously, wtf? What do they expect? "Naw, I'm just messing with ya--I only enjoy fucking (wo)men?"

This has happened to me several times over the years and it brings to mind a specific incident with a co-worker years ago. We had gotten to be friends and he found out through the grapevine that I was gay. I never tried to hide it; it just never came up. At the time I was in my late 20’s and he was in his mid 40’s. I remember him specifically saying, “I can’t believe you’re gay. I just don’t understand it. Are you sure? I mean, you’re attractive and you could easily find a guy. Maybe you just haven’t found the right one yet?” I remember trying to explain that it had NOTHING to do with finding the ‘right guy’ or any guy for that matter, but he NEVER got it! He just kept saying, ‘Nope, there’s no way that you are reallygay.” What a dope!

Thanks for the feedback!


wimpy0729
You got in just under the wire!!

the money thing might be awkward, but maybe Tara can come up with a solution.

It’s always going to be an issue and sometimes awkward, but Willow is going to have to get used to it, cuz Tara’s not going broke anytime soon, lol. It’s addressed in the next chapter.

I love the way Willow is handling the Morgan situation. Ignoring her is probably the best thing and Willow can't afford to do anything stupid.

It shows her maturity and ability to deal with difficult situations, which is going to come in handy when they come out.

I'm not so worried about her coach's reaction, etc

Yay! You’re one of only a couple to say that:) Coaches that deal with hormonal girls and all their love life drama learn how to deal with things differently. I remember seeing a documentary on Pat Summit years ago and all that she had to deal with. I think her reaction was right on and it doesn’t mean she’s going to turn against Willow, it just means that she took it with a grain of salt. I guess that I’ve got everyone on edge so much so that their automatically skeptical of anyone new, lol.

Thanks for the feedback!!


[center]NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW[/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!

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Happy Hump Day Kittens! Another short, but necessary chapter. Sunday’s update will be longer and I promise you’ll really enjoy it because, a secret will be revealed!!


Chapter 24: She Really IS A Star


Willow knocked on Tara’s front door with a big smile on her face; she could hardly wait to see her. They hadn’t seen each other in several days due to their busy schedules, and Willow was seriously missing her girlfriend.

“Oh, Willow,” the brunette said flatly.

“Hi Kelly. How are you?”

“Good, busy and you?”

“About the same. Is Tara here?” Willow asked, wondering why she didn’t come to the door.

“She’s down in the media room, catching up on some stuff.”

“The media room?” Willow was thrown, she had no idea what Kelly was talking about.

“Yeah, you know the theater room…downstairs? Ringing a bell yet?” Kelly said, sounding annoyed with the redhead.

Willow simply shook her head, she was completely lost on Kelly’s words, “Tara has a theater room?”

“Yeees, it’s in the basement. You didn’t know that?” Kelly said with a smirk.

Willow was a little miffed at Kelly’s condescending attitude, wondering what had come over her and not appreciating the smirk either. She got the impression that the girl was dismissing her, as if she wasn’t important enough to know this little piece of information.

“It’s the door off the kitchen. You know where the kitchen is, right?”

“Yeah, got it.” Willow said bluntly.

Willow was taken aback with the sudden mood swing of the young assistant. This was the first time she’d been one on one with Kelly and this attitude was not one that she’d ever seen when Tara was around.

Willow had noticed that over the last couple weeks, that Kelly was making herself quite comfortable in Tara’s home and she wondered if the girl had any intention of ever leaving. She worried that Kelly was taking advantage of her girlfriend’s generosity and had thought about bringing it up to Tara, but wasn’t sure if it was her place to do so. In the end, Willow decided to let it go; not wanting to burden Tara with anything else. There were more pressing matters that needed to be discussed, like their flight arrangements.

Willow took her overnight bag, dropped it in Tara’s bedroom and removed her shoes before heading downstairs with her laptop. She opened the door and began her decent into the dimly lit room. Gingerly descending the stairs until she finally made it to the bottom.

Willow stood frozen at the bottom of the stairs, the plush carpet feeling thick and squishy between her toes, causing her to feel off balance. It wasn’t just one room; it was several rooms and it was a stunning set up.

Willow finally got her balance and began to wander around in search of Tara. The main room was quite cozy, painted in a dark blue with custom maple molding through out. The ceiling housed recessed lights and a digital projector, which hung ominously in the center. Willow noticed several giant movie posters adorning the walls with decorative sconces separating each one. Upon closer look, she realized that several of the posters pictured Tara and she swallowed thickly. She’d expected to see theater style seating; instead there was a large sectional, several reclining chairs, a love seat and an oversized chaise. Each piece of furniture was peppered with large fluffy accent pillows and several matching fleece blankets. Willow sat her laptop down on the couch and stood with her mouth gaping at the towering movie screen, which she estimated to be at least eight feet tall and twelve feet wide. Wow.

Willow made her way through a set of double doors that led to what appeared to be a game room. Room #2 came complete with an authentic 8’ mahogany bar, equipped with a beer tap, soda dispenser, popcorn popper and a full sized refrigerator. The centerpiece of the room was a full size Mandalay pool table covered in a rich red felt. The remainder of the furniture in the room consisted of two tall tables and spectator chairs all matching the rich mahogany pool table and bar.

Willow scanned the room intently, taking in the lavishness of her surroundings, when something caught her eye. It was a glass case built into the wall on the far side of the room. As she moved towards the case, cocking her head, she realized that it housed Tara’s awards, an Emmy, two Golden Globe’s and a couple others she didn’t recognize. At that moment, the gravity of Tara’s fame descended upon Willow. Tara was the real deal; a superstar in every sense of the word. How the hell am I gonna put her in coach with me. Movie stars don’t fly coach. Movie stars don’t tool around town in a six year old Jetta and hang out in a tiny one bedroom apartment with-

“Willow,” Tara said in a whisper, not wanting to startle the redhead.

“Hey,” Willow said still facing the glass cabinet, “This is pretty um, wow. I mean, I didn’t even know this underground labyrinth existed, it’s like a whole other house down here.” She laughed nervously and continued to stand facing away from Tara with her hands clinched tightly in the pockets of her hoodie.

Without saying a word, Tara closed the distance between them. She placed a hand on Willow’s shoulder, gently turning her around and smiling a lopsided smile. She cupped Willow’s cheeks and kissed her so passionately that Willow’s knees literally buckled and she was forced to place her hand on the table next to her for support.

“Come on, I’ll give you the fifty cent tour.” Tara took Willow’s hand and began to lead her away from the award case.

Willow could only respond with, “Uh huh,” after being kissed like that, she was lucky any noise came out at all.

“So, you saw the theater room and the game room. Down the hall here is the bathroom, my office and a small gym. I don’t spend a lot of time down here, but with Kelly around, it’s a nice respite.”

Willow curiously studied each room and marveled at the luxury of it all. The bathroom wasn’t as lavish as Tara’s upstairs master bath, but it was nice just the same. Tara’s office was about the most ‘normal’ and predictable room in the house, an oak desk, matching bookshelves, brown leather couch, etc.

“And this is the gym.”

“Wow, this is a pretty nice set up.” Willow was in her element here and she was impressed with Tara’s one room gym. It came complete with floor to ceiling mirrors, various machines, free weights and a flat screen TV.

“You um, you can use it anytime you like.”

“Thanks Tare. Hey, maybe we can workout together sometime?”

“Hmmm, I thought we did that already?” Tara said seductively.

“Vixen,” Willow smiled and shook her head. She has got to be the sexiest woman on the planet.

“So, how about I take you up on that offer tonight then?”

“Ummm, gladly.” Willow answered, pulling Tara in close for a kiss and then suddenly stepping away.

“Hey, that’s not fair,” Tara pouted.

The redhead snickered at Tara’s adorable pout, “We need to discuss the travel stuff and then I promise much in the way of working out.”

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

An hour and a half later, Willow and Tara found themselves sprawled across the chaise in the theater room; naked and covered with a light fleece blanket.

“So, that’s the best workout I’ve had in a very long time,” the blonde whispered.

“Definitely,” Willow said, leaning in and placing feather light kisses along Tara’s neck, “Tara, I missed you so much and I know it sounds desperate and needy, but I did.”

“I missed you too Will. God, I love sleeping with you in my arms and waking up with you in the morning. I wish we could see each other everyday.”

“Me too, me too. Speaking of some together time, we need to sort out this travel stuff or the only trip we’ll be taking is to a 24 hour Thanksgiving buffet in Las Vegas.” Willow untangled herself from Tara and went to retrieve her laptop from the couch as Tara groaned her disapproval.

“I’m coming right back you know.”

“I know, but still.”

“See? Here I am and still naked.” The redhead said, grinning at her girlfriend. She climbed on the chaise, sitting cross legged with her computer in her lap.

Willow was actually glad to be having this conversation after making love. She was more relaxed and the whole flight vs. seat debacle didn’t seem like such a big deal anymore. Willow spent the next few minutes running all the ticket scenarios by Tara, who listened carefully trying to keep everything straight.

“Willow?”

“Yeah?”

“I didn’t expect you to pay for my ticket Sweetie.”

“Well, I asked you to go. I can’t very well have you pay for it.”

“Baby,” Tara sighed and looked Willow straight in the eye, “we need to get this money stuff out in the open. What is your biggest concern?”

Willow took a deep breath, puffing her cheeks out and blew the bangs off her forehead, “Tara, I don’t want people thinking that you’re my sugar mama.”

Tara snorted and laughed. “Tare! Come on, this is serious. I’m a broke ass college student and you have more money than…God. I’ll never catch up and people will think I’m a kept woman! They’ll think that I’m using you and taking advantage of you.” The redhead was now in mega pout mode.

“Will, since when do you care what other people think?” Willow just shrugged her shoulders, “It doesn’t matter who pays for the tickets, it’s not going to change the situation and people are gonna say things anyway.”

“I guess you have a point, smarty-pants,” Willow grumbled, “I just…I don’t want you to think those things about me.”

“Willow, I don’t think that about you and you’ve given me no reason to believe otherwise. The thing is, I have a lot of money, more than I’ll ever be able to spend and there’s going to be times when that comes in handy. Kinda like now. You can’t tell me that you enjoy flying coach?”

“Well, I’ve never flown anything else, so I have no idea.” Willow said.

“Sweetie, please let me pay for the tickets? That way we don’t have to fly coach or take the red eye and we can sit together. Ok?”

“Look, I just need you to know that I didn’t bring this up to get you to pay for anything. I just, I know that you’re a-custom to a certain lifestyle, which by the way is pretty wow and I can’t have you downgrade because of me. I want to fly us first class, because hello Tara Maclay flying coach? Crazy. But I can’t afford it. I can put it on my credit card but, I won’t eat for the rest of the year. So, that’s why I’m in a quandary over this whole thing. It’s a Catch-22. I don’t know that I’ll ever be able to do these type of things for you and I just-”

“Willow,” Tara interrupted, “I understand that you want to do this for me but, I don’t need you starving to death either. You’re right, there’s always going to be a huge gap in income between us and there’s nothing we can do about it. Baby, I’ve been working steady since I was 10, in a business that pays an obscene amount of money. As much as you want to do this for me, I want to do it for you. Willow, think about this: What if things were reversed? What if you had the ability to do something nice for me because I couldn’t afford it? What would you do? How would you feel?”

Willow thought about this for a moment and she knew Tara was right. She would want more than anything to make her happy and wouldn’t think twice about doing it. Willow loved the way in which Tara explained things and how patient and calm she was. How she listened to Willow, even through her long winded babblefest.

“Ok Tare, I see your point, but you’ll let me pay for things when I can?”

“Yes Sweetie, of course and I know that you didn’t start dating me because of the money. That’s never been a question in my mind. So, we’re good then?”

“Yeah, better than good,” Willow breathed as she leaned in to kiss Tara.

“Ok, then let’s get this flight booked and head to bed because I really need my Willow-snuggles tonight.”

[Drah4me]

Dibs.. weee

Luuurved the update glad they've finally discussed this money thingy..

“Tara, I don’t want people thinking that you’re my sugar mama.”

heheheh xD

Can't wait for the next update

[Laragh]

Sunday’s update will be longer and I promise you’ll really enjoy it because, a secret will be revealed!!

You better not be teasing!!

Eh, you should try being nice, Kelly. Pissing off your boss' girlfriend (bosses'? I dunno. The point stands) is not a good idea!!

I want a media room(s) like that.

Yes please have them work out together!! I dunno why the idea of them on matching cross-trainers is equally hilarious and arousing, but it is!

Hehe. Sugar Mama.

I just, I know that you’re a-custom to a certain lifestyle

I absolutely loved this sentence. 'A-custom' as oppose to 'accustomed' is such a Willow-deviant of normal speech. I can just see her quipping it with her little smile.

I'm so happy the money issue was brought up/resolved!

Really awesome chapter

[beautiful_love]

Aww such a nice (and super fast) update.

Ok first, what's up with Kelly? Hmm. I'm wondering if I need to be nervous about this. But since you gave us sweet, cute Willow-Tara time, I actually forgot about it for a minute. I do like how you've addressed the issue of the difference in income. Obviously that's going to come up in any relationship where one person makes more than the other and it can be extremely awkward. Thankfully they're actually talking about it like adults.

Great update. Looking forward to the next.

[Grimm]

Tara can be my sugar mama anytime!! I'm soooooooooooo excited about the secret revelation on sunday . You are making me very paranoid about who will do the dirty deed by outing our girls. The list of suspects just keeps growing. Will it be Morgan (bitch), Kelly, the coach, Tara's co-star or some nosey pap? No matter who turns out to be said villain, Kelly deserves a bat to the back of the fucking head for being such a shit to Willow. News flash bitch ( Kelly), You are the hired help and a free loading hanger on. Not the star attraction !!

[nightmask]

I want my willow snuggles too!

the way you write Willow and Tara is just so incredibly adorable I love it! :]

I find it incredibly funny that kelly may be the possible new threat in their relationship, because the first girl I ever liked was named kelly and she turned out to be a bitch . I think we should just shove morgan and kelly in a room together and see what happens

[Promthea128]

Pretty much ditto to all SMGOVAN said. Good for them having their sweet, cute cuddle time, after being deprived for almost a week. Must have been tourture.

Sunday’s update will be longer and I promise you’ll really enjoy it because, a secret will be revealed!!

A secret, or The Secret?

[bouncer73]

WOW..oh WOW..that was just awesome..I love this story..Sorry I've missed a few updates...but man..its been worth the catch up...This story is written where I feel like I am watching it unfold..Great job..and can't wait for the rest of the updates

[indigokane]

Finally the money talk is over. And so painlessly! wonderful.

i have a good guess as to who's screwing over Tara and why... but I'll be quiet. i hate ruining a good surprise.

eagerly anticipating a good shot of angst then more smoochies,

tina

[KnightlyLove]

There's never gonna be a day it's not going to be weird that Tara has money. It will always be a problem. Hopefully Willow won't end up letting her soul get sucked up by the excellence of having a suga mama. It's super easy to lose every ambition you've never had in that kinda situation.

See? I leave actual comments sometimes!

[xlaurax1]

Heya, Shel.

Hey, I’m just happy to see that the Jack Jumpers didn’t carry you away, lol!

Awww, man!! I hate those little buggers sooooo much. The bite healed after a few days, but the mark stayed on my leg for, like, a month!

Another short, but necessary chapter.

I don't worry so much about the length when we get quality stuff like this.

This update was pretty adorable. Loved Willow's 'Oh, my God' moment re: Tara's stardom, and how Tara was able to calm Willow down so completely and help her to see it from Tara's perspective.

“Willow,” Tara interrupted, “I understand that you want to do this for me but, I don’t need you starving to death either.

That would not be of the good.

My only grievance with this chapter is that you skipped the snuggles on the chaise. Buuuut, I'll forgive you this time, lol.

Can't wait til Sunday (which will really be Monday for me),

Laura.
PS Thanks for the friend request on FB.

[wimpy0729]

Now THAT is the way to get problems resolved -- have lots of hot lovin, then talk about it in a mature manner. I'm glad Willow expressed her concerns, which are understandable, but I like how Tara handled it. She knows in her heart that Willow isn't using her for money. She knows that some people are going to say things about it, but as long as they know it's not true, then it really doesn't matter. Willow's temporary moment of being awe-struck at Tara's fame is totally understandable. Tara just makes it all seem like it's no big deal. She probably didn't show Willow the basement stuff to begin with because she didn't want to overwhelm her, and maybe didn't want to seem like she was showing off or something.

I like how Willow wants to pay for stuff for Tara if she's able, but the truth is, she's just not at that point in her life yet. I'm sure she'll do things for her and give her things that are worth much more than expensive material things. That stuff is what's really important anyway.

Is Kelly just PMSing or should we be worried about something else...hmmm???

Can't wait to see what the SECRET is!!


Wimpy

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I hope Willow mentions to Tara about Kelly's worsened attitude. I wonder if she is related to Tara... Wow, Tara sure has a nice underground "lair"... I'm really glad that they sorted out the money issue (atleast for the moment)... I really liked their naked-workout-session... Can't wait for the secret being revealed...

[JustSkipIt]

Ok, so first obviously is Kelly and a major "what the Hell is her deal?" I've got plenty of guesses ranging from she's worried about her friend to she's worried about her income and how Tara's coming out will affect her job to she's just in a bad mood to she's suspicious of Willow's motives to she views Willow as basically a piece of ass and the fact that Willow doesn't know about the media room is just proof to her that it's true. Then there are others like Kelly's on drugs and Kelly has a thing for Tara which I see as less likely. If I were Willow, the possibility that Kelly thinks I'm just a piece of ass would probably be the most troubling to me. I mean, we know that Tara's genuinely in love with Willow but Willow doesn't know that and if Tara were "that guy" she could totally just be sleeping her way through the cute athletic redheads of LA. I also love the irony that Willow's pondering whether Kelly is taking advantage of Tara's generosity and an hour and half later will have a conversation with Tara in which Tara will now be buying the two of them first-class plane tickets back to Houston for T-giving. Yes, it's not Willow's intention and she does fight against it but it's ironic to me. An outsider looking in might want to sing-song... glass-houses... all Jaston Williams style.

The media room setup sounds pretty awesome. At the same time, it feels so lonely to me. I mean, that's a setup for friends or a family to enjoy. It doesn't seem like Tara truly has those things. Who would she lounge around watching movies with or play pool with? Ok, I could totally get into the home gym thing and it would be nice to have a setup like that for watching movies but I'd still want friends for my viewing parties. As an aside, we have friends who built this big crazy house in Dallas and they put in a movie theater. It's got like the biggest screen you can get and a projector mounted on the ceiling and 8 leather reclining seats and bean bags on the walls and all this shit. They have no problem finding volunteers to come dog sit when they go out of town. And you know what the fire Marshall made them sign when they got the house inspected? A document saying that they understand that no one can EVER sleep in the movie room because it has no windows. It has only one door which means that there is only one escape so you can't sleep in it. I guess people can't sleep in our hall closet either but the fire Marshall didn't seem to have any problem with that. See, I told you that was an aside. Some people would say a tangent.

I have no problem with the off-screen and totally PG rated sex. I just hope we'll get to read some sex sometime... (coughpreferablykinkycough). Their conversation about the plane tickets and money is totally reasonable and seriously. I mean it's just not like it would be reasonable for Willow to spend a year's worth of income on plane tickets when basically that's like money Tara probably has between her couch cushions. I forsee fresh strawberries and home-baked bread on picnics in their future.

Oh, I'm also wondering when Tara's going to tell Willow about what her publicist had to say. That should be interesting. Ok, now I'l be counting down the hours until early Sunday...

[LonelyTara]

Nice update. I admit, as others have expressed, to a certain apprehension about Kelly's behavior. I hope it doesn't have anything to do with me inadvertently giving you an idea about Morgan. :(

[Ariel]

Hi Shel,

I looked through your feedback responses and there wasn’t any for me!

That’s because of this week’s CRAZY work schedule, got two hours of sleep Tues and drove 440 miles in two days, the finale to an unbelievable week! I read the story AND wanted to beg Willow to think twice about turning in the complaint. My experience with friends who have complained is that they have absolutely regretted it!

First, I am worried about Kelly! She is up to something and it’s no good!

Willow stood frozen at the bottom of the stairs, the plush carpet feeling thick and squishy between her toes, causing her to feel off balance.

Great detail! That incredible plush that really does rock you. You describe the set up beautifully, but this little moment sets the tone.

Without saying a word, Tara closed the distance between them. She placed a hand on Willow’s shoulder, gently turning her around and smiling a lopsided smile. She cupped Willow’s cheeks and kissed her so passionately that Willow’s knees literally buckled and she was forced to place her hand on the table next to her for support.

“Come on, I’ll give you the fifty cent tour.” Tara took Willow’s hand and began to lead her away from the award case.

Willow could only respond with, “Uh huh,” after being kissed like that, she was lucky any noise came out at all.

Hotness, humor, and I love how Tara’s kisses take away Willow’s power of speech: major achievement with our beautiful babbler!!!

“I didn’t expect you to pay for my ticket Sweetie.”

“Well, I asked you to go. I can’t very well have you pay for it.”

“Baby,” Tara sighed and looked Willow straight in the eye, “we need to get this money stuff out in the open. What is your biggest concern?”

Willow took a deep breath, puffing her cheeks out and blew the bangs off her forehead, “Tara, I don’t want people thinking that you’re my sugar mama.”

Tara snorted and laughed. “Tare! Come on, this is serious. I’m a broke ass college student and you have more money than…God. I’ll never catch up and people will think I’m a kept woman! They’ll think that I’m using you and taking advantage of you.” The redhead was now in mega pout mode.

I liked “sugar mama” and the conversation they had. They are becoming a real couple And it is so special to see it growing and strengthening between them. I love that, more than anything.

So hurry up and update already!!!!

Ariel
How I Met Your Mother

[love_2003]

Great update. Glad that Willow felt comfortable enough to voice her concerns about the ticket to Tara. Looking forward to Sunday to read about the secret.

[wayland]

I admire the way you wrote the Willow/Kelly scene. In just a few short lines you manage to create a character, and a very real, dislikable one at that. I guess Kelly is trying to stake out ‘her’ territory, with regard to Tara. Not a good idea, especially when her method is so unpleasant and immature. I liked Willow’s proportionate response.

I thought that the media room, for all its luxury, had a lonely feel to it, especially as Tara was using it as a refuge from a hanger-on in her own home. It needs people, maybe Xander dropping pizza on the pristine carpet or something.

Great story, I'm enjoying it, thank you.

Clare

[Finey_McFine]

Drah4me:
Yay…DIBS!!

I’m glad you liked the update!! I think talking about it openly and honestly will prevent any future issues as well.

Thanks for the feedback!

Laragh:

You better not be teasing!!

Gosh! Would I do something like that? lol

Eh, you should try being nice, Kelly. Pissing off your boss' girlfriend (bosses'? I dunno. The point stands) is not a good idea!!

I agree! Not really sure what’s gotten into her.

I want a media room(s) like that.

ME TOO! When I was researching for the detail on the media room, I had to be careful that my drooling didn’t short out the keyboard, lol.

I absolutely loved this sentence. 'A-custom' as oppose to 'accustomed' is such a Willow-deviant of normal speech. I can just see her quipping it with her little smile.

Hahahahahaha…you are the only one that caught it! I was talking with a client a few weeks ago that is a born and raised Texan and she said it twice during our conversation. I thought, “Hmmm, that sounds like something Texas Willow would say,” and I actually wrote it down so I wouldn’t forget! Just wait until Willow goes home and starts conversing with her family…fun, fun!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


beautiful_love:

Ok first, what's up with Kelly?

She definitely got a burr up her butt didn’t she?

I do like how you've addressed the issue of the difference in income. Obviously that's going to come up in any relationship where one person makes more than the other and it can be extremely awkward.

This thing about money and relationships is always a sticky subject. I think that if you get into a relationship and neither of you have any money, then you build from there, it’s not such a big deal who makes more. Since it’s been going into the same account forever, but in this case…it’s glaring. So, as long as they keep the lines of communication open…all should be well:)


Thanks for the feedback!!!

SMGOVAN:
[quoteTara can be my sugar mama anytime!! [/quote]
DITTO!!! No arguments here!

You are making me very paranoid about who will do the dirty deed by outing our girls. The list of suspects just keeps growing.

The list certainly is long and luxurious!

No matter who turns out to be said villain, Kelly deserves a bat to the back of the fucking head for being such a shit to Willow. News flash bitch ( Kelly), You are the hired help and a free loading hanger on. Not the star attraction !!

My oh my…temper, temper! She was a bit of a skank though, wasn’t she? Sadly, her attitude in the next chapter might warrant the bat again as well!

Thanks for the feedback!


nightmask:

I find it incredibly funny that kelly may be the possible new threat in their relationship, because the first girl I ever liked was named kelly and she turned out to be a bitch . I think we should just shove morgan and kelly in a room together and see what happens

My bff growing up was a boy Kelly, so no bad juju there. In this W/T world you never know who is going to turn on them. BTW…Kelly/Morgan would either be the cat fight from hell or they’d fall in love! lol

Thanks for the feedback!


promethea128:

Pretty much ditto to all SMGOVAN said.

Boy, I’d really hate to run into the two of you in a dark alley!

A secret, or The Secret?

THE Secret!!!!!!!!

Thanks for the feedback!


bouncer73:
Hey Bounce! Good to see you again! So glad that you’re still hanging in there with me!! Thanks for reading and commenting!


Indigokane:

I have a good guess as to who's screwing over Tara and why... but I'll be quiet. i hate ruining a good surprise.

Tina…PM me…I’d like to hear your theory!!!

eagerly anticipating a good shot of angst then more smoochies

See below!

Thanks for the feedback!


KnightlyLove:

There's never gonna be a day it's not going to be weird that Tara has money. It will always be a problem. Hopefully Willow won't end up letting her soul get sucked up by the excellence of having a suga mama. It's super easy to lose every ambition you've never had in that kinda situation.

I agree and I think that it may be awkward at times, but it’s not the end all be all of their relationship. So, hopefully they can find a way around it.


Thanks as always for the feedback!!!



xlaurax1:

This update was pretty adorable. Loved Willow's 'Oh, my God' moment re: Tara's stardom, and how Tara was able to calm Willow down so completely and help her to see it from Tara's perspective.

It’s gotta be somewhat surreal to be in a relationship with a mega star. I read an interview a long time ago with Tammy Lynn Michaels (Melissa Etheridge’s ex) and she said that it didn’t really hit her until she saw a picture of her girlfriend on someone’s t-shirt. She said it was one of those, “Oh, I get it!” Moments, lol.

My only grievance with this chapter is that you skipped the snuggles on the chaise. Buuuut, I'll forgive you this time, lol.

LOL…sorry! I promise more in the future!


[quotePS Thanks for the friend request on FB. [/quote]
Thanks for accepting!!!


Thanks for the feedback!!


wimpy0729:

Now THAT is the way to get problems resolved -- have lots of hot lovin, then talk about it in a mature manner.

I’m with you on that sister!

Willow's temporary moment of being awe-struck at Tara's fame is totally understandable. Tara just makes it all seem like it's no big deal. She probably didn't show Willow the basement stuff to begin with because she didn't want to overwhelm her, and maybe didn't want to seem like she was showing off or something.

Yes to both! If you remember, she never did give Willow an official ‘tour’ of her house. Just invited her in and that was that. I don’t know about you, but I HATE it when people give you the ‘tour’ of their homes. Just toss me a beer and I’ll be fine, lol.

I like how Willow wants to pay for stuff for Tara if she's able, but the truth is, she's just not at that point in her life yet.

You are correct, she’s not, but I think just paying for a movie or dinner will make her feel better about the situation. Plus taking Tara to Texas, being on her home turf…will help as well.

Is Kelly just PMSing or should we be worried about something else...hmmm???

Hmmmm…indeed.


Thanks for the feedback!


zampsa19752001

I hope Willow mentions to Tara about Kelly's worsened attitude.

It doesn’t inprove much in the next chapter either:(

Wow, Tara sure has a nice underground "lair"

Could you tell it’s my secret fantasy??


Thanks for the feedback!!!


JustSkipIt

Ok, so first obviously is Kelly and a major "what the Hell is her deal?" I've got plenty of guesses…

Deb…I LOVED all of your guesses and at least one of them is true! But that’s all I’ll say, lol.

I also love the irony that Willow's pondering whether Kelly is taking advantage of Tara's generosity and an hour and half later will have a conversation with Tara in which Tara will now be buying the two of them first-class plane tickets back to Houston for T-giving.

Well, irony is ironic that way! LOL!!

The media room setup sounds pretty awesome. At the same time, it feels so lonely to me. I mean, that's a setup for friends or a family to enjoy. It doesn't seem like Tara truly has those things. Who would she lounge around watching movies with or play pool with?

You most definitely hit the nail on the head here. There are a few dead giveaways as to how often the rooms are used. One glaring giveaway was the carpet. No high traffic area has carpet that stays thick and plush…anyone with kids knows this for a fact, lol. I think, however, that we need to assume that Tara has ‘Hollywood’ friends and has had viewing parties in the past, just not very often. I have a feeling that the room will get used more often, now that Tara has Willow and her friends to share it with.

**Tangent: When I was 16 I babysat for a radiologist. His house was amazing…gigantic pool, tennis courts and a theater room…before they were popular. I remember floor to ceiling shelves full of vhs tapes, a bar, comfy couch and a $10,000 projector. That you could get for $50 at a garage sale today, lol. Anyway, it was like heaven to a teenager and from that moment on…I wanted a room like that BAD!!

Ok back to the fb…

Oh, I'm also wondering when Tara's going to tell Willow about what her publicist had to say.

That kinda happens outside of the fic…they are meeting in the next chapter.



Thanks for the feedback!


LonelyTara

Nice update. I admit, as others have expressed, to a certain apprehension about Kelly's behavior. I hope it doesn't have anything to do with me inadvertently giving you an idea about Morgan. :(

Yes! This was all your fault!! LOL I actually already had this chapter written. Kelly’s behavior continues to raise eyebrows in the next chapter as well.

Thanks for the feedback!!!


Ariel

I read the story AND wanted to beg Willow to think twice about turning in the complaint. My experience with friends who have complained is that they have absolutely regretted it!

Everyone is so worried about the coach, I’m finding it quite funny! Lol

Great detail! That incredible plush that really does rock you. You describe the set up beautifully, but this little moment sets the tone.

It quite literally threw Willow off!

Hotness, humor, and I love how Tara’s kisses take away Willow’s power of speech: major achievement with our beautiful babbler!!!

Tara most definitely has a way with curing Willow of the babble blues!

They are becoming a real couple

Yep and it only took 60,000 words to get them here, lol!!

Thanks for the feedback!!


love_2003
Thanks, I’m glad you liked the update. That money talk was necessary and hopefully nothing more will come of the money issue.

Thanks for the feedback!!



wayland
Hi Clare!

I admire the way you wrote the Willow/Kelly scene. In just a few short lines you manage to create a character, and a very real, dislikable one at that. I guess Kelly is trying to stake out ‘her’ territory, with regard to Tara.

Thanks!!! You are exactly right, to me Kelly was kinda like a dog peeing on a tree. Unfortunately, her behavior does not improve much in the next chapter.

I thought that the media room, for all its luxury, had a lonely feel to it, especially as Tara was using it as a refuge from a hanger-on in her own home.

You and Deb saw the same thing here and you were both correct. It is a lonely room, but I think things will improve in Tara’s life thanks to Willow and her group of friends.

Thanks for the feedback!

Kinda gonna repeat a bit of what Gaga01 said, I've been a terrilbe, terrible regular feedbacker, Shel.

Hey, I’m just happy to see that the Jack Jumpers didn’t carry you away, lol!

I've loved the last few updates in particular and seeing how they've really started to form a bond. Not that long ago I think we would have seen a much different outcome with the whole 'Morgan's note' thing.

It would have been disastrous, hopefully that bond is getting stronger because the next few weeks will definitely test it.

[quote And while I'm there, I know you've probably heard it enough by now, but Morgan - what a BITCA! God, you've done a wonderful job of making me absoluted detest her. [/quote]
You and several hundred other Kittens as well, lol. While not based on one specific person, she is a combination of several people that I’ve known over the years. Kinda scary, huh?

In a perfect world they'd be able to keep their secret until Thanksgiving, come out to the world, and go happily along with their lives, but we all know thats not gonna happen. And why should it. Where's the fun in that!

You never know, maybe by some miracle, they’ll get away with keeping it quiet. Hmmm…we’ll just have to wait and see.

Thanks for the feedback!


BeMyDeputy

You know, I've had multiple, when told I'm bi, say something along the lines of "Really? You're not kidding, you're actually bi?"

I've never understood it. Seriously, wtf? What do they expect? "Naw, I'm just messing with ya--I only enjoy fucking (wo)men?"

This has happened to me several times over the years and it brings to mind a specific incident with a co-worker years ago. We had gotten to be friends and he found out through the grapevine that I was gay. I never tried to hide it; it just never came up. At the time I was in my late 20’s and he was in his mid 40’s. I remember him specifically saying, “I can’t believe you’re gay. I just don’t understand it. Are you sure? I mean, you’re attractive and you could easily find a guy. Maybe you just haven’t found the right one yet?” I remember trying to explain that it had NOTHING to do with finding the ‘right guy’ or any guy for that matter, but he NEVER got it! He just kept saying, ‘Nope, there’s no way that you are reallygay.” What a dope!

Thanks for the feedback!


wimpy0729
You got in just under the wire!!

the money thing might be awkward, but maybe Tara can come up with a solution.

It’s always going to be an issue and sometimes awkward, but Willow is going to have to get used to it, cuz Tara’s not going broke anytime soon, lol. It’s addressed in the next chapter.

I love the way Willow is handling the Morgan situation. Ignoring her is probably the best thing and Willow can't afford to do anything stupid.

It shows her maturity and ability to deal with difficult situations, which is going to come in handy when they come out.

I'm not so worried about her coach's reaction, etc

Yay! You’re one of only a couple to say that:) Coaches that deal with hormonal girls and all their love life drama learn how to deal with things differently. I remember seeing a documentary on Pat Summit years ago and all that she had to deal with. I think her reaction was right on and it doesn’t mean she’s going to turn against Willow, it just means that she took it with a grain of salt. I guess that I’ve got everyone on edge so much so that their automatically skeptical of anyone new, lol.

Thanks for the feedback!!


[center]NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW[/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!

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Happy Sunday Kittens! I won’t be able to update mid week, too busy at work, but I should have a chapter on Sunday. I hope you enjoy this one…a little emotional though.


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

Chapter 25: Revelations

“So um, what’s she like?” Willow asked, nervously pacing about.

Sensing Willow’s trepidation, Tara stood and wrapped her in a tight embrace, “She’s very nice and she’s here to help and plan. Ok? Talk to me Sweetie. What are you worried about?”

“Well, how much time do you have?”

Tara smiled and kissed Willow’s forehead and continued to hold her until she felt some of the tension ease and release itself from her lover’s body.

“Tare, I really don’t know why I’m so jumpy. I just don’t want her to think that I’m the architect of your professional destruction. You know, the girl that swooped in and single handedly wrecked your career?”

Tara snickered, “Will, I’m scared about coming out as well, but it’s not going to destroy my career. I may not get the same type of offers as before, there may be less, but I’ll still work and if I don’t then you can support me.”

Willow started to laugh and relax a little. “Ah, there she is. There’s my sweet girl.” Tara said.

“Hmmm, I like that.”

“What?”

“When you call me ‘your girl.’ It makes me feel all warm and tingly, thank you.”

“Well, you are and I’m yours,” Tara smiled sweetly and pulled Willow forward, capturing her lips in a loving kiss, “Feeling better?”

“Keep doing that and I’ll be fine in no time at all.”

“Mmhh, not a problem,” Tara breathed as she reclaimed Willow. The blonde’s lips lightly brushed across Willow’s as their bodies merged together. Just when the kiss was beginning to deepen they heard the familiar sound of the gate buzzer radiating throughout the house.

“Tara!” Kelly called from the living room, “Cyndi’s here!”

“Be right out!”

“Come on Baby,” Tara gave Willow one last kiss, took her hand and led her out of the bedroom.

After the greetings and introductions, the four women gathered around the dining room table with various drinks and snacks. Tara scooted her chair closer to Willow and intertwined their fingers in Willow’s lap. Grateful for the sweet gesture, Willow smiled at Tara, took a deep breath and tried to relax.

“So, I hate for this to be so formal,” Cyndi laughed a little trying to break the ice, “I just wanted to meet with you both, review some options and get your thoughts on how you both would like to proceed.”

Tara spoke first, “Well, the whole point of staying on the DL right now is because we don’t want to get outed before the trip to Texas. If we can make it the next two weeks, I don’t see an issue with going out in public together. In fact, they’ll be no avoiding the cameras at LAX. They crawl around that place like cockroaches, especially during the holidays.”

“Tara, I was thinking…maybe it’s not a bad idea for you to be seen with Willow and photographed before the trip. Maybe a few times the next couple weeks,” Tara started to interrupt, but Cyndi just continued to talk, “What I’m saying is, let them photograph you as friends, just do your best to tone down the PDA’s.”

“But why?”

“Well this way, you give them something, without giving them anything.” Cyndi said glanced at a confused Tara.

“Oh, I get it,” Willow interjected, “It serves a dual purpose. If they’re able to photograph Tara, doing normal things, it will pacify them and they won’t be so aggressive. Kinda like throwing a dog a bone. It also gets people used to seeing Tara with me, so it’s not so much a shock later. Essentially, we’ll be hiding in plain sight. It’s probably a good idea for Tara to be seen more as well, so it doesn’t look like she has anything to hide in the first place.”

Tara and Cyndi turned to Willow with a look of utter disbelief.

The redhead look at Tara and shrugged her shoulders, “What?”

“Tara, your girlfriend is a genius! Willow, I like the way you think.” Cyndi exclaimed, winking at the redhead.

Kelly sat on the opposite side of the table rolling her eyes and crossing her arms across her chest, “Um, excuse me, but aren’t you guys trying to keep Willow a complete secret? If I’m not mistaken, won’t being pictured together be a red flag to her family?”

Tara was still staring at Willow with a big goofy grin when she answered Kelly, “No, it’s perfect actually. If it’s just casual pictures and no avoidyness, the pictures won’t make any mainstream outlets, probably just some random blogs and such. No big headlines or anything to draw attention. Even if the pictures do make it into print, we’ll already be in Texas by then and it won’t matter.”

“Exactly,” Willow said, grinning back at Tara.

“But keep it casual. For example, meet somewhere for lunch, maybe catch a movie, go shopping…you know, things friends would do. Just be careful not to hold hands or kanoodle.”

Willow and Tara giggled as Tara gave Willow’s hand a reassuring squeeze and the sweetest lopsided smile. The lover’s eyes lingered on each other for several long seconds, both thinking the same thoughts: When are these people going to leave?!

“Ok, anything else?” Tara asked.

“Tara, I think it’s a good idea to get the jump on the Paparazzi and issue a statement, before they out you with misinformation. By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, there may be rumors”

“Ok, what did you have in mind?”

“Maybe People magazine or Us Weekly. We allow them to break the story as an exclusive. Then hit a few talk shows, if necessary. Maybe Ellen, Oprah or both. Ellen may be the better choice, since she’s been there, but you know Oprah is…well, she’s Oprah. Kelly, what’s coming up for Tara?”

“Oh, just the usual November sweeps stuff, plus a few other shows to promote her People’s Choice nomination.” Kelly stated vaguely.

Willow shifted in her seat, pulling her legs under her to get more comfortable and reached for her drink when Kelly glanced in her direction. “Um you know Willow, you don’t have to stay for this stuff. It’s all just boring business items. I mean it looks like you may be more comfortable out on the couch or something.”

Willow couldn’t believe her ears and Tara was bewildered as to why Kelly would make such a bold suggestion.

Willow raised her head defiantly and sat up a little straighter, “Actually, I find all this very interesting and if TARA doesn’t mind, I’d like to stay.”

Cyndi was confused, to say the least and her eyes were darting back and forth between Willow and Kelly. For a brief second, she thought she saw Willow’s eyes go completely black as the redhead looked as if she was going to shoot lasers at the assistant. Something was going on and she made a mental note to ask Tara later.

“Baby, of course you can stay. I wouldn’t want you anywhere else.” Tara reassured Willow as she sent a questioning glare in Kelly’s direction.

“Anyway, Kelly can you be more specific please?”

“Sure, next week Tara’s doing Kimmel and Conan plus she’s set to do some press in New York right before Christmas.” Kelly said in an irritable tone.

“Specifically.” Cyndi asked, with a tinge of annoyance in her voice. If there was one thing that she did not tolerate, it was a poor attitude. Especially towards the person that pays you.

Kelly sighed heavily and continued, “She’s doing a week long media blitz for Shelter Rock. So far we have Regis, GMA, The View, and Letterman.

Willow looked at Tara quizzically, she knew about Kimmel and Conan, but the New York trip was news to her. She suddenly felt very much out of the loop. She glanced across the table and caught Kelly smirking. She narrowed her eyes at the brunette who continued her conversation with Cyndi.

Tara couldn’t help but notice Willow’s growing insecurity and leaned in to whisper in her ear, “It’s an Oscar push for the movie, it all came up in the last few days. I’m sorry, I was going to talk to you about it tonight once I had all the details.”

“It’s ok Tare.” Even though her voice was saying it was ok, Willow’s eyes and mannerisms were betraying her. She let go of Tara’s hand, cast her eyes downward and began to play with the hem of her jeans. She didn’t mean to pout; she just needed a minute to think.

Tara rested both hands on Willow’s to stop the fidgeting and get her attention. She motioned with her eyes and tilted her head towards the kitchen, hoping that Willow would get the hint.

Tara stood, “Um, I’m going to freshen up my drink. Would anyone like anything?” Cyndi smiled and slid her glass towards Tara, as she continued her conversation with Kelly.

“I’d like more as well, I’ll go with you Tare.” Willow also stood and followed Tara away from the table.

As soon as they were in the kitchen, Tara pulled Willow around the corner and out of sight of the others.

“Sweetie, I’m so sor-” Tara began, but was cut off by Willow’s lips firmly planted on hers. Tara moaned into the tender kiss, ending with a few quick pecks.

“Tara, I’m ok. I just felt a little…I don’t know, it’s not your fault.”

“That w-was never m-my intention. I’m s-sorry, I’m an idiot, I
sh-should’ve mentioned it t-to you already.”

“Ssshhh honey, I’m fine,” placing a finger on Tara’s lips, “I just needed to wrap my head around you going 3000 miles away for a week. I’m just…I’m gonna miss you, that’s all.”

“I know.” Tara agreed as she leaned her forehead on Willows.

“Can we talk about it later? You know, alone after? Without Kelly around.”

Tara reached up and caressed Willow’s cheek with her thumb, “Sure Sweetie.” It was then that she understood why Willow got her feelings hurt in the first place. Kelly had made Willow feel like the junior partner. She knew something that Willow didn’t and then rubbed her face in it.

“Willow, what’s going on between you and Kelly?”

Willow shrugged her shoulders, “I don’t really know. It started the night I came over and you were downstairs. She got pissy with me and I really haven’t the slightest clue as to why.”

“You never mentioned it.”

“Well as I recall, we did get kind of distracted,” Willow said smiling seductively at Tara, “And I guess I just forgot all about it.”

“Come on, let’s get back in there and get this over with,” Tara said as she started to walk away.

“Hey, are you mad at me?”

“Oh, God no. Not at all, I’m just tired and I’m more than a little angry with Kelly. She has no right to make you feel that way.”

“I guess we can add another name to the growing list of people whose butts need a swift kicking.” Willow said with a slight smile, kissing Tara gently on the cheek.

They finally returned to the table, with fresh drinks and rejoined the discussion, wrapping things up about an hour later. Cyndi suggested that they meet with Tara’s current TV bosses and the movie studio executives to keep them in the loop. She didn’t want the studio to get miffed that their Oscar push turned into a three-ring circus revolving around Tara’s personal life. Cyndi warned Tara that they might try to persuade her to wait until after the New York trip, but to stand her ground. Since Oscar nominations weren’t announced until the end of January, it wasn’t really feasible to try and hide it for several months.

The sheer emotional weight of the discussion had exhausted both Willow and Tara, and when Cyndi left, they retreated to the bedroom for some much needed rest.

***************************************
About an hour later, Willow was awakened by the sound of Tara gasping for breath and moaning. Willow was sleepy and a little confused before she figured out that Tara was having a nightmare.

Willow propped herself up on her elbow and placed her other hand on Tara’s shoulder, gently trying to wake her. Unfortunately, the shaking and gasping just worsened. Willow began to get scared and started to wonder if it was a dream or if her girlfriend was having a seizure. Suddenly Tara screamed and sat straight up in the bed.

“Tara, are you ok?”

Tara’s eyes were darting back and forth and she seemed disoriented as tears streamed down her cheeks, “What?” She said breathlessly.

“Baby, you were having a bad dream and you scared me half to death. Are you ok?”

Tara sat, still gasping for breath, then turned abruptly and got out of bed, “I’m fine, just need to use the bathroom.” She said as she grabbed her robe and moved away quickly.

Willow was now wide awake and left wondering what had Tara so completely terrified. In the all the times that they’d slept together, this was definitely a first. Tara had never mentioned having nightmares before and Willow had not noticed anything out of the ordinary. She waited awhile, but when Tara failed to return, Willow decided to go find her. She pulled on a long t-shirt and padded into the bathroom. She flipped on the light, but there was no sign of Tara. Willow was baffled. To her knowledge there was only one way in and one way out. Where the hell is she? As she stood, wondering where Tara was, she heard a soft whimpering coming from Tara’s closet.

Willow slowly opened the door to the darkened room. The light from the bathroom spilled into the closet, causing dark ominous shadows to dance on the ceiling and walls. As Willow’s eyes adjusted, she saw Tara’s huddled form on the floor in the far corner. The blonde was sitting with her back to the wall, hugging her knees with her face buried between them and sobbing. Willow’s breath caught as she quickly closed the distance and dropped to the floor next to her still terrified girlfriend. She wrapped her arms around Tara and dropped several kisses on the top of her head.

“Ssshhh, Baby. I’m here and everything is ok. It was just a bad dream and I’ve got you now.” Willow’s heart ached for her lover and she wanted nothing more than to soothe Tara as her body continued to convulse with painful sobs.

Willow continued to sit and hug Tara close, gently rocking them back and forth for several long minutes until the crying started to lessen.

“Night terrors,” Tara mumbled almost inaudibly.

“What?”

“N-Night terrors, I’ve been having them since I was a teenager.” Tara said as she raised her head, sniffing and wiping her nose on her sleeve.

Willow sat back, allowing Tara space to sit up straighter and try to compose herself. “I’ll be right back,” Willow said, and Tara nodded as Willow walked swiftly out of the closet. She returned less than a minute later with a wet washcloth and a box of tissues.

Tara took a few minutes to get cleaned up, as she allowed her knees to descend into a more relaxed position. Now sitting
cross-legged, she placed her hands on her ankles, taking in a deep breath and exhaling before speaking.

“There’s something I need to tell you Willow, w-why I have these n-night terrors.” Tara glanced up, meeting Willow’s worried green eyes. “When I w-was fifteen I was on a show, S-Seven Coves? Anyway, m-my career was really st-starting to take off and there was this boy on th-the show. He was guest starring for a few months, and the st-studio thought it would be g-good if we were s-seen out together. S-So we st-started pseudo dating. Only after awhile it turned into r-real dating.”

“Baby, you’re stuttering so much and it’s killing me to see you like this. Please, try and relax. You can tell me anything. I’m your safe place remember?” Willow’s face was full of concern as she put one hand on Tara’s knee and used the other to gently massage her shoulder.

Tara nodded, closing her eyes and breathing deeply; she continued, “Anyway, I was confused, a-about my sexuality. I was having crushes on girls and not boys. I didn’t really understand what was going on. So, I started dating him because I thought I was supposed to. I liked him but there was no spark…no nothing really. Unfortunately, I had n-no experience with any of this, so I thought that’s what it was supposed to be like. A m-month went by and we w-were getting more intimate. I didn’t know where I wanted it to go, but I didn’t d-do anything t-to stop it either.”

Tara paused to blow her nose and Willow’s mind went into overdrive. A million and two thoughts about what could have possibly happened to Tara were flying through at light speed, but she kept coming back to one thing: Oh God, Tara was raped. This one scenario stuck and just the thought that it may be true, made Willow nauseous. Her heart was pounding and if she heard Tara say it out loud, she wasn’t sure she would be able to stop herself from throwing up. The more she allowed her mind to wander and wrap around that word, the sicker she felt. All she wanted to do was just to hold Tara and make it all go away.

By the time Tara started talking again, Willow’s face was completely pale and a thin line of sweat had formed on her forehead.

“L-Like I said things were pr-progressing kind of fast and then…th-then…” Tara’s voice trailed off and she started to sob.

“Oh God Baby, what did he do to you?” Willow could no longer control the tears as they began streaming down her pale, freckled cheeks and dripping onto the floor. She weaved her fingers through Tara’s hair, trying to tuck it behind her ear and out of her face. The thin blonde strands seemingly glued to Tara’s tear soaked cheeks.

Tara shook her head vehemently, “N-No, he didn’t. It w-was consensual and then…I-I d-d-didn’t, I didn’t mean for it t-to happen.”

Willow swallowed thickly and whispered, “What happened Tara?”

Tara started sobbing uncontrollably, pulling her knees up again and hugging them to her chest. She wanted to disappear. She wanted to curl up into a ball and disappear. The thought of telling Willow and having her walk out the door was almost more painful than the event itself. She pulled herself together and mumbled, “I-I got p-pregnant.”

Willow sat still, staring at the blonde and willing herself to say something supportive, but nothing would come out of her mouth.

Tara slowly raised her head to look at Willow, “O-One time. I only did it o-once.”

“Oh God Baby, I’m so sorry.” Willow whispered, the tears still flowing.

“Then I-I d-did s-something h-h-horrible,” Tara said as she looked into Willow’s eyes expecting to see rejection, but instead saw nothing but love and concern, “I…I hh-had an abor-” Tara cut herself off and began to sob uncontrollably again.

“Sssshhhh, it’s ok. You don’t have to say it, ever. I understand and it’s ok Tara.” Willow wrapped Tara in a tight embrace as Tara collapsed into her; pressing her face snug against Willow’s chest and holding on for dear life.

A little while later, Tara sat up, “I need to blow my nose. It’s getting all over you…I’m sorry.”

Willow simply shrugged her shoulders, “I don’t care. Tara, who else knows?”

“No one.”

“No one? Not even the boy?”

“No.” Tara whispered, sniffling and wiping her nose.

“What about your Mom?”

Tara shuttered, closed her eyes and nodded her head, “When I told m-my Mom, sh-she went ballistic. I didn’t w-want to go through with it Willow. She s-said that I d-didn’t have a choice, that it would ruin my career. S-so she made arrangements at a clinic in Oregon under a f-fake name.”

“They didn’t recognize you?”

“No, I w-was still pretty much unknown, just starting to get popular. When w-we got back, she never mentioned it again. It was like it n-never even happened,” Tara took a deep breath, “I’m sorry Willow.”

“For what?” Willow asked, running her hand down Tara’s arm.

“For not telling you sooner, for scaring you in the middle of the night, for…I don’t know, everything?” Tara said looking up at Willow with swollen blue eyes.

“Tara, you don’t have anything to apologize for.”

“I just, I thought if I told you…then you wouldn’t want to be anywhere near me. I was so stupid and irresponsible.”

“Hey, it was 8 years ago and you were only 15, just a baby yourself and you made a mistake. We all make mistakes; besides, you’re telling me now. And you know what?”

“What?”

“There’s nothing you could ever say to keep me away from you,” Willow cupped Tara’s cheeks in her hands, looking directly into her eyes, “…because, I love you…I love you so much.” There they were, those three magical little words. They were out and Willow didn’t even try to stop them.

Tara heard and then felt the words reverberate throughout her body. Willow didn’t hate her. Willow wasn’t leaving. Willow loved her. Tara gazed into Willow’s green eyes, that were glistening with unshed tears, as she felt Willow pull her forward into a soft and gentle kiss.

Tara pulled back just enough to see her lover’s face and whispered, “I love you too Willow. I’m so in love with you.” As Tara spoke she pulled Willow’s lips to her and they melted into one another as they mumbled “I Love You’s” over and over again.

They stayed huddled together for quite awhile until Willow stood and held a hand out to Tara, “Come on Baby, let’s got to bed.” Tara nodded, smiling up at Willow and took her hand. Allowing Willow to lead her out of the closet and back to bed.

[Ariel]

DIBS!!!

Shel,

So much here. I felt my throat close, I was so moved by their talk at the end. I’m trying to be all chronology girl and go in order, but it isn’t working.

Willow slowly opened the door to the darkened room. The light from the bathroom spilled into the closet, causing dark ominous shadows to dance on the ceiling and walls.

Really moving description, you set up hiding and secrets so powerfully.

“There’s something I need to tell you Willow, w-why I have these n-night terrors.” Tara glanced up, meeting Willow’s worried green eyes. “When I w-was fifteen I was on a show, S-Seven Coves? Anyway, m-my career was really st-starting to take off and there was this boy on th-the show. He was guest starring for a few months, and the st-studio thought it would be g-good if we were s-seen out together. S-So we st-started pseudo dating. Only after awhile it turned into r-real dating.”

“Baby, you’re stuttering so much and it’s killing me to see you like this. Please, try and relax. You can tell me anything. I’m your safe place remember?” Willow’s face was full of concern as she put one hand on Tara’s knee and used the other to gently massage her shoulder.

Touching use of Tara’s stutter, loved Willow’s rock solid love and support through this whole scene! some more

I’m really glad that Tara wasn’t raped. That’s the classic trauma and this one is more realistic and it also shows something about the kind of person Tara is; that it still hurts her. Very new take on her mother, no longer a force of pure good in her life.

“There’s nothing you could ever say to keep me away from you,” Willow cupped Tara’s cheeks in her hands, looking directly into her eyes, “…because, I love you…I love you so much.” There they were, those three magical little words. They were out and Willow didn’t even try to stop them.

Tara heard and then felt the words reverberate throughout her body. Willow didn’t hate her. Willow wasn’t leaving. Willow loved her. Tara gazed into Willow’s green eyes, that were glistening with unshed tears, as she felt Willow pull her forward into a soft and gentle kiss.

Tara pulled back just enough to see her lover’s face and whispered, “I love you too Willow. I’m so in love with you.” As Tara spoke she pulled Willow’s lips to her and they melted into one another as they mumbled “I Love You’s” over and over again.

Shel, I got teary-eyed over this. You kept us waiting a long time and it was worth it. So tender, hearts open and their eyes so full of love for each other . . .

Then, “allowing Willow to lead her out of the closet and back to bed” lovely!

[center]*************************************************[/center]

Tara smiled and kissed Willow’s forehead and continued to hold her until she felt some of the tension ease and release itself from her lover’s body.

So much love and tenderness. Love them with the “my girl” talk.

Really liked how Tara included Willow and was so sensitive to her feelings. The fact that they talk and listen to each other like adults is really refreshing!

Also the talk with Cyndi, really believable.

Kelly is a HORRIFFIC BITCH!!! (see note below)

Good that Willow can see the strategy. It is completely believable since skilled softball requires strategic thinking, too. Being an effective team captain is the same. Side note on Willow’s complaint, I’m more worried about it getting out to the other girls. That can create division very easily. It will take skilled handling to keep that from happening. As Captain, Willow has some of the responsibility for team morale. I actually would love to see her as the Captain, see her as a leader.

[center]*************************************************[/center]
On a less romantic note, Kelly the BITCH GODDESS!!!!! and Kelly deserves and !!!!!!
Tara needs to shit-can THAT loser in a New York minute! Bye, bye bitchie!!!!!!!!

Anyway, this installment really got me going – sorry for the long post!

Ariel
How I Met Your Mother

[Laragh]

but I’ll still work and if I don’t then you can support me.”

N'awww! That was so cute!

“So, I hate for this to be so formal,” Cyndi laughed a little trying to break the ice, “I just wanted to meet with you both, review some options and get your thoughts on how you both would like to proceed.”

Wow, I wish I'd had a Cyndi when I was coming out!! Efficient!

I'm starting to feel like Kelly has a big ole crush on Tara.

Aww man. Poor Tara. Shit, that's awful. So much to deal with, so young. Fuck.

But, the I love you's...they were just about perfect.

I'm sad and happy now. Damn you with your confusing emotional updates.

Looking forward to next Sunday!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I'm glad that both Cyndi & Tara are aware of Kelly's worsening attitude... I hope Tara very soon solves that problem permanently... I'm glad that Willow now knows Tara's secret that has bothered her for years... Extra big yay for Willow saying those 3 magical words...

[LonelyTara]

I'm glad that they've finally admitted their love, though I'm sad that it had to be prompted by such painful memories for Tara. It's tragic that her mother forced her to have an abortion because she was worried about her daughter's career. How traumatic.

[Grimm]

Wow, You caught me off guard with that one. I'm kind of stunned right now. This has 2 be a first..at least it's the first time that I have seen it in a Willow/Tara fic. Without getting into the whole abortion rights issue, I'm shocked to read that Tara, at any age, would have an abortion. I have very mixed emotions about this right now. The strongest being...I think I love your Tara even more..because you have made her very human. In almost every fic out there Tara has been put up on a pedestal..made out to be almost Saint like. No human being can possibly live up to those kinds of expectations. Tara made a foolish mistake when she was young, like we all do, and 8 years later she is still suffering the consequences of her actions.

Man, You have huge balls (figuratively) for taking such a beloved character and putting her in such a controversial situation. I for one love it..bravo .

ps. Kelly deserves to go to hell..with gasoline drawers on!

[Silent_X]

This chapter was very moving. What a terrible thing for Tara to have gone through that. I was with Willow when Tara started her story- I thought 'Oh god, she was raped.' The twist was surprising and original, and I liked how you used it to bring more depth to your characters.

Also, this:

For a brief second, she thought she saw Willow’s eyes go completely black as the redhead looked as if she was going to shoot lasers at the assistant.

I giggled. Reminds me of Lily's 'You are dead to me' look from HIMYM.

As always, I am anxious for more. Keep up the good work.

[indigokane]

great update!!!

bout time Kelly's true face started to show. whether she has a crush or is an opputunistic freeloader, she's still a coniving bitch and going to cause Tara major problems.

it's great how they trust in their love and each other, i think they will be needing that confidence soon.

Tara's secret was bad, but i think it could have been worse. it is nice that she has the heart to be bothered by it though, shows real depth on her part.

this story is sooo addictive!!! eagerly waiting for more,

tina

[BeMyDeputy]

Okay, it sounds like I'm in the minority here, but my reaction to Tara's big reveal was "Oh. Okay. And you haven't gotten therapy about your decades of night terrors WHY?"

I'm not saying that abortion is a trivial thing, particularly when it's imposed. And I'm sure that the experience has the potential to be scaring; that it has been here is quite believable. But it's the fact that this has clearly damaged Tara in a way that clinical psychology is there to address, and she (apparently) hasn't sought help, that bothers me. She has the resources, and probably had them at the time it occurred. I hope that Willow insists that Tara get the help she needs.

I really liked how seamlessly the "I love you"s came into play; it felt very natural for Willow to say, and I didn't realize until you pointed it out that they hadn't been exchanged yet. So good on you.

As for Kelly, she's being a petulant child. I'm guessing she's either afraid of her career being tanked when Tara comes out or has a crush; either way it's pedestrian. I'm sure that she has an NDA in her contract, so Tara should just fire her now (or at least ask Cyndi about the best time to do so without repercussions). Speaking of which, I was surprised they didn't bring up Morgan to Cyndi, since she's demonstrated she isn't to be considered above outing Tara.