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

[Finey_McFine]

taranwillow4ever:
YAY 1st DIBS!!

I love the charactaristics of Rachel, and the obvious warmth between the sisters.

Writing the sibling interaction is so much fun! I’m the oldest of 5 myself, so I know a little about it, lol.

Always look forward to this fic. I think it is my current favorite.

Thanks so much! I love yours as well…especially Meeting Expectations. What an incredible journey!


Thanks for the feedback!



silent_x

I also really like tex-mex food

Take a guess what restaurant Willow is talking about!! It’ll get a mention in one of the next couple chapters, simply because they have the best fajitas on the planet & it’s my fav!!

Coincidentally, we have to drive into Houston to pick up my mother from the airport this evening.

IAH??

Looking forward to next week's update, as usual! I'm kinda nervous but excited to see what happens when Willow's mom meets Tara.

It’s umm…well…see below!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


brave-little-toaster:

AHHHHHH! SO CUTE! I loved the part where Willow was teasing Rachel. Cracked me up. :]

Thanks!! Tons of fun to write!!

Thanks for the feedback!


Laragh:

Girl knows her food.

After I wrote that chapter, I was ‘forced’ to go get me some!!

Haha at Rachel just not getting it...and Jeff's delayed reaction. Oh boys.

Jeff…definitely a clueless wonder. I have a feeling that if I had to live with Rachael & near Sheila…I’d do a lot of tuning out as well, LOL!

You delivered on the Texas!! I could picture it in leaps and bounds

YEAH!!!

I don't like horses, but hot damn, I loved that scene. I think Tara's entracement was the best of all. Awesome.

You don’t like horses?? You know, they really do not eat arm, lol. I don’t have a ton of experience with them, but have been riding many times and they are so much fun!!

Thanks for the feedback!


gaga01:

I can't say enough how much I love this story!!

THANKS!!!

Poor Tara, she couldn't even rest during the flight...hopefully things won't go too horribly with Willow's mother…

That’s kinda like saying that the sky is not blue, lol.

Willow teasing her sister Rachael about Tara being her girlfriend was hilarious and awesome!! And Willow horse backriding like that? So cool!!

So glad you liked!! Thanks!!!


Thanks for the feedback!


zampsa19752001:

I loved Willow's bantering with Rach. And Rach's reaction to Tara... Jeff is so whipped... Big wow for horsie-Willow...

Jeff is so completely whipped…poor guy, lol!!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


wimpy0729:

I loved it all, but I gotta say I love Rachael's reaction to Tara. Totally had me ROFLMAO. I admit, I about had the same reaction when I met Amber in person.

Me too! My brain completely shut down.

And now we are introduced to Rachael and Jeff -- two more characters you already have us liking and totally enjoying their banter.

We’ll finaly meet Hunter in the next chapter and the rest of the clan after that. PLUS…extended family and a surprise character!!

Willow on her horse. I was right there with Tara and had to get a tissue to catch the drool.

Ahhh, such a lovely image. If only we could have gotten to see Tara ride…oh the possibilities. * smirks *

Thanks for the feedback!


DaddyCatAlso:

Hee, an _AMerican Pie_ reference

That’s two people that caught it!

And I could picutre the scenery quite clearly

I’ll be making it prettier than it actually is, lol.


Thanks for the feedback!


JustSkipIt:

This is probably my favorite chapter yet although I can't put my finger on just why.

A lot of people have said that and I loved it as well. I went back and re-read it a few days after posting and I think it’s because it flowed quite nicely and was just ‘real.’ I had fun writing it and have been planning it for so long, that it was probably the most thought out chapter thus far.

Driving: I’ve never been pulled over for going to slow and I have to admit, it makes me crazy when people drive at or under the speed limit in the left lane. Simply because, I always get stuck in the middle or right lane behind grandma, plus if you’re not doing 80 on a TX freeway…you’re gonna get run down.

Willow messing with Raechael is great and Raechel's reaction is just amazing.

It’s only just begun…we’ve yet to meet the boys!

Is this Willow's parents's place or Jeff & Raechel's?

They are going to Willow’s parents house. Sorry that it wasn’t clear. And yes, both parents will be there, as well as Hunter.


Thanks for the feedback!!


willowtaralover:

Hmm, do either Tara or Amber actually have bony shoulders? I know she has shoulder bones but still.

LOL, everyone has a bony shoulder…especially if you’re lying on it and get tousled.

I gotta admit I am a sucker for sweet moments like this so please keep em coming

My favorites as well!

Well, we all approve of Tara's excellent taste in women, lol.

Indeed!

Is it possible to actually find girls this awesome and this hot, or was Tara created just for Willow?

Well, they were definitely MFEO…but I landed a totally awesome girl, so I know they exist!!

Now I’m pretty sure that Willow is the youngest sibling, but does this make Rachael the eldest?

Yes and yes. I ran through the sibling order earlier in the story, but it was quite a ways back. So, here’s the run down: Rachael 31, Grayson 28, Elijah 25, Hunter 23, & Willow 21.

This scene was frickin hilarious, however I have to admit that as I’m going to this years HalloWhedon event where Amber is a guest I will more than likely be reacting the same as Rachael when I meet her.

She is absolutely lovely and will put you at ease right way!

Jeff even seemed to take the idea of Tara being in the car quite calmly, far more so than Rachael.

Jeff is fairly clueless and extremely whipped, lol.


Thanks for the wonderful compliments Rick!!! It is much appreciated!


bouncer73:

can't wait to see what sheila does when she finds out who willows GF is

Hmmm, we’ll see. She is definitely a force of nature.


Thanks for the feedback!!!

beautiful_love:

Once again I'm late on leaving feedback. But I have a good excuse this time. I was actually working on my own story.

That excuse is just fine with me because I LOVE your fic!!!

I loved how she flipped out when she saw Tara at the airport. And naughty Willow, teasing her sister like that. Lol. Sibling love.

Can you imagine Rachael at that Halloween party and meeting Brad Pitt?? Maybe in a future chapter she’ll come out to LA to visit…now that would be fun!! lol

And Tara's such a gracious celebrity. Makes her even hotter... if that's possible. Though her nervousness at meeting Willow's family is just adorable.

She is adorable, isn’t she? No wonder Willow loves her so much! Ah yes, meeting the parents. Perhaps the most awkward moment ever, lol.

Thanks for the feedback!!!!


wayland:

This is great fun to read. I loved the airport scene, and in Rachael and Jeff you've introduced two new characters and made them interesting and believable. I'm impressed.

Thanks! I’m glad you like them and I hope that you like the rest of the siblings as well:)

Thanks for the feedback!


nightmask:

loved the whole part when Willow gets on the horse and how you described how beautiful she looked to Tara

If only we really could see this in real life…. * swoons *

I really enjoyed reading the way you made Willow's sister and brother in law such distinct characters,

Thanks! Everyone seems to agree and I hope you like the rest of the siblings as well!


Thanks for the feedback!!

Ariel:

I’ve been reading and re-reading it partly because I just love it and partly to try to pinpoint the details of why it works so well.

That has been the general consensus and I’m not sure either, it just…flows. It was so easy to write and I loved writing it! s

Tara does not have a bony shoulder!

OK, you and Rick seem to have serious misgivings regarding the shoulder boniness of one Tara Maclay. See Rick’s fb for my rebuttle! Lol

Tenderness, caring, part of what makes the fic special and it shines here.

Willow has the gift of redirection…she’ll be a great parent someday!

Willow hearing Tara’s stutter and the famous actress needing reassurance. It touched my heart.

I think everyone needs a little reassurance sometimes.

Having Hunter set up Rachel to pick them up was a fresh twist that works on a bunch of levels. First, it’s brother playing a joke, then it’s getting to know Rachel and her husband (ol’ whats-his-name) and the whole funny meeting when Rachel gets that little sis actually bagged a star. Then driving hilarity ensues . . .

I think this right here is why the chapter worked so well. Even though Rachael is overwrought with ‘Tara Maclay,’ how they interact with each other, doesn’t change. They don’t miss a beat. Hunter orchestrated the set up, but Willow picked up on it immediately, which meant that a) They’ve done it before and b) It would have happened regardless of Tara being there or not. Plus Jeff doesn’t change a bit, he was just like Willow described…Tara or not.

You get a real sense of a real family with all its foolishness.

Just wait until all the siblings are together…

Wow! *sighs again* Just beautiful! She’s there, red hair catching the last rays of sun and I swear I can feel Tara’s heart pounding as she looks at her. (nice touch back to the title – an overlay of that image “Racing the Rain.”)

Thanks! I was planning that scene for weeks! I must have rewritten it half a dozen times, so I’m glad it worked!!!

I’m glad you liked the chapter and I hope that the all the ones of their trip home are equally likeable!

Thanks for the feedback!


faolan228:

Oh man, I'm having anxiety attacks FOR them when it comes to finally meet Willow's folks.

I have a feeling that everything will be perfect…NOT! Lol

She found out a bit later, it's been a couple years, and she still asks when I'm bringing a nice boy home, so I can really sympathize with Willow on the whole Sheila thing.

Hmm, I’m sorry to hear that. It still kinda boggles my mind how ridiculous people act when they find out. I mean, it’s the 21st century, aren’t we over reacting so poorly yet??

Gotta love the whole realistic human interactions you have going. You've even got those non-nonsensical conversations that people have everyday.

Thanks! It just goes to show you how full my life is of nonsensical conversations, because I sure can write them well! Lol

Thanks for the feedback!

NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: R (Language)

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 all and Happy Sunday Kittens! I’m glad all ya’ll liked the last chapter and I hope you continue to enjoy the trip home! Once again, I’m unedited and tried to catch as much as possible, but if you see something that needs to be fixed, please PM and let me know. Enjoy!

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

Chapter 33: Meet The Rents

Willow took Tara’s hand and entwined their fingers as they closed the distance from the barn to the house, “So, are you ready?”

“Yep, let’s do this.” Tara replied with a lopsided smile as they walked up the back steps and into Willow’s house.

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

The girls entered the house through the backdoor and into the kitchen; Tara’s heart was pounding as her death grip on Willow’s hand tightened. She tried her best to clam herself, but her nerves were definitely getting the best of her. Get it together Tara! You’ve stood on a stage and addressed millions of people. You can meet two people without collapsing, for Gods sake! They’re just people, just two regular people. Half of which would probably like to see you drawn and quartered. Ok…maybe not so regular.

The first thing to assault Tara’s senses was the delicious aroma that hung thick in the air. Tara’s mother seldom cooked anything that wasn’t from a box or a can, so she couldn’t help but think that this is what the home of a real family must smell like. The only two people in the large kitchen were Rachael and a young man that was the spitting image of Willow; from his red hair, to his freckles to his bright green eyes…a male replica. Rachael stood at the kitchen island, mumbling and digging through her purse and the young man, Tara assumed to be Hunter, sat next to her on the stool with an amused look on his face. Willow quickly closed the distance between herself and Rachael, dragging Tara along with her.

“Pay up sis!” The redhead demanded, thrusting her free hand out, palm side up.

Rachael whipped out a $10 bill and slapped it in her little sister’s hand, “Fine! But for the record, this little set up…so not fair!” She protested, turning to face Hunter; who shrugged his shoulders and grinned.

Willow quipped, “Ahhh, so good to be home,” as Rachael turned and marched out of the room.

Willow and Hunter locked eyes and erupted in laughter, hi-fiving as Hunter rose from the stool and wrapped Willow in a warm embrace.

“Good to see ya Will.”

“You too Hunt.” Willow replied squeezing her brother tightly.

They broke apart and Hunter turned his attention towards the blonde, “And you must be Tara. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

“It’s very nice to meet you too,” Tara reached out and shook his hand, “I’ve heard so much about you, I kinda feel like I know you already.”

Hunter smiled warmly, nodding his head, “I feel the same way. Willow talks about you non-stop.”

Tara blushed and batted her eyes affectionately towards Willow, “All good, I hope?”

Willow was beaming, visibly thrilled that Tara seemed to click right away with her favorite brother, “Absolutely,” the redhead answered, locking eyes with her love and re-taking her hand.

“Is that my little girl I hear?” Willow’s father called out as he moved towards her.

“Daddy!” Willow exclaimed, with the enthusiasm of a toddler, dropping Tara’s hand and practically lunging at her father.

Willow was met with open arms, the close relationship clearly evident between father and daughter. Tara stood back and quietly observed the heartfelt exchange. Willow closed her eyes, clinging to her father as he dropped a kiss on the top of her head and rubbed circles on her back. Tara noted that he had an air of kindness and warmth about him; she could clearly see the affection for his youngest child reflected in his light brown eyes.

“Oh, how I’ve missed you my darling,” he breathed as he hugged Willow tighter, “How was your flight?”

“It was good, smooth sailing! Er, flying that is.” Willow lamented as she disentangled herself from her father’s embrace.

Ira glanced over the top of Willow’s head and caught Tara’s eye, “You must be the famous Tara,” He chuckled outloud, “Uh, no pun intended.” He quipped as he reached out to shake Tara’s hand.

Tara smiled sweetly, “Hello Mr. Rosenberg, it’s a pleasure to m-meet you,” She stammered and cursed herself inwardly.

“The pleasure is all mine and please, call me Ira. Mr. Rosenberg is my father.” He replied with a wink, returning a smile to the blonde. He opened his mouth to speak again, but was interrupted by a loud piercing voice.

“I just don’t think you should commit to a color for the nursery until you’re 100% sure it’s a girl.” The older woman’s shrill voice echoed through out the house.

“Ugh, Mother! It’s a girl, the ultrasound already confirmed it weeks ago.”

“I’m telling you those tests are not 100%. Your father and I thought Elijah was a girl for months. We didn’t know for sure until I was already 9 months along.”

“Well, that sure explains a lot,” Hunter mumbled. Causing both Willow and Tara to snicker and prompting a fatherly look from Ira.

The older woman finally made her way into the kitchen and for the first time since arriving at the ranch, Tara noticed Willow become visibly uncomfortable. Her body language changed completely, she began to fidget with her unoccupied hands and shift her weight from one foot to the other, almost as if she forgot how to stand normally. Her breathing became erratic and a look of panic was beginning to form on her face. Tara’s heart ached for Willow, not being able to take another minute of her discomfort, Tara moved closer to her love and placed a comforting hand on the small of her back. Willow closed her eyes, took a deep breath and relaxed into the touch; the bouncing stopped and her breathing seemed to slow.

“Willow honey, it’s good to see you.” The older woman stated flatly, moving forward and lightly hugging her daughter.

Willow returned the brief hug, “Good to see you too,” She pulled out of the awkward embrace and stepped back slightly, “Mom, this is my girl friend, Tara Maclay. Tara, this is my mother, Sheila Rosenberg.”

Tara stood up straight and confident, offering a hand to Sheila, “Hello, Mrs. Rosenberg. It’s very nice to meet you.” She wasn’t sure exactly how she pulled it off, but she managed to speak without a hint of a stutter.

Sheila nodded her head, “Hello,” and weakly shook Tara’s hand. An awkward silence fell over the room and all that could be heard was boiling water in a pot on the stove.

Willow studied her mother’s face intently, desperately searching for a hint of emotion or recognition or anything, for that matter, but could find nothing. In Willow’s child-like fantasy, she imagined Sheila immediately seeing the love she shared with Tara and realizing how ridiculous she’d been. Perhaps even recognizing that she was someone who is important in the world and welcoming her into the family with open arms. Unfortunately, this was real life and Willow’s fantasy disappeared with a ’poof’ when Sheila quickly turned away from Tara, walking towards the stove and rambling about dinner. The others began talking amongst themselves in an attempt to break the uncomfortable silence.

Willow’s shoulders sagged as the air left her lungs in a long defeated sigh. She turned towards Tara and mouthed, I’m sorry. As Tara took her hand and mouthed back with an, “I love you.” Willow nodded and smiled sweetly, taking a deep breath in an attempt to strengthen her resolve. She was going to need all the strength she could muster to get through the next 8 days.

Willow pulled on Tara’s hand, “Come on, let’s go get our things and get settled before dinner.”

Rachael piped up, “I already had Jeff take everything to your room, Will.”

“Oh wow, thanks Rach. Then we’ll just go get cleaned up before dinner.”

“Willow, don’t dawdle. It’s ready and we’re all starving.” Sheila offered, never turning her attention from the stove.

“Yes ma’am.” Willow responded as she led Tara out of the kitchen.

They walked through the house in silence, while Willow’s mind reeled from the effects of her mother’s cold shoulder. All she wanted was to be alone with Tara for a few moments, to feel the comfort and reassurance of their love. They slowly trudged up the stairs, turning right at the top and heading down a long hallway to a narrow door at the end. Willow opened the door to another set of stairs.

Willow finally spoke when she saw the quizzical look on Tara’s face, “My parents refurbished the attic and made it into a bedroom, because there weren’t enough rooms for all of us. It was Grayson’s room first and then when he left for college, I got it.”

Tara nodded and shot Willow a seductive lopsided grin, “Cool, lot’s of privacy.”

Instinctively Willow knew that Tara was just trying to snap her out of her sullen mood, but she couldn’t seem to shake it off. “Yeah,” she said as she turned to ascend the stairs, but was gently pulled back.

Tara turned Willow around to face her, but apparently the redhead’s shoes were a little more interesting. Tara held Willow’s hand and slid her fingers through the red hair with her free hand.

“Look at me sweetie.”

Willow slowly raised her head to meet Tara’s eyes, the hurt evident on Willow’s sad face, “I’m sorry she treated you that way.” Willow offered.

“Will, you have nothing to apologize for, you’re not responsible for her actions. Besides, what’s our motto?” Tara raised her eyebrows with a questioning stare.

Willow sighed deeply, “They can’t hurt us if we don’t let them,” she said, echoing Tara’s words from a few weeks prior.

“That’s right and we’re gonna do our best to stick to that, right?”

“But Tar-” Willow began to protest, but was cut off by Tara’s soft velvety lips on hers. Willow melted into the blonde, wrapping her arms around Tara’s neck and allowing the kiss to deepen. Willow ran her tongue along Tara’s bottom lip, before gently pushing inside. They kissed passionately, yet gently for several minutes; every touch of their lips conveying endless love and devotion.

Finally pulling apart, they rested their foreheads together, Willow slowly raising her eyes to meet Tara’s, “Every time I…even when I’m at my worst…you always make me feel special. How do you do that?” Willow asked.

“Magic,” Tara responded, kissing Willow again and pulling her into a warm embrace.

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

The atmosphere surrounding the dinner table was slightly tense, mostly due to Sheila’s refusal to acknowledge Tara’s existence. Willow thought that maybe she should be angry with her mother or visibly pout, but she was just too tired to do either. Besides, she was happy to be home and ecstatic to have lots of Tara time. Besides, Willow knew that, at some point Sheila would be forced to engage in conversation with Tara and until then, she decided that Tara was right and it wasn’t worth all the worry. She could no more control how her mother acted than she could control a hurricane and she didn’t want to spend all of her vacation time stressed out about it.

The little bit of alone time she had shared with Tara had done wonders to strengthen Willow’s resolve. It was as if Tara really did possess some sort of supernatural power and every time they touched, it magically infused her. Kissing Tara and feeling her close, was all Willow needed to shut out her annoying mother and live to fight another day.

“So Willster, what’s on your agenda for tomorrow?” Hunter asked.

“Well, I was planning on taking Tara riding and then may-” Before Willow could finish, she was rudely interrupted.

“Well, I hope you don’t plan on ignoring your family all week.” Sheila spat, indignantly.

Willow stiffened, her face turned bright red from her neck all the way to the tips of her ears. She opened her mouth slightly to speak when she felt Tara’s hand rubbing her upper thigh under the table. She reached down, entwined her fingers with her girlfriend’s and calmed immediately.

“Anyway, Tara’s never been riding, so I thought it would be fun. Dad, what time is everyone coming for dinner tomorrow?” Willow asked, deliberately bypassing her mother and directing the question to her father.

“Around 4pm, we’re going to cook out and I though all ya’ll might like to have a bonfire tomorrow night.”

“Sounds like fun Dad. Who’s coming?”

“Let’s see, all of you, of course. Then I believe Aunt Chula, Uncle Haskell, and your cousins.”

“Oh cool, I haven’t see Abby and Ella in forever!” Willow’s demeanor brightened when her Dad mentioned her twin cousins. The redhead turned in her chair towards Tara, “Abby and Ella are my identical twin cousins and they’re adorable! I used to baby sit them all the time. Great kids!”

“How old are they?” Tara asked.

“I think they’re…14? Is that right Dad?”

“Yep, and you won’t believe how grown up they are since the last time you saw them.”

“So Daddy-O, what’s on the menu tomorrow?” Hunter asked.

As the others at the table discussed the menu plans, Tara leaned in and whispered to Willow, “All ya’ll?” A look of confusion crossed her face.

Willow chuckled at her girlfriend’s confusion, “Umm hmm, it’s plural for ya’ll,” She said, whispering as well.

Tara confusion gave way to amusement, “I guess I need to get caught up on Texas talk.”

“I suppose it can get confusing, but don’t be afraid to ask me. I’ll be your personal interpreter!” Willow smiled proudly. Tara returned the gesture, then instinctively leaned in and bumped shoulders with her girl.

Apparently, this minor show of affection did not sit well with Sheila as she cleared her throat loudly and shot a punishing glare in Willow’s direction. Not one to be out done, Willow defiantly sat up straighter, pulling Tara’s hand to her mouth and kissing the back of it…several times. Game on mother, game on.

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

As dinner wound down, Rachael started to clear the dishes and motioned for Willow to help her. Tara offered her assistance, but Willow wouldn’t allow it, and encouraged her to stay. Since Sheila had excused herself to take a phone call, the mood had lightened considerably, and Tara had been happily chatting with Hunter and Ira. They continued their conversation as Willow and Rachael took the first load of dishes to the kitchen.

“Willow Danielle Rosenberg!” Rachael hissed, “I can’t believe that you didn’t tell me you were dating ‘Tara Maclay!’ What the hell?! How long? How did you meet? Is it serious? Why didn’t you tell me? Brad Pitt?” She finished with a squeak.

Willow chuckled as she was assaulted with the barrage of questions, “Well, first of all, I didn’t tell you because this is much more fun!” She grinned.

“You’re such a brat!” Rachael said, playfully slapping Willow’s arm, “So come on…I want details.”

“Anyway, to answer your questions…we’ve been seeing each other about a month, I rescued her lost dog, yes, it’s complicated and he’s a doll…you’d love him.”

“Willow…” Rachael chided.

“Rach, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. It’s just that, well, we just needed some time to see where things were going before we came out to the world.”

Rachael stopped what she was doing and put a soothing hand on Willow’s arm, “Will, I’m not the world. I’m your big sister and I’m here for you. It’s my job, remember?”

Willow nodded, “I know, it’s just-”

“Did you think I’d react like Mom?”

“No! Not at all, it’s…look this is huge for me.”

“Well, no kidding, I mean Tara Maclay-”

“No Rach,” The redhead locked eyes with her sister, “It has nothing to do with who she is, but what she means to me.”

Rachael smiled at the pure love and affection she saw reflected in her baby sister’s bright green eyes. She reached out and cupped Willow’s cheek, “My Boo’s all grown up and she’s in love.”

“I am and she loves me too. It-it wasn’t something I was looking for, but it’s powerful and it’s totally different from anything I’ve ever felt for anyone before.”

Rachael smiled and ran her hand through Willow’s hair, “I get it.”

“I know you do,” Willow frowned, “I kinda feel like my head’s gonna explode. There’s been so much drama with the press and coming out a-and now with Mom. She’s-”

Rachael interrupted and completed Willow’s sentence, “-up to something?”

“Yeah, you noticed?”

“Of course, but I can’t get anything out of her,” Rachael sighed, “I tried Will, but she won’t…her denial runs deep. You think Tara can…?”

“She says she can handle her but, but what if she just says, ‘F it, so not worth the bs?’”

“Then she never really loved you in the first place, but I don’t think she would have come if she didn’t, I bet she surprises you.” Rachael put an arm around her sister, “Come on, let’s get back in there before Dad starts telling the really embarrassing stories…now that might send her running!”

Willow giggled and placed an arm around her sister’s waist, “I love you sis.”

“I love you too, Boo.”

[vazy]

DIBS! Revising appears to have me on a dibs roll, probably because I just sit looking at my email...

Anywhoo, after re-reading the chapter several times and squee-ing in delight here goes. I love Will, Rachael and Hunter! They are just so cute and sibling-y all together. Its really nice to see how Willow would act with brothers and sisters since she doesn't have any in the show when she really needs people to give all that love she's got to. Ira was sweet too, and very punny. Sheila however. Grr Argh! That women, so annoying. Love the awkward dinner and all o' it. Oh and Rach's nickname for Willow, really cute. Brilliant as always and cannot wait for more!

[jazhers]

Hello !!!!!

Great Update!! I loved the warmth between Willow and her family in this story. I'm so glad she has that . The Tara pick-me-ups, after the encounter of the disapproving mother kind, were sweet. I guess it can't all be gravy tho I kinda like that Shelia is being difficult that gives Tara the opportunity to win her over hopefully. I'm thinking she sees the depth of love she will come around when she realizes how happy Tara makes her daughter. On the flip side maybe Willow will realize she doesn't need her mothers approval and comes to accept that she will never approve. Either way makes for a nice contrast. Thanks so much and keep writing !!!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I'm glad that the folks approved Tara (well most of them)... I'm still very worried about what Sheila is going to do to break up Willow & Tara...

[Laragh]

You don’t like horses??

Okay, I'll be more clear, I don't like any animals. I don't like things that move. They weird me out. I'm also allergic.

---

I am so nervous for Tara right now. Meeting the parentals who you know one of which already disapproves? Ay yi yi.

Now I feel bad for Willow too! Awkward embraces are...awkward. As are awkward mother/daughter relationships.

“They can’t hurt us if we don’t let them,”

Word. I say a paraphrased version of that to my friends all the time.

Finally pulling apart, they rested their foreheads together, Willow slowly raising her eyes to meet Tara’s, “Every time I…even when I’m at my worst…you always make me feel special. How do you do that?” Willow asked.

“Magic,” Tara responded, kissing Willow again and pulling her into a warm embrace.

I love the switcheroos you're pulling in this fic!

“Umm hmm, it’s plural for ya’ll

And here's me thinking 'ya'll' was already the plural

Game on mother, game on.

*sits back with popcorn and cheers for Willow*

I love Willow's relationship with Rachel It's awesome. I always wanted a big sister. I'm worried about what Sheila's up to though. I'm envisioning her trying to set Willow up with a guy in front of Tara and Willow going bat-shit crazy and Tara wanting to defend their relationship but being all nervous and...gah, now I'm nervous!!!

[Silent_X]

Take a guess what restaurant Willow is talking about!!

Oh, gaah, now I feel like I'm on the spot. Err, Gringo's? I'm usually a bad guesser.

Anywho, I liked the family interactions in this chapter. They seem like a pretty natural big family, except for the rather rude Sheila. I sure do hope she comes around. Hunter sort of reminds me of my own brother.

“Magic,” Tara responded

I liked this a lot, as it continued with the whole reversal thing you've got going on in this fic. I enjoy the way Will and Tara interact in this fic- it's very natural and very sweet.

Can't wait 'till next Sunday!

[wayland]

Ouch. You wrote Sheila so convincingly I actually winced.

Also, the way the others tried to cover up her rudeness but did not call her on it. Very realistic. In those circumstances it would have made an awkward situation even worse, but I get the sense that no one confronts Sheila. I imagine her total denial if anyone tried.

And the way the passive aggressive dominates the room. Very well observed.

I liked that Tara’s strength of character comes through, especially as she is away from her own surroundings, in a situation where her star-status is irrelevant. She stutters talking to Ira, but with Sheila her speech is clear. It’s often easier to be brave for others than for oneself.

I was glad that Sheila was not impressed with Tara’s fame. It fits with what I imagine to be her self-righteous thinking.

In two chapters you’ve shown so many aspects of family dynamics, and I recognise them all.

[nightmask]

aww I love that Willow at least has a good relationship with her father, Willow's mother is so mean to Tara grrr :/

I hope that Tara can show Willow's mom that she's right for Willow and so much better than a "nice jewish boy".
I feel so bad that Willow's relationship is like that with her mother and that just being in the same room with her is uncomfortable.
I know how it feels, it's like whatever you do they're always disappointed in you and they don't even have to say anything you can just read it in their body language :/

Willow's siblings seem so supportive to her so it kind of makes up for the tension between her and her mother.
I can't wait to read the part with Willow taking Tara riding!!!

[Promthea128]

Okay, I loved the previous chapter. Funny, cute, fun, sweet. The horse riding scene was particuarly great.

This chapter was great too, more sweetness and family fun added with drama. I'm curious what Shelia's plan is, but not worried. Like Rachel said, if Tara decides it isn't worth staying, she never loved Willow in the first place. And that's just not possible.

[love_2003]

I love the sister banter between Willow and Rachel. I'm hoping Sheila will come around before Willow and Tara leave. Loving each update more and more. Looking forward to when the rest of the family meets Tara.

[wimpy0729]

Oh wow, this is so much fun, well at least for the most part. The whole family seems warm, loving and genuine, except for one major overshadowing member. You know what, even if Sheila isn't on board with Willow's gayness, she at least could show some manners and be a little bit civil. She pretty much infuriates me right now. Our poor girls. I love how Tara is staying pretty strong under the circumstances and helping Willow stay grounded.

She could no more control how her mother acted than she could control a hurricane and she didn’t want to spend all of her vacation time stressed out about it.

Absolutely perfect attitute. Don't let Sheila ruin their time together, no sirree. If it was me, I'd just ignore the rude old bag as much as possible.

Okay, my brain has been mush lately, but I'm not remembering if Willow told Sheila exactly who she was bringing, only that she was an actress. Sheila didn't seem too shocked that it was Tara, so I'm wondering if she already knew somehow, or perhaps I just missed it.

And as for Sheila not approving of their "bumping shoulders" (how scandalous! LOL) and Willow's defiant reaction - Loved It! Game on, indeed.

I'm so excited! More soon please!!!


Wimpy

[DaddyCatALSO]

I'm thinking maybe Sheila doesn't really recognize Tara's name.

I'm also hoping she isn't completley hopeless.

[vampyregurl73]

Ahh, to leave feedback.

Last chapter:

I loved the nervousness and Rachael not believing Tara was Willow's gf, but how easy their interaction became.

Tara's lust over Willow riding bareback was entertaining too.

This chapter:

Her mother was pretty much what I expected, and why do I have a feeling she's invited some "nice young man" for Willow. It's good how the rest of her family welcomed Tara and isn't making a big deal out if the situation, while I'd like to lock her mother in a closet somewhere.

Hopefully Tara won't let anything Sheila has up her sleeve really get to her, since now she has a clue as to what she's like. She knows that Willow loves her regardless.



More please!

[beautiful_love]

Wow Sheila is a bitch! What's she up to? No good? Yeah that's the extent of my guessing. I will wait for you to tell me. I'm sure it'll be good though. You always come up with good ideas.

I really love how you're portraying the rest of Willow's family though. They all seem so down to earth and normal. So refreshing. Looking forward to seeing the rest of them and how Tara reacts to them all. I'm sure she'll be nothing but charming though.

Great update. Can't wait for more... next Sunday... come on!

[JustSkipIt]

Sheila should be ashamed of herself as a mother, a homeowner, a hostess, and a Texan. To treat a guest in your home so rudely is beyond unacceptable. Unacceptable. I feel ashamed for her. I don't care if your child brings home a tattooed high-school dropout or whatever the most unacceptable mate would be... you are polite. She's an idiot. The other thing is that what she's doing is only going to alienate Willow from her. It's not like Willow is going to think "gosh... mom would be nicer to a dude..." I think it will be interesting to see if the "what she has planned" is a nice Jewish doctor and also interesting to see if said nice Jewish Doctor is totally wowwed by Tara and totally gets that Willow and Tara are both gay. I'm also wondering if Sheila has any concept what a huge star Tara is or if the level of her stardom doesn't make any difference to her.

For Tara I think it's interesting because I'm betting that this is the first time in a long time or ever that she's been so disrespected. I mean in Hollywood everyone is either fawning over her, sucking up, playing cutthroat games all passive aggressive, or just taking money for whatever. But this is person who can't be reasoned with. She can't just tell her what to do. She can't just pay her. She can't just call Cyndie and tell Cyndie to take care of it. It's sort of a new experience for her I bet. Now it would be fascinating if when she's doing the huge round of coming out interviews she is asked the hardest part and she says ... some people's parents have hard times (read: are assholes). I mean it's not like she can interview on Ellen next week and tell the entire universe that Sheila Rosenberg is a jerk.

Ok. The rest of Willow's family seems so totally awesome. I love the closeness they share and I think that so far Tara is doing a really great job of sort of visiting that closeness and observing it without feeling excluded by the bond. I love Hunter saying "you must be Tara" like you say except.... duh! "Ira's my father's name" Is that the most common thing for men to say everywhere or just in Texas?

Ok, I've got to get ready for work. Excellent work!

[JustSkipIt]

I'm double-posting because while I was taking my shower and driving to work I started to think of the responsibility of hospitality toward guests in Judiasm. Sheila's behavior is religiously unacceptable. Here is one lengthy interpretation of the responsibility of the host to perform the mitzvah of feeding his/her guest but also to welcome and protect said guest. It is said that Abraham interrupted an actual converstation with G-d to attend to guests and that he understood that G-d had sent those guests at that moment to teach him the importance of attending to guests.

[willowtaralover]

I love that Tara is able to get such an instant rapport with the members of Willow’s family and they all take an instant liking to her. Well apart from Sheila that is.

Willow studied her mother’s face intently, desperately searching for a hint of emotion or recognition or anything, for that matter, but could find nothing. In Willow’s child-like fantasy, she imagined Sheila immediately seeing the love she shared with Tara and realizing how ridiculous she’d been. Perhaps even recognizing that she was someone who is important in the world and welcoming her into the family with open arms. Unfortunately, this was real life and Willow’s fantasy disappeared with a ’poof’ when Sheila quickly turned away from Tara, walking towards the stove and rambling about dinner.

Willow’s shoulders sagged as the air left her lungs in a long defeated sigh. She turned towards Tara and mouthed, I’m sorry. As Tara took her hand and mouthed back with an, “I love you.” Willow nodded and smiled sweetly, taking a deep breath in an attempt to strengthen her resolve. She was going to need all the strength she could muster to get through the next 8 days.

Poor Willow, I can definitely sympathise with her mother problem. I have a similar situation with one of my parents. Though I don’t think they would ever go as far as Sheila does.

I did get the idea that maybe over the thanksgiving meal itself Tara could ask a direct question to Sheila. There's no way she could avoid that without other family members complaining about her rudeness, Sheila's that is.

Finally pulling apart, they rested their foreheads together, Willow slowly raising her eyes to meet Tara’s, “Every time I…even when I’m at my worst…you always make me feel special. How do you do that?” Willow asked.“Magic,” Tara responded, kissing Willow again and pulling her into a warm embrace
AWESOME, this is my favourite ever line from Buffy between Willow and Tara from one of my favourite ever episodes of Buffy, Family, so to see it here is such a cool treat for this W/T geek.

“I know you do,” Willow frowned, “I kinda feel like my head’s gonna explode. There’s been so much drama with the press and coming out a-and now with Mom. She’s-”

Rachael interrupted and completed Willow’s sentence, “-up to something?”

Yeah, but what’s the sneaky old so and so up to????

I noticed that Sheila didn’t seem to recognise Tara. Does this mean she isn’t as aware of who Tara is as Rachael and Hunter are?

“Then she never really loved you in the first place, but I don’t think she would have come if she didn’t, I bet she surprises you.” Rachael put an arm around her sister, “Come on, let’s get back in there before Dad starts telling the really embarrassing stories…now that might send her running!”

Willow giggled and placed an arm around her sister’s waist, “I love you sis.”

“I love you too, Boo.”

I love that even though there’s at least a decade separating them, there’s a wonderful loving close bond between Willow and Rachael.

[Cyteach]

This Fic is just so f-ing GREAT! I know that's not much in terms of feedback, but those are the thoughts that run through my head everytime I read it.

I think my favorite part about this is that the humor (which you clearly have an abundance of!) is just so well done. This is freaking' hilarious on so many levels, which is definitely NOT an easy feat to accomplish and can often fall flat when attempted in writing... But, you're a star! I was reading these last two parts in bed, you know a little reading before bed time, and I was snorting and hollering with laughter--which, let me tell you, isn't appreciated by a bed partner at like 2 am on a work night!

Love, love, love it! And can't wait for more!

C.

[Ariel]

Shelby!

More goodies, even great cooking!

The girls entered the house through the backdoor and into the kitchen; Tara’s heart was pounding as her death grip on Willow’s hand tightened. She tried her best to clam herself, but her nerves were definitely getting the best of her. Get it together Tara! You’ve stood on a stage and addressed millions of people. You can meet two people without collapsing, for Gods sake! They’re just people, just two regular people. Half of which would probably like to see you drawn and quartered. Ok…maybe not so regular.

Showing Tara’s fear was endearing and effective: so clearly shows how much Willow means to her. Then her inner monologue was . .

Also found the description of the cooking mouthwatering and touching, “this is what a real family . . “ and the sense of Tara never having had that.

Also enjoyed the fun of meeting Willow’s siblings. Ira is such a sweetie BUT he needs to dump his wife immediately and sign up for parents-without-partners for a newer model! Sheila is a BITCH!!!! Please, Great One, let mighty vengeance reign down upon her evil-ness!

This section summed up a lot of what I loved in this post:

The little bit of alone time she had shared with Tara had done wonders to strengthen Willow’s resolve. It was as if Tara really did possess some sort of supernatural power and every time they touched, it magically infused her. Kissing Tara and feeling her close, was all Willow needed to shut out her annoying mother and live to fight another day.

“So Willster, what’s on your agenda for tomorrow?” Hunter asked.

“Well, I was planning on taking Tara riding and then may-” Before Willow could finish, she was rudely interrupted.

“Well, I hope you don’t plan on ignoring your family all week.” Sheila spat, indignantly.

Willow stiffened, her face turned bright red from her neck all the way to the tips of her ears. She opened her mouth slightly to speak when she felt Tara’s hand rubbing her upper thigh under the table. She reached down, entwined her fingers with her girlfriend’s and calmed immediately.

Their love and healing together. Sheila’s prime nastiness since I’m praying for a vengeance that equals it! (see note above) And the great capture of Willow’s agitation and, again, their closeness and tenderness.

Lovely, lovely!

More Please!

Ariel
How I Met Your Mother

[JustSkipIt]

I was thinking yesterday that you should have posted early in case the world ended.

[Finey_McFine]

Well, I was kinda hoping that it would end...since my update isn't ready yet.

[Finey_McFine]

vazy:
YAY DIBS!!

Its really nice to see how Willow would act with brothers and sisters since she doesn't have any in the show when she really needs people to give all that love she's got to.

I always kinda felt like Willow, Buffy, and Xander longed for siblings. I thins that’s what brought them together and kept them together. Then when Dawn came along…they all finally got a younger sister. I love the idea of Willow as the youngest. She always just seemed like the sweet younger sister.

Ira is most definitely the cool Dad and Sheila the high-strung mother keeping it all together. Yes, she is annoying, but oh so much fun to write!


Thanks for the feedback!



jazhers

I loved the warmth between Willow and her family in this story.

Yeah, sometimes I get tired of all the Willow aloneness. It’s the main reason I gave her the fam. I always felt like she would have been completely different had she had siblings.

Coincidentally, we have to drive into Houston to pick up my mother from the airport this evening.

IAH??

I guess it can't all be gravy tho I kinda like that Shelia is being difficult that gives Tara the opportunity to win her over hopefully.

There’s always gotta be someone to throw the monkey wrench in it! Life is just like that!

On the flip side maybe Willow will realize she doesn't need her mothers approval

You are the first person to say this and it’s going to be very important in future chapters!!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


zampsa19752001:

I'm glad that the folks approved Tara (well most of them)... I'm still very worried about what Sheila is going to do to break up Willow & Tara...

She most definitely has something up her sleeve. Let’s just hope it doesn’t drive a wedge between our girls!!!

Thanks for the feedback!


Laragh:

Okay, I'll be more clear, I don't like any animals. I don't like things that move. They weird me out.

So what are you saying? You don’t want me to send you a snake friend from my pond?

I am so nervous for Tara right now. Meeting the parentals who you know one of which already disapproves?

It is most definitely going to be a rough go. Sheila has plans and let’s just hope W/T can out wit her!

I love the switcheroos you're pulling in this fic!

Thanks! It’s been fun slipping them in.

And here's me thinking 'ya'll' was already the plural

LOL…I catch myself saying it all the time! More Texas-isms to come!

*sits back with popcorn and cheers for Willow*

Our little Willow…ever the competitive athlete!

I love Willow's relationship with Rachel, It's awesome.

When I first sat down and started outlining the family, I almost made Rachael the disapproving older sister, but then I figured it’s be much nicer if they got along.

I'm worried about what Sheila's up to though.

She is most definitely up to something…

Thanks for the feedback!


silent_x:

Oh, gaah, now I feel like I'm on the spot. Err, Gringo's? I'm usually a bad guesser.

LOL…sorry I didn’t mean to put you on the spot!! Not Gringo’s…I’m actually not that big of a fan, although they have a really good seafood enchilada!

They seem like a pretty natural big family

I’m so glad it rings true! I’m the oldest of 5 so I kinda have insight on the inner workings of a large brood.

I liked this a lot, as it continued with the whole reversal thing you've got going on in this fic.

Thanks…I love slipping them in where ever I can, in different scenarios, etc. s


Thanks for the feedback!


wayland:

Ouch. You wrote Sheila so convincingly I actually winced.

Thanks!!!

Also, the way the others tried to cover up her rudeness but did not call her on it. Very realistic.

They all seem to be a bit afraid to say a word. I get the feeling that Sheila was a force to be reckoned with when they were little. With 5 kids, I bet she put up with very little. Also, when you become an adult and are thrown into that type of situation…you tend to revert back to your childhood, which means minding your parents. If that makes sense, lol.

And the way the passive aggressive dominates the room. Very well observed.

Sheila is the QUEEN of the passive aggressive behavior and it’s only going to get worse, lol.

I liked that Tara’s strength of character comes through, especially as she is away from her own surroundings, in a situation where her star-status is irrelevant.

Especially irrelevant with Sheila. She already looks down on her because she’s an ‘actress,’ making it all the more difficult for Tara to deal with.

I was glad that Sheila was not impressed with Tara’s fame. It fits with what I imagine to be her self-righteous thinking.

Yep, you’ve got that right!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


nightmask:

aww I love that Willow at least has a good relationship with her father

Me too! She is most definitely a Daddy’s girl.

I hope that Tara can show Willow's mom that she's right for Willow and so much better than a "nice jewish boy".

It’s gonna take a miracle…I think.

I feel so bad that Willow's relationship is like that with her mother and that just being in the same room with her is uncomfortable.

We’ll get some more insight into that relationship coming up!!.

The siblings are VERY supportive…just as they should be! Horseback riding coming up!!

Thanks for the feedback!


Promthea128:

Like Rachel said, if Tara decides it isn't worth staying, she never loved Willow in the first place. And that's just not possible.

Never have truer words been spoken. Tara not loving Willow = end of days.


Thanks for the feedback!


love_2003:

I love the sister banter between Willow and Rachel. I'm hoping Sheila will come around before Willow and Tara leave.

Sister banter is fun and fun to write! I’m sure there will be more antics when all the boys are together as well. As for Sheila, I don’t know. We’ll have to see how things go.


Thanks for the feedback!!



wimpy0729:

You know what, even if Sheila isn't on board with Willow's gayness, she at least could show some manners and be a little bit civil.

One would think that she would, what with her southern upbringing, but that would mean that she’s not getting her way. Who knows what she has up her sleeve!

If it was me, I'd just ignore the rude old bag as much as possible.

That’s probably what’s going to happen, which I’m sure will piss her off even more!

I'm not remembering if Willow told Sheila exactly who she was bringing, only that she was an actress.

She told her that her girlfriend was an actress, but never had the chance to say who she was. Sheila didn’t seem to care, so Willow told her to, “talk to Dad,” who knew all the details. So, we’re gonna assume that they talked and she knew, but is just being a bitch anyway.

And as for Sheila not approving of their "bumping shoulders" (how scandalous! LOL) and Willow's defiant reaction - Loved It! Game on, indeed.

I think Sheila made a huge mistake here. W/T probably would have respectful in the way of PDA’s, (you know how awkward it can be around someone’s parents anyway) but now…the gloves are off.


Thanks for the feedback!


DaddyCatAlso:

I'm thinking maybe Sheila doesn't really recognize Tara's name.
I'm also hoping she isn't completley hopeless.

When last Sheila and Willow talked on the phone, Willow got pissed and told her to “go talk to Dad,” so, we’re gonna assume that she knew in advance and just doesn’t care. But who really know what she’s thinking?


Thanks for the feedback!!!



vampyregurl:

Her mother was pretty much what I expected, and why do I have a feeling she's invited some "nice young man" for Willow.

You and Laragh with the speculation…lol I can neither confirm nor deny.

It's good how the rest of her family welcomed Tara and isn't making a big deal out if the situation, while I'd like to lock her mother in a closet somewhere.

How ironic would it be for Sheila to be locked in the closet?

I think it may get a little tough for Tara, especially since she is used to people fawning over her. Not that she ever expects it, it just happens and she is most definitely not used to having to work for it. I believe that Sheila will prove to be a worthy opponent!


Thanks for the feedback!!!!


beautiful_love:

Wow Sheila is a bitch! What's she up to? No good?

Let’s just hope that she doesn’t tie them to a stake and try to burn them alive!

I’m sure the rest of the immediate family will love her, especially since they’re all about the same age. It’s going to be an eye opening 8 days for Tara, that’s for sure, lol!

Thanks for the feedback!


JustSkipIt:

Sheila should be ashamed of herself as a mother, a homeowner, a hostess, and a Texan.

ESPECIALLY as a Texan!!

I don't care if your child brings home a tattooed high-school dropout or whatever the most unacceptable mate would be... you are polite.

Maybe she’ll snap out of it??

The other thing is that what she's doing is only going to alienate Willow from her. It's not like Willow is going to think "gosh... mom would be nicer to a dude..."

I think it’s all a control issue with Sheila. She can’t control what choices Willow makes and it pisses her off. Acting more like a petulant child is probably more accurate.

I think it will be interesting to see if the "what she has planned" is a nice Jewish doctor

I can neither confirm nor deny, lol.

For Tara I think it's interesting because I'm betting that this is the first time in a long time or ever that she's been so disrespected. I mean in Hollywood everyone is either fawning over her, sucking up, playing cutthroat games all passive aggressive, or just taking money for whatever.

Bingo! It’s going to be rough on her psyche. Tara’s not pretentious, but she is most definitely not used to this type of treatment.

some people's parents have hard times (read: are assholes).

Hahaha…so true.

Thanks for the info in your second post. That will definitely come in handy in future chapters for, what I’m sure will be a HUGE blow up, between mother and daughter.

BTW…I totally got what you meant:)


Thanks for the feedback!


willowtaralover:
Howdy Rick!

I love that Tara is able to get such an instant rapport with the members of Willow’s family and they all take an instant liking to her.

I kinda felt like, Willow is close to her sibs, she’s close to Tara…it’s a natural attraction:) Plus, being a mega star doesn’t hut either.

Poor Willow, I can definitely sympathise with her mother problem. I have a similar situation with one of my parents.

Ditto…on both!

There's no way she could avoid that without other family members complaining about her rudeness, Sheila's that is.

I have a feeling that Sheila is gonna get more backlash than she ever imagined if she keeps this up.

AWESOME, this is my favourite ever line from Buffy between Willow and Tara from one of my favourite ever episodes of Buffy, Family, so to see it here is such a cool treat for this W/T geek.

I agree!! I love that episode and it ranks #1 on my W/T favorite episode list. I’ve probably watched it a dozen times…is my geek showing?? Lol I have 3 lists: -Favorite Buffy: Hush
-Favorite Willow: Dopplegangland
-Favorite W/T: Family

Yeah, but what’s the sneaky old so and so up to????

noticed that Sheila didn’t seem to recognise Tara. Does this mean she isn’t as aware of who Tara is as Rachael and Hunter are?

I’m pretty sure she knows, but just doesn’t care or doesn’t realize just how big of a star she really is. Remember, Willow told her Dad everything and then told her Mom, “Go talk to Dad.” So, we’re gonna assume she knows.

I love that even though there’s at least a decade separating them, there’s a wonderful loving close bond between Willow and Rachael.

Yeah, I was gonna make her the disapproving older sis, siding with Mom, but that is just entirely too angsty and this is more fun to write!

Thanks for the feedback!

Cyteach:

This Fic is just so f-ing GREAT! I know that's not much in terms of feedback, but those are the thoughts that run through my head everytime I read it.

That just maybe the best feedback ever!

This is freaking' hilarious on so many levels, which is definitely NOT an easy feat to accomplish and can often fall flat when attempted in writing... But, you're a star!

Thank You!! My wife will tell you it’s because I never matured much past the age of 15, lol.

The deal with the laughing in bed…been there and have gotten into much trouble for it as well!!!

Thanks as always for the feedback!!


Ariel:

Showing Tara’s fear was endearing and effective: so clearly shows how much Willow means to her.

Ahhh, the things you do for love. Great now that damn song is gonna be stuck in my head all day! Lol

Also found the description of the cooking mouthwatering and touching, “this is what a real family . . “ and the sense of Tara never having had that.

Kinda makes you feel sad for Tara, but I think that with Willow…she’s finally found that.

Also enjoyed the fun of meeting Willow’s siblings

Two down and two to go!

Ira is such a sweetie BUT he needs to dump his wife immediately and sign up for parents-without-partners for a newer model! Sheila is a BITCH!!!! Please, Great One, let mighty vengeance reign down upon her evil-ness!

Aw, now let’s not be TOO hard on Sheila…after all, she did raise a pretty great kid. She can’t be all that bad, can she?????????????

Thanks for the feedback!!

NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: R (Language)

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! Welcome to my post-apocalyptic update! I hope all ya’ll faired well. The world is still intact here, although, I did find myself floating yesterday…but then I realized that it was probably just the absinth. * Clears throat * Anyway…enjoy!

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

Chapter 34: Levels of Comfort

Tara awoke with a start. She couldn’t remember her dream or if she was even dreaming. All she knew was that she wasn’t rested and that it was the first time since sleeping with Willow that she was not actually sleeping peacefully. She sighed deeply and attempted to lie still and go back to sleep, however, her full bladder would not allow it, and Willow’s arm draped across her stomach, was not helping matters. She began the arduous task of slipping out from under the sleeping redhead, while trying not to wake her. After several painstaking minutes, Tara finally emerged…victorious. She stood and began shuffling across the room towards the door and being unfamiliar with her surroundings, inadvertently kicked the leg of a chair.

“Shit!” She hissed, a little louder than she intended, hopping on one foot.

Unfortunately, all of Tara’s hard work went by the wayside when her girlfriend awoke, “Tara? Are you ok baby?” Willow asked sleepily as she sat up in bed.

“Yeah, I’m fine, just stubbed my toe. Go back to sleep sweetie.”

“But, why are you up walking around at 2 in the morning?”

“I couldn’t sleep and now I have to pee. I’ll be right back. Seriously, go back to sleep, I’m fine.”

Willow mumbled incoherently and settled back into the bed. Tara felt guilty, as there was no reason for Willow to suffer because she couldn’t sleep. She returned a few minutes later hoping to find Willow fast asleep, but instead found her lying awake, staring at the ceiling. Tara slid in next to Willow and gave her a kiss on the cheek as Willow rolled to face her.

Willow’s brow furrowed, “You feel uncomfortable, don’t you?”

“A little I-” Tara tried to answer but was cut off mid sentence.

“I knew it, I’m so sorry baby. The last thing I wanted was for you to feel uncomfortable. Maybe we shouldn’t have come, I mean we can leave if you want and you don’t have to feel bad or anything. Maybe we could go and stay at Rachael’s or something? Or, or maybe we could check into a nice hotel and just come back for Thanksgiving? I don’t know why my mother is doing this and I really feel like it’s just going to get worse and, and…why are you looking at me like that?”

Tara was smiling with a raised eyebrow, “Because you didn’t let me finish my sentence, Love.”

“Oh, sorry. Go ahead,” Willow replied sheepishly.

“It’s ok Will,” Tara said as she slid her arm across Willow’s hips and pulled her close, “I was going to say, that I’m uncomfortable in these pj’s. They keep bunching up underneath me. I guess I’ve gotten spoiled sleeping with you au’ natural.”

Willow snorted, “I guess I should just let you finish a sentence before jumping to conclusions, huh? It’s just, I figured with my mom acting the way she is and all, that you were, you know…”

“Shhh,” Tara whispered, “I’m fine. As long as I have you, I’m fine.”

Willow smiled, her face growing hot and the familiar butterflies taking flight through her tummy. How on earth can my mother not see how wonderful this woman is. She leaned in and captured Tara’s lips in a deep and sensual kiss; pressing their bodies close.

Willow pulled back and sat up, “C’mere,” she whispered as she pulled Tara up with her. “Let me help you get more comfortable.”

Tara smiled and held her arms up as Willow divested her of the cumbersome pajama top; tossing it aside. She gently pushed Tara onto her back and began to pull her bottoms off. The redhead then rid herself of her pajamas as well, tossing all of the unwanted bedclothes into a heap on the floor. Willow pulled the comforter up and then invited Tara to snuggle into her warm, naked body.

“Better?,” the redhead whispered.

“Um hmm, much,” Tara breathed as she wrapped her arm around Willow, pulling her close and placing several kisses on Willow’s bare chest.

“Goodnight baby, I love you.”

“Love you too, Will.”

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

Both girls slept soundly for the rest of the night, reveling in the quiet comfort of their warm embrace, until they were jarred from their peaceful slumber by the ring of Willow’s cell phone. Willow moaned as she turned and looked at the display.

“Who is it?” Tara asked, her voice rough from sleep.

Willow sighed, “The house, probably my mom. Hello?”

Willow was correct in her assumption and Tara didn’t need to ask about what was said because she could hear Sheila’s shrill voice echoing through the phone’s receiver.

“Willow, wake up and come downstairs before your breakfast gets cold.”

“Ok.” Willow replied sluggishly, hanging up before dropping back to the mattress. “I guess breakfast is ready.”

Tara corrected Willow, “Your breakfast is ready. I don’t exist, remember?”

Willow turned towards Tara, propping her head on her hand and playfully poking her girlfriend, “I don’t know, you seem pretty real to me,” she grinned, sticking her tongue out between her teeth.

Tara returned the giggle and attempted to wiggle away, “Stop, you big goof!”

Willow stopped and instead began dropping open-mouthed kisses along Tara’s exposed shoulder and running her left hand down between Tara’s breasts to her stomach.

“Mmhmm baby, please don’t start something that you can’t finish.”

“Who says that I can’t finish?” Willow replied, kissing her way up Tara’s neck.

Tara grabbed Willow’s wrist and pulled it away as it was slinking down towards it’s ultimate destination, “As much as I would love for you to continue, nonexistent me does not want to piss off your mother.”

“Oh phooey on her! I need my morning snugglies.” Willow pouted.

“I don’t think ‘snugglies’ were on your agenda,” Tara said, skeptically.

“Sure they were, in fact my tongue was gearing up to snuggle with your-”

Tara held a soft finger to Willow’s mouth, “Don’t even say it,” she chided as Willow began to seductively suck on Tara’s finger. “Willow!”

“Ok, alright…I’ll stop.” Willow conceded, grinning widely.

Tara slid off the bed and began to dress as Willow simply threw on her pajama pants and a t-shirt. Tara thought about redressing in her pj’s for a moment, but definitely did not feel thatcomfortable. Besides, there was no way she could face Sheila feeling the least bit self-conscious.

“Willow glanced across the bed at Tara, “Jeez, I feel a bit underdressed.”

“I um, sorry Will. I just don’t feel…”

“…comfortable.” Willow finished her sentence as Tara’s head dropped, “It’s ok baby, I understand. If the tables were turned, I would feel the same way.”

Willow began to undress and re-dress in real clothes. Tara opened her mouth to protest, but in truth she appreciated the gesture and the solidarity of a unified front.

“I need to wash my face,” Tara said.

“Me too, I love the privacy and having a big room, but I miss not having a bathroom a few steps away. One of the downsides to living in an attic.” Willow smiled.

“Well, at least you have indoor plumbing. When you said you lived on a farm, I thought I’d be resigned to using an outhouse.” Tara quipped.

“Smart ass,” Willow replied, reaching for Tara’s hand, “Come on, time to face the Texas inquisition.”

“Will, does you’re mom cook you a hot breakfast for you every morning?” Tara asked.

Willow turned just before reaching the door and slid her arms around Tara’s waist, “Yes, and I expect my woman to do the same! That’s why I asked you to come home with me, so you could learn how to serve me better.” Willow attempted to stifle the laugh, but failed miserably, although she did reach her goal of getting Tara to laugh and relax a bit.

Tara wrapped her arms around Willow’s neck, pulled her in and kissed her deeply. “I would, i-if you wanted me to.”

“Would what?”

“C-Cook you a hot breakfast everyday.”

“Oh baby,” Willow breathed completely taken with the shy, beautiful woman standing before her. She had been joking, but she knew that Tara was serious and her heart was overflowing with love, “I love you Tara Maclay.”

“I love you too, Willow Rosenberg.”

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

By the time they finally made it downstairs, Hunter and Ira had already begun to eat while Sheila scurried around the kitchen, putting the finishing touches on breakfast.

Ira looked up when he heard Willow and Tara enter the room, “Good morning ladies.”

“Morning Daddy!” Willow replied as she hugged her father and kissed him on the cheek, “Morning Hunt.”

“Mornin’ Will, Tara,” Hunter nodded.

“Good morning Mom.”

“Good Morning,” Sheila replied.

“Good morning everyone,” Tara said, laughing inwardly and feeling as if she were living an episode of ‘The Waltons.’ A small smile escaped her lips when she imagined them doing the good night routine as well.

Willow looked at her quizzically and Tara just shook her head, “Mrs. Rosenberg, it smells delicious. I can see where Willow gets her wonderful cooking skills.”

“Thank you dear and please call me Sheila,” the older woman smiled as she placed a plate of steaming hash browns on the table.

Hunter and Willow locked eyes immediately with matching looks of utter befuddlement. He shrugged his shoulders and then looked to his dad, who was too busy digging into his eggs to notice. Regardless of her mother’s sudden change of heart, Willow was still on the defensive, knowing deep down that something was up.

Tara was stunned as well and had almost forgotten to answer, “Th-Thank you, Sheila.”

Sheila finally finished placing the food on the table and sat down to join her family. They chatted amicably, the mood considerably lighter than the night before. Willow thought that maybe her dad had spoken to her mother, but she couldn’t be sure. Something had changed; Sheila seemed pleasant and happy, completely opposite from the previous night. She was even engaging Tara in conversation, causing Willow to wonder if her mother was suffering from some sort of multiple personality disorder.

“So Tara, Willow tells me that you’re quite the accomplished actress, such a wonderful profession.” Sheila said, causing Willow to choke on her juice and begin coughing.

Tara turned to the coughing redhead and patted her on the back, “Baby, are you ok?”

“Fine, fine…never better.” Willow sputtered.

Tara continued to rub soothing circles on Willow’s back, while turning her head to address Sheila, “Yes ma’am, s-since I was in diapers.”

“Your mother must be very proud of you.”

“Yes, she um…she was very proud. She p-passed away a few years ago…f-from breast cancer.” The tone of Tara’s voice saddened and Willow reached under the table and laid a soothing hand on her leg.

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that.” Sheila replied.

“Um, thank you.”

“And what about your father?”

“MOM! Nosey much?” Willow exclaimed. There was no way she was going to allow Sheila to give Tara the third degree.

“Willow, I’m just trying to get to know your girl-, Tara a little better. Is that such a crime?”

Willow was fuming and afraid to open her mouth for fear that she may erupt. Luckily, Tara was much calmer and seemed to be taking it all in stride. She turned to Willow and smiled sweetly before raising her head defiantly, and answering Sheila’s question straight on.

“My father left us when I was an infant, so it was just me and my mom. Her parents passed away before I was born and she was an only child; there is no other family that I know of.”

Sheila eyes seemed to soften a bit as she listened intently and learned more about Tara’s lack of family and what she went through with her mother. Willow didn’t have any idea as to what had changed in the last twelve hours, but she was thankful nonetheless; she wasn’t sure if she could have handled another awkward meal without completely losing her cool.

“So Tara, have you always lived in LA or are you a transplant?” Ira asked.

“I’m a California girl born and raised!” She said proudly, “I actually grew up in Culver City, about 15 miles southwest of Hollywood.”

“That’s quite a ways in LA traffic, do you still live there?”

“Oh, no. I actually live in The Hills about ten minutes north of Willow. You’re right about the drive from Culver City though, it’s not that far, but with traffic, it takes over an hour.”

“How long have you lived in The Hills?” Hunter asked.

“I actually bought the house about a year before my Mom died. We were in the process of renovating when she was diagnosed and it just kind of got put on the back burner. So, I finally finished the renovation and moved in about two years ago.”

Willow listened intently, this information was new to her and she now understood why Ralphie was chipped to a Culver City address. Willow had wanted to ask Tara about the chip, but it had been early in their relationship and she figured it was none of her business; apparently her family had no problem asking Tara these questions. Just like I thought…the damn Texas inquisition.

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

With breakfast finished and the kitchen suitably cleaned, Willow and Tara changed into their riding attire and headed out to the barn. They walked across the yard hand in hand while Tara nervously rambled her concerns about never having ridden a horse.

“It’s not that I haven’t ever r-ridden, it’s just that I’ve n-never ridden without someone leading the horse in a circle. Well, n-not even a horse, more like a pony a-and it was a clown leading us around. Kinda scary when you think about it, because you know nothing scarier than a clown!” Tara laughed nervously.

Willow squeezed Tara’s hand, “Baby, don’t worry. It’s not like I’m gonna put you up there, slap her ass and send you off into the woods.”

“I know a-and I trust you, it’s just that horses are s-so big and there’s no s-seat belts and…we’re using a saddle, right?” Tara questioned.

Willow stopped, turned Tara towards her and cupped her face, rubbing her cheeks with her thumbs, “Shhhh sweetie,” She cooed as she slid her fingers around to the back of Tara’s neck, pulling her forward and kissing her forehead, “I’ll be with you the entire time and if you decide that you’d rather not ride, that’s ok too. I love you Tare and I’m not ever gonna make you do anything that you don’t feel comfortable doing.”

Tara placed her hands on Willow’s outstretched arms, “I wanna ride…I do and I trust you. I just, w-when I was watching you last night…it was exhilarating and scaring me to death at the same time. I mean, you were up there with nothing to hold on to, it was dark a-and you were going so fast.”

“Oh sweetie, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you. You were really that worried about me?”

“Of course I was, you’re…you’re everything to me. Willow, If something ever happened to you…”

Willow thought about it for a minute and imagined if the situation was reversed, then she felt her heart clinch. She realized that she had acted recklessly, scaring Tara into perhaps not wanting to ride with her at all. No one had ever questioned her riding ability before, “Tare, I’ve been riding since before I could walk. It’s like breathing for me and I’m not going anywhere. But, I get what you’re saying and I promise to be more careful, ok?”

Tara simply nodded as Willow pulled her into a tight embrace, “All better?” Willow asked.

Again Tara just smiled and nodded allowing Willow to retake her hand as they covered the remaining distance to the barn.

The large red barn was equipped with at least a half dozen stalls; all empty except for the one occupied by Artemis. As they made their way to the tack room, Willow began to babble about how to properly saddle a horse. She handed Tara a large brush and talked of the importance of brushing the horse’s girth, removing any dirt or grit to preventing chaffing under the saddle. Willow grabbed a saddle bag, then walked a few steps to a mini fridge and took out a couple bottles of water; placing them in the open pockets and handed everything to Tara. She then pulled out a western saddle blanket, also handing it to Tara; the blonde struggled under the weight of the equipment. Willow walked back and forth in front of a wall full of saddles and finally pulled one of the larger saddles off one of the lower the racks. The saddle looked heavy and cumbersome, but did not seem to phase Willow as she lugged the saddle, still babbling away.

Tara followed Willow outside the barn, slightly tripping over the loose straps of the saddlebag; trying not to drop the bulky items. Willow led Tara to what looked like a staging area and motioned towards a small table where they dumped the equipment. Willow led Tara back into the barn to retrieve Artemis. The horse had become visibly excited when she saw Willow carrying the saddle and was now shaking her head and neighing loudly.

“Wow, she gets really excited to see you.”

“Yeah she does, gosh Tare…I miss her so much. I’ve had her since I was 13 and she was just 2. I taught her everything and she’s just the sweetest horse in the world. Aren’t you Arti?” Willow asked in her best baby voice; the chocolate brown mare responding with a resounding whinny.

“Stay here, ok baby?” Willow said, as she pulled the bridle off the hook next to the stall door and stepped inside. Artemis began to shake her head and stomp her foot as Willow attempted to place the bridle over her head and the bit in her mouth. “Come on Arti,” Willow whined.

Tara couldn’t hide her amusement and giggled at the stubborn mare. “Wait until you see how pissy she gets when we have to give her a bath.” Willow grunted as she struggled with the protesting horse.

Finally succeeding, she grabbed the reigns, opened the stall door and led Artemis out and over to the staging area. Willow tethered Artemis between two posts and began to explain the basics to Tara; brushing over the mare’s girth and getting her saddled up. “Ok, so some things to remember: Never walk behind a horse within 5’ or so. They can’t see you, it spooks them and they’ll kick you. Always mount on their left side; most horses are trained to that side and mounting on the right can sometimes cause them to walk away or kick. Oh and don’t ever be embarrassed to use a mounting block. It’s better for the horse’s back and yours as well.”

“Got it…don’t walk behind, mount on the left and use a block!” Tara smiled brightly.

“So, Miss Maclay are you ready?”

Tara sighed, “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

Willow made a clicking sound with her tongue, took Artemis by the reigns and led her over to the mounting block. She summoned Tara over, “Ok baby, hop up on the block, put your left foot in the stirrup and then swing your right leg over and put your foot in the other stirrup.”

Tara laughed, “I feel like I’m getting instructions for a gynecological exam,” Tara joked.

Willow snorted with laughter, “Please put your feet in the stirrups and slide down!”

“Only this time I don’t have to worry about the paper sticking to my ass.” Tara replied, sliding her foot into the stirrup, grabbing a hold of the saddle horn and tossing her right leg over with ease; firmly planting herself in the saddle.

Willow stepped up on the top of the mounting block, still laughing and imagining Tara with the crisp exam table paper stuck to her cute little ass.

“Willow, I know what your thinking and you need to wipe that image from your mind and get your ass up here before I change my mind.”

“Ay ay Captian!” Willow saluted before swinging her right leg over and mounting Artemis; slipping into the saddle behind Tara.

Tara moaned deeply and her initial nervousness melted away at the feeling of Willow’s warm body pressed firmly against her back. The redhead shifted to get comfortable allowing her breasts to graze Tara’s back. The intimacy of their current position was not lost on Willow as she rested her chin on Tara’s shoulder and reached around with both hands to take control of the reigns. She inhaled deeply, taking in the scent of Tara’s lavender shampoo and nuzzling the soft skin of the blonde’s neck. Willow placed both reigns in one hand as her now free hand snaked it’s way around Tara’s waist and under her shirt, gliding gently across the soft ivory flesh of Tara’s belly. Tara tilted her head, allowing Willow better access as the redhead left feather light kisses along the tantalizing sweet flesh that she found so irresistible.

Tara began to squirm under Willow’s touch; her arousal becoming more intense as Willow began caressing Tara’s ear with her tongue. The blonde shivered at Willow’s touch and felt her entire body begin to tingle and burn with desire. Tara finally gave in, releasing the saddle horn, she turned her head towards Willow; crushing their lips together in a heated kiss that lasted for several minutes.

Artemis had been waiting patiently, however, the lack of movement was beginning to take its toll and the mare began to shake her head, desperately trying to get the redhead’s attention. When that didn’t work, Artemis stomped her foot and bucked slightly. Both actions followed by a loud whinny. The sudden movement seemed to snap Tara out of her Willow induced haze and she audibly gasped; both hands finding their way back to the saddle horn and gripping it tightly.

“Ok, ok…easy girl,” Willow quickly took the reigns in both hands and pulled back, reminding the horse exactly who was in charge.

“Willow…” Tara squeaked nervously.

“It’s fine baby, she’s just impatient.” Willow reassured and felt Tara physically relax and lean in to her, “Are you ready?”

“To ride Artemis or to ride you?” Tara said in an extremely seductive and sexy voice.

Willow grinned widely, “Both?” She replied in her most innocent voice.

Tara laughed and turned to place a kiss on Willow’s cheek, “Let’s go before Artemis leaves without us and we end up defiling your parents barn.”

“Hhhmm, ok…to the defiling, that is…” Willow breathed, beginning her assault again on Tara’s neck.

Tara giggled as Willow sucked on her earlobe, tickling the tiny hairs on her neck. Tara raised her feet in the stirrups and gently kicked Artemis with her heels, spurring the horse into action.

“Hey!” That’s not fair!” Willow exclaimed, as the mare lunged forward with a jerk; exiting the barn and emerging into the warm Texas sun.

[ContriQ aka Paow]

Dibs

Lovely update

Horseriding can be scary, but it's awesome to ride.

Hmm..

Sheila: "Your girl-Tara.."

She almost said girfriend and then changed. Stupid stubborn Sheila.

I'm waiting for the next.. lol

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... Sheila being nice to Tara is freaking me out... I'm glad that Tara survived the Texas Inquisition... Yay for Tara's first riding "lesson" with Willow...

[Cyteach]

Wooo, post-rapture update!

I read this entire chapter with a big smile on my face--well, except for the 'Shelia' section... That was read with a slight grimace and a kinda 'I'm waiting for the train wreck and I shouldn't really watch, but I can't seem to look away' look I'm not going to be naive in thinking that 'BAM!' Sheila's had a change of heart, but I'll play along for now

I loved that little exchange in looks between Hunter and Willow over Sheila's comment--it's the, " oh, snap, Mom's finally gone over the deep end" look

I've never had the pleasure to share a horseback riding situation with a partner, but I'm thinking, after that description, I'll have to definitely but it on my list of secy dates to try

I'm really enjoying the characterization of Artemis--I don't, nor have I ever, own a horse, but I'm thinking that, like most 'pets' they have a unique personality. She's almost like an impatient little sister/child here

Another wonderful chapter! Waiting patiently for the next one!

C.

[brave-little-toaster]

This is adorable! Love it! Can't wait to see how Shiela does or doesn't turn around as a character.

[Promthea128]

Woo and hoo to you for surviving another apocolypse. When Willow was trying to get her morning "snugglies" I was worried that Shelia would come in and start screaming. But we have Nice Shelia, which is scarier than Evil Shelia. Sexy horseback riding sounds like fun.

[WR/TM]

okay I have to say that was sexy damn I so wish I had my horse now lol!!!