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

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... The 4-year olds baseball game was funny... I'm glad that the paparazzi incidentwas quickly dealt with... Big yay for Sheila warming up to a future with Tara as her daughter-in-law... I hope that with Tara's help Stella can become an accepted member of the Rosenberg clan...

[True_Love]

What a great lunch break I had today with your new post! I loved the touching moment at the end with Willow, her mom and Tara. Maybe she is starting to soften sooner than I expected. We'll have to wait and see. I have a feeling that woman still may have some tricks in her bag. Hopefully, our girls will stay strong for one another. What am I saying, of course they will.

[faolan228]

So my very anti-gay mother comes stomping into the kitchen this morning yelling, "What is wrong with this family? Your cousin Sheila's kid just came out of the closet!!!" Needless to say, I laughed my ass off, spewing yogurt everywhere.

Then later today, I find that this has been updated?

AWWW YEAH!

This chapter was full of warm fuzzies, from the snuggles, to Milo's little run. That boy sure seems to take after his Aunt Willow!

I love that Elijah's big brother ass-kicky-ness is extending to his sister's girlfriend, too. Trust me, you know you're part of the family once your girl's bros start backing you up in fights instead of jumping you in parking lots.

“Yeah, have you ever been to Chuck E. Cheese before? Or as I like to call it ‘the portal of hell.’”

D: Willow! At the most, Chuck E. Cheese is a gateway to a slightly awful purgatory of childhoods. Everybody knows that true hell lies in mini-golf courses past their prime.

Sheila's Chicken Marsala

....damn the risks, the woman can adopt me right now. Also, very glad she's at least making attempts to involve Tara. And WITH Willow, rather than separating them to different tasks.

Also, can't wait to meet the old folks in Willow's family, they sound hilarious and possibly crotchety.

Willow sighed contentedly; the love rolling off of her in waves. The sigh had caught her mother’s attention and when Willow glanced up, smiling sweetly with a dreamy expression on her face…Sheila smiled back.

OMGGG TEAAAARS! Dammit woman, stop getting me so emotionally invested with every chapter!

[beautiful_love]

Hey Shel!

Thoroughly enjoyable update. I like how big brother got all protective. Kind of defending Tara and Willow's honor. So chivalrous. And I'm starting to wonder if maybe I was wrong about Stella. Maybe she is just misunderstood and I jumped to the wrong conclusion. I don't think I jumped to the wrong conclusion about Shelia. Don't trust her. Not one little bit. She's so up to something shady and needs to be taken down a peg or twelve immediately.

Anyway, I do like the family dynamic. Even though I can see where someone may feel like an outsider initially, I can see with a little effort, being completely embraced as one if them. It's nice to see the supportive family in the story.

Looking forward to the next update. Very soon... (crosses fingers)

Jess

[MmmTaraSoSmexy13]

Awww this chapter was so cute. I love how you wrote Willow's childish side and taking Tara to Chuck E. Chesse, it truly is the "portal of hell" lol.

Willow sighed contentedly; the love rolling off of her in waves. The sigh had caught her mother’s attention and when Willow glanced up, smiling sweetly with a dreamy expression on her face…Sheila smiled back.

I wonder what Sheila is up too. I hope she will finally accept Tara and see that Willow is truly happy and in love. Don't make me wait so long for the next chapter (j/k). I will be waiting ofr more awesomness.

[love_2003]

I love that Elijah was ready to step up and defend Tara if need be. I'm hoping that Shelia is starting to see that Tara really does make Willow happy and she should start accepting their relationship. Looking forward to the grocery shopping trip.

[DaddyCatALSO]

I really want to believe Sheila is actually mellowing, I really do. Then again, Stella's comments, maybe she's just over-reacting to her own situation, but maybe she has the right of it. I have a feeling the tough stuff isn't done, even though I think the glimmers of hope are real.

Sorry, Hunter, everyday logic doesn't, for good reasons, apply when you're packaged for all the world to see. (Hmm, my fics aren't an uber, but I'm having second thoughts about the idea that Willow would just laugh off a certain flower arrangement left soemplace by my Mary Sue character....)

Chuck E. Cheese; yes, Wil, it's not for everyone.

[JustSkipIt]

Hey Shel,
Thanks for the birthday update! I thought about leaving notes here and a few other fics asking for birthday updates but this was the only one I got. It was lovely. I can't believe some idiot reporter asked if Eli was Tara's boyfriend, then asked if she was really gay. Duh. Maybe he wanted the anti-scoop or something? Dinner Thursday should be so interesting.

Well done!

[vampyregurl73]

Shel,

I've been reading along, and since I'm kinda slow on the every chapter feedback, I'll once again just talk about the things that stick out for me.

Sheila as a "momma bear", it makes me dislike her a bit less to know she takes her family so seriously.

You've even made Stella seem a bit more sympathetic.

Hunter's gf seems very sweet, and she didn't even do the celebrity gawk when she met Tara, so brownie points, there I think.

Still curious as to how Sheila is going to take the tabloid's treatment of Willow & Tara.

Just good stuff overall...

[Finey_McFine]

SMGOVAN:

Awwwwww.. now that was a sweet Shelia/Willow moment!

FINALLY!! lol

Your depiction of a sporting event involving 4 year olds was spot on.

Thanks! I’ve had a lot of fun moments watching my daughter attempt to be athletic over the years and it always a comedy of errors and injuries, lol.

Thanks for the feedback!!

ArtronSoul

Glasses! Tara in glasses! Quite possibly the hottest thing ever!

No, not quite possible…ABSOLUTELY POSITIVELY THE HOTTEST THING EVER!! Lol

Oh I love this, not just a big hint, but shows Tara is wanting to go the whole distance

Tara is definitely having thoughts about their future and dropping hints, but Willow is holding back. See next chapter…

Ya know I think Stella is just jealous, it looks like she never really tried to fit in, and wants to make Tara feel the same way.

Stella has issues, I think mostly having to do with her insane insecurity and possessiveness when it comes to Elijah. You are right though, she never really did try to fit in, but what she has done is try and fail to pull Eli away.

Willow and Sheila: It’s complicated and her little smile was just the beginning…


Thanks for the feedback!


zampsa19752001
Thanks! There’s nothing more entertaining than 4yr olds trying to successfully play organized sports! :-]

Unfortunately, it’s only the beginning with that Papprazzi…LA awaits.

Sheila still has a long way to go, but it’s a start!


Thanks for the feedback!

True_Love:

I loved the touching moment at the end with Willow, her mom and Tara. Maybe she is starting to soften sooner than I expected.

Hmmm, you never know with Sheila. But this is a start and let’s hope that she comes around sooner rather than later.


Thanks for the feedback!

faolan228

So my very anti-gay mother comes stomping into the kitchen this morning yelling, "What is wrong with this family? Your cousin Sheila's kid just came out of the closet!!!" Needless to say, I laughed my ass off, spewing yogurt everywhere.

OMG!!! HILARIOUS!!! I’m right there with the spewing…lol.

That boy sure seems to take after his Aunt Willow!

Maybe I should do a RtR: The Early Years? Would be fun to see a little Willow playing ball.

I love that Elijah's big brother ass-kicky-ness is extending to his sister's girlfriend, too.

Willow might as well be in an Italian family, with all the older brothers, lol.

Everybody knows that true hell lies in mini-golf courses past their prime.

Hahaha…so true!

....damn the risks, the woman can adopt me right now.

I know, right? My Aunt used to cook like that and I LOVED summers at their place!

OMGGG TEAAAARS! Dammit woman, stop getting me so emotionally invested with every chapter!

All part of my evil plan! Lol Glad you liked.

Thanks for the feedback!!!

beautiful_love:

I like how big brother got all protective.

I never had a big brother, I’m the oldest of 5, but I always wished that I did.

And I'm starting to wonder if maybe I was wrong about Stella.

Stella has issues and is an odd bird in general. Hopefully she can relax a little and she and Eli can make it work.

I don't think I jumped to the wrong conclusion about Shelia. Don't trust her. Not one little bit.

You are probably right about that! Lol

Anyway, I do like the family dynamic. Even though I can see where someone may feel like an outsider initially,

Breaking into any family is an arduous task. My wife is also the oldest (of four), with the youngest being 15 years younger…it’s been an interesting journey.


Thanks for the feedback!!

MmmTaraSoSmexy13:

I love how you wrote Willow's childish side and taking Tara to Chuck E. Chesse, it truly is the "portal of hell" lol.

I can attest to that personally, I worked there when I was a teenager. Kids used to puke and poo in the ball crawl ALL THE TIME! It’s one of the reasons they FINALLY took them out of most of their units.

I wonder what Sheila is up too.

Gosh, why would you think that? She’s been so nice to the girls…I think you’re jumping to conclusions,…tee he he.


Thanks for the feedback!


love_2003:

I love that Elijah was ready to step up and defend Tara if need be. I'm hoping that Shelia is starting to see that Tara really does make Willow happy and she should start accepting their relationship.

Willow most definitely has pretty awesome big brothers and hopefully Sheila is turning a corner…but we’ll see.


Thanks for the feedback!


Daddy_Cat_Also:

I have a feeling the tough stuff isn't done, even though I think the glimmers of hope are real.

It’s a long process for parents like Sheila, let’s hope she’s on the right path.

Thanks for the feedback!!!


JustSkipIt:

Thanks for the birthday update!

No problem! I hope you had an awesome day!!

I can't believe some idiot reporter asked if Eli was Tara's boyfriend, then asked if she was really gay. Duh. Maybe he wanted the anti-scoop or something?

These guys aren’t know for their brain power, just getting pics and then making up an untrue story to go with. They did the same stuff to Portia when she first came out as well. I think maybe Anne Heche sorta ruined it for everyone.

Thanks for the feedback!


vampyregurl73:

Sheila as a "momma bear", it makes me dislike her a bit less to know she takes her family so seriously.

But you still dislike her, right? lol

Hunter's gf seems very sweet, and she didn't even do the celebrity gawk when she met Tara

Yeah Molly! She’s down to earth like Hunter so it makes her cool by default. ;-]

Still curious as to how Sheila is going to take the tabloid's treatment of Willow & Tara.

We’ll have to wait and see on this…

Thanks for the feedback!

NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: NC-17

DISCLAIMER: Willow, Tara and any other BtVS characters, as well as some random dialog, belong to Mutant Enemy. ALL other original characters belong to me! This includes: Willow’s siblings and teammates, plus Tara’s friends and co-workers. Mention of any ‘real’ people in this fic is brief and pure fantasy.

SUMMARY: Totally AU! Set in LA with lots of W/T fluff and some angst, but no Hellmouthyness; just good old regular day-to-day drama. Willow is attending college on an athletic scholarship and Tara is Hollywood royalty. They meet and fall in love, of course, but will they be able to survive the pitfalls of a public romance? Well, you’ll just have to read and find out!



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

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Hi Everyone…I’d like to report a happy Sunday here, but my beloved Miami Dolphins dropped to 0-3 today AND the Texans lost as well. * sighs * Gonna be a looooooong season. Anyway, enjoy the update!

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

Chapter 46: Quiet Early Mornings


Willow was sleeping, happily entangled in Tara’s arms with her head resting on the blonde’s bare chest. Tara shifted to get comfortable causing Willow to wiggle closer. This tiny bit of movement was just enough to rouse Willow and spark her dream babble.

“It’s my turn,” the redhead whined, “Hunter, get off the swing…my turn,” Willow whined.

“Shhhh,” Tara hushed her, twisting her head and leaving a soft kiss in her hair.

“Ermmhmmm, I said get off. Rach, tell him it’s MY turn,” Willow squirmed and tossed a leg over Tara’s hip into the security of her lover.

“Will,” Tara whispered, her voice raspy with sleep, “S’ok baby, just a dream.” Tara was not fully awake, but was getting so used to soothing Willow out of her babbly dreams, that she was literally doing it in her sleep.

“Mnhmm,” Tara moaned deeply. The knee that Willow had thrown across Tara was now pressing into her center and Tara was waking quickly. She started to caress Willow’s back and gently bucked her hips into Willow’s wonderful knee.

Willow whimpered slightly, feeling Tara’s hands on her and turned her head upward; placing tiny butterfly kisses on Tara’s neck.

“Ummhmm, love Willow kisses…” Tara groaned seductively, sounding more coherent as she pulled Willow on top of her.

As Willow was edging closer to full consciousness, she found herself grinding into Tara’s leg that was now nestled into her ever-moistening center. She shifted and pressed her lips to Tara’s, sliding her hand up the blonde’s side and cupping her full breast. Willow instantly began moving her thumb across Tara’s nipple in slow, deliberate circles. She took great pleasure in the way Tara responded; how she trembled and moaned and arched her back. Willow loved knowing it was all because of her. The redhead’s eyes finally fluttered open, as she wanted to enjoy all of Tara’s reactions.

Tara couldn’t get enough of Willow, her hands running the length of Willow’s back and coming to rest on her firm ass. Tara squeezed and pulled Willow closer, roughly grinding herself against her girlfriend’s muscled thigh. Tara moaned at the sensation and passionately kissed Willow harder. She finally broke the kiss; turning her head to attack the delicate freckled skin of Willow’s neck. She sucked hard and elicited the most wonderful groan from Willow.

“I love you,” Tara said huskily, pulling away from Willow’s neck and capturing Willow’s lips in a long languid kiss.

Willow’s breathing was becoming ragged and she moaned as her girlfriend’s tongue entered her mouth. Their tongues swirling in a delicate dance as Willow flipped them over, with Tara now on top. Their breasts pressing firmly together, their legs intertwined as they instantly began to rub against each other.

After several minutes, Tara broke the kiss and began to slither down Willow’s body into a kneeling position between her legs. Tara ran her hands up Willow’s thighs; gently teasing her center with outstretched thumbs. She kept her eyes locked intensely on Willow. The girl looked incredibly sexy, lying with her arms out stretched above her head; Tara wanted to see the redhead’s every move. Willow was becoming increasingly aroused and began to squirm as the delicious tension built. Tara finally succumbed to the allure of Willow’s warm center; spreading her girlfriend’s legs, she stretched out and nestled comfortably between them. She looked up at Willow, smiling warmly before pressing her tongue through the beckoning wetness.

Tara continued to tease Willow, using her tongue to penetrate her girlfriend, then lightly flicking it across her swollen clit. “Tara!” Willow gasped, as she felt Tara work her magic. The blonde smiled as Willow’s fingers entangled her hair. She continued to flick her tongue across the stiffened nub, each time increasing the pressure. Tara pushed Willow’s legs further apart and used her thumbs to spread the folds wider as she increased the speed of her tongue.

Willow’s grip on her head tightened and her hips bucked rapidly as her entire body began to shake and convulse uncontrollably. “Oh God…Oh Tara!!” Willow shouted, pressing Tara’s head downward and groaning deeply as her world exploded and she spiraled into an abyss of pure pleasure.

Tara released a satisfied moan as she rode out Willow’s orgasm; reveling in the feeling of her girlfriend’s clit throbbing against her tongue. She was loving every minute of this; the intensity of their lovemaking; loving her sweet taste and simply loving Willow.

When Willow finally recovered, she noticed that Tara was next to her and snuggling against her. She turned and pressed a kiss to Tara’s lips, “I love you, my Tara…”

Tara smiled in response and brushed the sweaty hair from Willow’s face, “Good morning my Willow…I love you too.”

“Mmhmm, definitely a good morning,” Willow breathed, before rolling on top of Tara, suddenly very eager to show Tara exactly how much she lover her.

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

The girls spent the rest of the early morning making love to one another and drifting in and out of sleep. They were caught up in their own world, their mutual bond growing ever stronger.

They snuggled close, facing each other while Tara lazily traced a finger along Willow’s hairline, “You have the sexiest widow’s peak,” she whispered. Willow glanced at Tara and arched her eyebrows. “I’m serious,” Tara said as she continued the idle tracing, “It…it’s you; unique and one of the things I love about you.”

Willow began to blush, “What other things do you love?”

“Hmm, I love your luscious lips,” Tara said as she traced Willow’s lips. “I love your adorable freckles,” The blonde ran the pad of her index finger down the bridge of Willow’s nose. “And your eyes...” She finished as she kissed Willow gently.

Willow gazed dreamily at her lover, “I love you, Tara,” Kissing her lightly before continuing, “I love your sexy half smile and the way you bite your bottom lip when your lost in thought, and your touch...” Willow kissed Tara on the cheek, “But most of all…I love that you love me.”

Tara swallowed hard and closed her eyes, but it wasn’t in time and a lone tear dripped down her cheek. Willow smiled sweetly and wiped the tear away, gently kissing her again. Nothing else was said as they lay forehead to forehead and drifted off to sleep.

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

A couple hours later the shrill ring of Willow’s cell awakened them. Willow grunted as she slapped her hand around on the nightstand, blindly trying to locate her phone.

“Hello,” She mumbled.

“Hey it’s Hunt, sorry to wake you, but Milo is here and he wants to come up. I don’t know how much longer I can keep him down here.”

“Ermmm, give us about ten minutes, ok?”

“Sure, but hurry because I have to leave soon.”

“Where’s Eli?”

“He’s busy with Dad, Mom is already cooking, Stella is out with friends-”

“Ok, ok…got it. I guess I’m designated babysitter,” Willow grumbled.

“Technically he’s supposed to be hanging out with Mom, but you know he’d rather be with you.”

Willow sighed deeply, “I know…ten minutes,” she mumbled as she hung up the phone; placing it back on the nightstand.

“Everything ok Sweetie?” Tara asked, snuggling to Willow’s side.

Willow smiled, running her fingers through Tara’s hair, “Yeah, everything is perfect. Love you Baby.”

“Ummm, love you too.”

“Do I say that too much?” Willow asked.

Tara felt her breath catch when she saw uncertain look in Willow’s eyes, “No sweetie, you could never say it too much.”

“Good, because I like saying it.”

“And I like hearing it, almost as much as I like to say it,” Tara whispered, punctuating the last sentence with a lingering kiss, “I love you Willow…forever.”

“Forever just doesn’t seem long enough…” Willow let the words linger as she kissed Tara again. They hadn’t discussed any long-term plans for the future and this was weighing heavily on Willow. She would be graduating in seven months and what then? She decided that now wasn’t the time to bring it up, but the discussion loomed and Willow worried. “We need to get dressed, Milo is coming up in a few minutes. I guess we’re babysitting today.”

“I thought we were cooking?”

Willow chuckled at Tara’s puzzled expression, “I think we’re doing both. Welcome to the world of the youngest child. No one ever asks you, they tell you what you’re doing. Ugh, I’m exhausted.”

Tara giggled, “You didn’t seem so tired earlier.” She teased as she used her fingers to draw circles on Willow’s bare stomach.

“Ummmmm, earlier…” Willow turned in Tara’s arms grinning and kissed her soundly. “I wish we could stay like this all day. No, scratch that…I wish we could stay naked and in bed forever.”

“That is a nice thought, but I think at some point, we’d need to shower.”

“Speaking of, we kinda need to right now. Wanna take turns?”

Tara nodded, “I’ll go first?”

“Ummhmm,” Willow moaned, as Tara began to roll out of bed, “Wait…c’mere,” Willow grinned like the Cheshire Cat and pulled her back into the bed; placing her hands on Tara’s cheeks and kissing her tenderly. Breaking the kiss, Willow began to giggle.

“What?” Tara asked.

“You still smell like me. Hold on…” Willow leaned over and opened the drawer on her nightstand; pulling out a box of baby wipes, “…here, just in case.

Tara pouted and reluctantly wiped her face, “I’m gonna miss you on me.”

“I know, but you know, Milo…” Willow’s words lingering as she wiped her own face.

Tara smiled and acknowledged Willow’s concern, kissing her one last time before rolling out of bed. She found their robes and put hers on before tossing Willow’s over to her.

“Thanks Baby and just in time too,” Willow stood and wrapped her robe tight, hearing Milo’s feet thudding on the stairs. A few seconds later the little boy burst through the door and threw himself at Willow, knocking her back onto the bed.

“Woah! What’s the furry hurry?” She asked.

Milo was lying on top of Willow and giggled happily, “You’re funny Aunt Will.”

Willow laughed at his goofy expression, “And you’re a silly little boy!” She flipped him onto the bed and tickled him senseless.

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

Several hours later the girls were still busy in the kitchen with Sheila. Milo, having lost interest long ago, passed out watching TV on the living room couch and was sleeping soundly.

Tara had been slightly intimidated about spending time in the kitchen with the accomplished Rosenberg women; it most definitely was not her forte. Luckily for her she had an incredibly sweet girlfriend that always gave her easy things to do. Tara followed Willow’s directions explicitly, mostly chopping and peeling with the occasional mixing. Tara worked diligently along side Willow listening to her chat amicably with Sheila about numerous subjects, from idle town gossip to Willow’s upcoming softball season. It was the first time in 4 days that the conversation flowed comfortably and without their trademark tension. Sheila seemed more relaxed and at ease than she had been on previous days. Sheila had even caught them getting snuggly once or twice and had not reacted in the slightest. Tara couldn’t imagine what had brought on this change, but she was happy about it nonetheless.

“Willow, are you going shopping with us on Friday morning?” Sheila asked as she carefully poured the pumpkin pie mixture into a pie shell.

Willow stopped what she was doing and turned to her mother, “You are kidding right?”

“Honey, I never kid about shopping. Especially on Black Friday, after all, it is a family tradition.”

“Mom, how can you even ask me after what happened the last time I went!” The horrified look on Willow’s face made Tara giggle.

“What happened?” Tara asked curiously.

Willow turned her head towards Tara, “Your girlfriend almost lost an eye, that’s what happened.”

“Oh Willow, you’re exaggerating. You just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. I warned you to watch out for the crazies.”

Tara peered at Willow quizzically, “To my mother, shopping is an Olympic sport and she is an insane Black Friday-aholic,” Sheila was amused with Willow’s dramatic rendition, “You go ahead and laugh Mom, but you know it’s true. See Tare, every year she scours the sale ads, then outlines a shopping plan based on priority. She then draws up a layout of the store, divides it into quadrants and assigns us all a section. And when I say all, I mean Rachael and I.”

“Don’t forget Mrs. Lindenbaum,” Sheila added.

“Oh yes, your partner in crime. Anyway, a few years ago Wal-Mart had a laptop on sale for $199 and I got assigned that particular quadrant. We got to the store at 3 o’clock in the morning and split off to our assigned areas. The laptops were covered in thick black plastic wrap, in the middle of the home appliances isle on a couple of wooden pallets.”

“How did you know it was the laptops if they were covered?” Tara asked as she chopped celery.

“I had a mole inside the store that called me the night before with their exact location,” Sheila said proudly.

“See what I mean? Ok, so there were maybe a dozen people gathered around the pallet when I got there and I settled in behind them. I was bored and pulled out my phone to play a game. Well, after about an hour I looked up to find that there were easily a hundred people now hanging out and I was right in the middle of this crowd. Everything was fine, people were chatting and laughing when out of nowhere two employees show up with a pallet jack and are taking the laptops. That’s when all hell broke loose!” Willow paused for effect before continuing, “They started to take the stack and this woman, who apparently had been there, since like 9pm the night before, suddenly flung herself on top of the boxes and wouldn’t let go.”

“That sounds…intense. What happened next?” Tara was riveted.

“Well, she grabbed on and sunk her fingers into the plastic and they carted her away with the laptops. She was literally on top kicking and screaming while people tried to pull her off. It was insane and all I wanted to do was get the hell out of there, but I was stuck in the middle of this surging mob. It was horrible, like something you see on the nightly news, everyone was shouting and pushing. All I could do was move with them and that’s when it happened. As the crowd pushed forward they knocked into the appliances and the boxes went flying in all directions. I happen to look up and got hit straight in the face with a deluxe toaster oven!”

Tara began to giggle, “Seriously?”

“Yes! It’s not funny and I have the scars to prove it!” The redhead shouted indignantly.

“Oh for crying out loud, it was a tiny scratch,” Sheila added, “It barely bled.”

“Tiny scratch? I ended up with a black eye! Look Tare, right here…give me your finger,” the blonde complied as Willow took Tara’s finger and ran it under her right eye. “Right there, feel that?”

“Umm ok…yes,” Tara answered, glancing at Sheila who rolled her eyes, “I think I feel…something,” she said placating her girlfriend; because in reality, she felt and saw absolutely nothing.

“Ah ha! You see Mom…injured.”

“So what happened to the crazy lady?” Tara asked.

“Well, it was chaos after that. They wheeled her into the back with the laptops and then the next thing I know the cops were hauling her out of the store in handcuffs. Needless to say, my Black Friday shopping days were over and I don’t ever intend on going again.”

Sheila sighed, “Yes and you’ve put a serious crimp in my ability to get what I want, especially this year. Jeff won’t let Rachael go, he says he won’t risk the baby.”

“And he’s right,” Willow agreed.

“Oh phooey!” Sheila replied as the phone rang and she crossed the room to answer it.

Willow looked at Tara with pleading, puppy dog eyes, “You believe me, don’t you baby?”

“Oh sweetie, of course I do. You poor, delicate little flower,” Tara teased, kissing under Willow’s right eye.

“Oh shush you!” Willow replied and playfully swatted Tara on the butt.

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

With the majority of cooking behind them, Willow, Tara and Sheila took a much-needed break and sat down with a late lunch on the patio out by the pool so they could keep an eye on Milo. The three women had spent hours in the kitchen making everything that could be made early from the green bean casserole, to the 4 pies to the cranberry sauce, and they were worn out. For Tara, it was something of a major accomplishment and she was quite proud of herself.

When she was little, she and her mother had always gone out; then later they had their meals catered or attended lavish parties. In recent years, since her mother’s death, Tara had kept the holidays low key, spending them with friends or going on vacation. She was definitely excited about a good old-fashioned family holiday.

“I need to use the restroom. Does anyone need anything while I’m inside?” Willow asked.

Both Sheila and Tara shook their heads as Willow turned, running a hand across Tara’s shoulder as she headed for the house.

“Wow, that child is fearless,” Tara commented as she watched Milo do a flip off one of the platforms of his play set.

Sheila smiled, “He reminds me of Grayson at that age…he was a handful.”

Tara returned Sheila’s smile as they sat in a comfortable silence. “Did you always want a large family, Sheila?”

“Oh heavens no, I was a career girl; graduated from A&M at the top of my class…I had all kinds of big plans.”

Tara furrowed her brow curiously, “What did you get your degree in?”

“Business management with a minor in marketing. I got a job at United Pipeline as a marketing manager right out of college, which was unheard of for a woman in the 1970’s.” Sheila paused, her eyes staring blankly as she recalled the story of her past, “Ira and I met in college my junior year, he was a year behind me, and I got him on at UP after he graduated.”

“So, he’s still there?”

“Umm hmm, he’s a regional VP in charge of finance. We got married a year later, had Rachael and the rest as they say…is history.” Sheila leaned back in her chair, taking a long sip of her iced tea as she watched Milo play.

“So, you never went back to work?” Tara asked, realizing all at once the driven executive had chosen family over career. She wondered if Sheila really had a choice in the matter; thinking about what it used to be like for women, being forced to choose between the two.

Sheila chuckled slightly, “No, I was too busy raising all these kids,” glancing at Tara, Sheila noticed a look of sadness on her face, “I know what you’re thinking Tara, but I don’t have any regrets; raising this family, was the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Tara snapped out of her thoughts and stammered, “Oh n-no, I didn’t mean…”

“I understand, you’re a successful and driven young woman…so is Willow. She’s wanted to be a vet since she was little; it’s all she’s ever talked about.”

Tara nodded, “I understand it’s four more years of med school?” She asked, though it was more like a statement. She was really just trying to keep the conversation going, happy that she was finally communicating with the elder Rosenberg.

“Yes, four more years of-”

Sheila was cut off mid sentence as Willow returned to the table, “Four more years of what?” The redhead asked.

“…of vet school.” Sheila finished.

Willow stiffened and fidgeted nervously, deciding that the best course of action was to just change the subject altogether, “Y-yeah…r-right…vet school. Oh Mom, I almost forgot! Did you pick up my prescription? You know, the allergy meds?”

Sheila scrunched her face, “Oh shoot! I completely forgot and I think the pharmacy closes early today.”

“Oh umm, that’s ok. Tara and I can go pick it up before they close. No problem, right baby?” Willow said quickly.

Tara smiled and nodded at her girlfriend, but the sudden change in Willow’s demeanor did not go unnoticed. Willow’s reaction was odd, to say the least and Tara was perplexed as to what had caused the sudden shift; knowing that now was not the time to probe any further, she decided to drop it and not push Willow. Not that she really had a choice in the matter, since Willow had already changed the subject.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
End Chapter 46 TBC…

[AstronSoul]

DIBS!

UPDATE WOOHOO!!!!!!

Ok ~composes self~ I wish I could waste the morning in bed, especially the way the used up most of the morning hehehe.


Love how Sheila, Willow and Tara getting along, I still have a sneaky suspicion but I am hoping that is just not founded. It's nice to see them relaxed and not wondering for once. Now this Vet School thing, something is up there, and it's gonna drive me nuts till I know what it is!


Great Job!!!



AstronSoul

[Grimm]

Please, please, pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease have Willow keep the news about reconsidering Vet school to herself. Her Mom is becoming bearable. But, I fear that that tid bit of news would be enough to set off Hurricane Shelia...again!

ps. The morning yummies were um, um.....good!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... I really loved their morning yummies... I'm really glad that Sheila and Willow & Tara are getting along just fine... I truly hope that the Vet School issue doesn't ruin that progress...

[wimpy0729]

Hey Shel! So so sorry for being MIA lately. Work has been a killer, but I'm reading and loving as usual.

Milo's game totally cracked me up. I could picture the whole thing.

The morning loving *sigh*...nuff said.

It's nice to see the 3 women getting along for a change, or so it seems. Still not sure what's going on there, so guess I'll have to wait and see. Perhaps mama bear is thinking that their relationship won't make it through Willow's 4 more years of vet school or something. Again, going to have to wait and see. But Will really needs to start discussing this with Tara soon, and I'm really hoping they'll figure out how to not be separated while she finishes school. I really love how they're saying "forever" to each other now, cause I know they really mean it and will somehow make it happen. Can't wait to see what you have next in store for us.

I hope the fires out there didn't do any damage to your business, etc. Stay safe.

More soon please!

Wimpy

[beautiful_love]

So excited to see the update. And it was a great update at that.

Ah to be in love at the beginning of a relationship. When staying in bed all morning is the norm. They're cute.

It is nice to see the girls getting along with Sheila but the pessimist in me just isn't buying it. It's still nice to see though. I was hoping to see Willow get her mothers support and for Tara to get some sort of kindness shone to her, even though the rest of the family's been wonderful.

I'm definitely worried about the vet school revelation. But I'm sure you'll work it all out.

Awesome update as usual. And sorry to hear about your beloved Dolphins as I'm a fan of Chad Henne.

[Ariel]

Shelby!

It’s been a long time between a crazy ass 7 day a week workweek since mid-June and two weeks of wicked flu but yes, it’s GREAT to be back and catch up with your story!!!

I know how seriously you take responding to feedback, but this is an avalanche so if you want to just respond to the latest chapter, then I understand. *pout* Okay! I want to hear how Tara feels about acting someday. (see comment below)

The other thing I want to mention is how you’ve grown as a writer. You always wrote well, there was always warmth and humor – your story was a hit from the first chapter – but I see your exploring their lives in depth and presenting an incredibly well-rounded picture of these two people in love and it’s extraordinary. You really have something, not just the hot and the funny, but something genuine. Okay, you can blush now.

So I had some catching up to do, bear with my highlight reel:

By now, snuggling during sleep had become something of a natural habit, as if she’d been doing it her whole life. Waking up snuggled with her lover was definitely her favorite part of the day.

*sigh* And reading about it is pretty good, too. This is not just falling in love but making a life together, being together.

She had plenty of money right now, but what if it all ended tomorrow? The money wouldn’t last forever and there would be no way she could continue in the lifestyle to which she’d become accustomed. The latter didn’t really bother her too much because she knew that as long as she was with Willow, she’d be happy no matter where they ended up; but what about her professional future? What would she do if she weren’t acting? Tara barely had a high school education, zero college and no other discernable skills.

This hits home on a lot of levels: first, planning for her future and the awareness of her limited skills. But there’s something else and I’m throwing this in as someone who acts, the LOVE of acting, of being someone else; of the chemistry, energy, and instant intimacy of acting. The rush when you feel it working. That HAS to be a part of who Tara is. When I really have the audience it’s like I feel a warm wave of love coming back at me and it’s AMAZING. Other times it’s like there’s energy coming up through my feet, through my body, and out to the audience – an exchange between us. Okay, okay, probably sounds nuts but maybe Tara takes the love of an audience, a public as partly a substitute for real love in her life? Maybe she doesn’t need it as much as she thinks she does, maybe just acting in community theater would be enough with someone she loves with her. Shelby, forgive me if I’m nattering on but I admit, this inner thought of Tara’s absolutely fascinates me and I want to know what acting was to her and what it means to her now.

Tara laughed lightly; closing her computer and setting it aside, “It’s actually on my list of things to tell Willow, I just hadn’t gotten to it yet. Besides, I’m sure you’ve seen sexier things than me wearing glasses.”

“Well,” the redhead said as she traced a finger down Tara’s bare arm; looking up with hooded, sleepy eyes, “The only thing sexier would be if your boobs wore glasses.”

Tara smiled seductively; removing her glasses and placing them on one of her breasts; smiling goofily at Willow. Then in one quick move, Willow pounced on Tara and snuggled with her breasts.

“You’re right,” she exclaimed, “That was most DEFINITELY sexier …you’ve been holding out on me!” Willow buried her head in Tara’s cleavage, giving her a giant raspberry.

Love their funny times together!

Tara took the chain and noticed that her hands were shaking slightly; she was nervous. Placing jewelry on your girlfriend was a very personal and endearing act.

This endearing nervousness, then the perfect calm below.

As soon as their lips met, Tara felt her muscles relax and the nervousness dissipate. Their connection was intense and consuming; immediately shutting down and disposing of all coherent thought. There was only Willow; her lips, her hands, her sweet scent…her Willow.

Their conversation about the movie was great. Willow’s interest and support of Tara’s career in a caring, adult way is great. Their tenderness and love for each other seems to keep growing more and more as they come to know each other more deeply and let each other in more fully.

Your erotica is warm and sexy and wonderful, but I also loved them just holding each other. Powerful.

The scene with Sheila and the Fruit Loops was both interesting (glimpse of Tiny Willow) and sad. God, when will that lady grow up and give up on making her child miserable!

Willow’s eyebrows arched and she gulped audibly; knowing exactly what the blonde planned on withholding.

As Tara lowered her hands, Eli smirked at his sister, “Ha! Looks like someone’s not gettin’ any tonight.” And with that comment, he received Tara’s elbow…straight to his ribs.

LOVE the family bickering and love and Tara fitting it like this! Also love Chuck E. Cheese defined as “The Portal of Hell” and noting the transformation of kids into spewing demons. As someone who has attended birthday parties there I say, you nailed it!

“Did you borrow that bag from Hermione Granger” and “attention span of a goldfish”

Loved Hunter getting “hit with the Cluestick” about Willow watching Tara kiss guys on TV. Can I steal that one?

Willow snuggles Tara, smiles, and “SHEILA SMILES BACK”?!?! Why am I afraid? Why am I very, very afraid? (I’m not reading ahead so I’m hoping I’ll be wrong!)

Tara soothing Willow’s nightmares in her sleep. Awwwwwww.

Tara peered at Willow quizzically, “To my mother, shopping is an Olympic sport and she is an insane Black Friday-aholic,” Sheila was amused with Willow’s dramatic rendition, “You go ahead and laugh Mom, but you know it’s true. See Tare, every year she scours the sale ads, then outlines a shopping plan based on priority. She then draws up a layout of the store, divides it into quadrants and assigns us all a section. And when I say all, I mean Rachael and I.”

Okay, Sheila from your story and Anya from “Family Confidential” HAVE to get together and become the shopping commandos of the universe – hilarious stuff!!!

Also, interesting change in demeanor with the talk of vet school . . . something is up in the World of Willow and YES, I’m dying to know!!!

Ariel
How I Met Your Mother

[DaddyCatALSO]

Oh, loramussy, Sheila thinks Willow's on track to become a people doctor? Or am I misreading? As if there weren't enough issues on the table.

this business of only being able to get ehre on Saturdays is a hard change for me. Should have more feedback when I get a chance to read it all. (I paste the updates in my Hotmail, send them to myself at work, and print 'em off to read while dialing or on hold. Actually less against the rules at work than net-surfing.)

[JustSkipIt]

Hey Shel,
I'm sort of ... way behind on good fb. I like the interactions during the cooking and then the chilling out watching Milo swim. I think that Willow talked to Tara about feeling some doubt about vet school. But this seems like a new thing. Is that she's worried that everyone will think she's changing her plans because of Tara? That seems like a very strong possibility but she needs to do what makes her happy.

Well done and I'm waiting for more.

[Mgraham93]

I finally caught up on this fic. I absolutely love it.
It was a nice twist having Willow be the one who was good with horses.
Sheila's Jekkyl and Hyde routine is still worrying she seems a bit too friendly at the minute.
The family interaction is really nice- but I'm glad Tara has a fellow outsider in Molly she seems nicer than Stella about the family.
Willow's dream babbles are always really cute and the one in this chapter was no exception.
The Black Friday shopping story was funny- the nearest I've seen is shopping in the week before christmas or people buying reduced items in the supermaarket where I work, people fighting over really cheap food happens quite regularly.
All the little references were great- I love spotting them in fics, and not just Buffy ones Himym and at least one american Pie as well even more fun.
I can't wait for more, it's brilliant, and I'm glad I've finally got up to date with the updatey goodness.

I actually saw someone yesterday wearing one of Willows shirts- the Jurrassic park Clever Girl one. It really made my day

[DaddyCatALSO]

Akk, my error, shouldn't post before i read it all; I understnad Willow's feeligns here. I'm pretty sure there are good vet schools around LA - I know there aren't many nationwide- but that might not be one she gets into.

Still not really trusting Sheila myself, but wishing I could.

[True_Love]

Shel,

How did I miss this update. For some reason I thought I already read it until, well I read it. I guess that's what happens when you are working on your own story. So, sorry for the late feedback. Anyway, I love the morning lovin' it's always my favorite in fics and personally. Can't beat it. Great way to start your day.

Shiela, what do I have to say about her. Well, hmmm. I don't know. I just don't trust her yet. Maybe in time that will change but, until then I am still waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Willow and vet school. I know she voiced her concerns to Tara earlier but, I think that more and more her decision is based on how much time she wants to spend with Tara and the lack of need to earn an income. I think if Tara realizes this she is going to encourage Willow to follow her dream. One of the things I love about Willow in this fic. is her love for animals. If you take that away it kinda loses something. But, you have a master plan and I am sure it will all work out for the good.

Can't wait for the next update. I will be sure to stay on top of it this time.

[Finey_McFine]

AstronSoul:

I wish I could waste the morning in bed, especially the way the used up most of the morning

That’s why it’s called ficton, hahahaha:-]

Now this Vet School thing, something is up there, and it's gonna drive me nuts till I know what it is!

Haha…sorry, it’s going to be a few chapters for all this to play out., but I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Official President of Finey_McFine's Fan club (still under construction) - Titled President from Finey_McFine herself!! Woohoo!

Awwww, that’s so sweet…I have a fan club, woo hoo! Thank you! You are most definitely appointed official president!

Thanks for the feedback!!

SMGOVAN

Please, please, pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease have Willow keep the news about reconsidering Vet school to herself. Her Mom is becoming bearable. But, I fear that that tid bit of news would be enough to set off Hurricane Shelia...again!

Hurricane Sheila Cat 5, lol. The only promise that I can make you is that it will take several chapters to work itself out and I can say no more!

Thanks for the feedback!


zampsa19752001

I really loved their morning yummies

If only we could all be woken up like that…

I truly hope that the Vet School issue doesn't ruin that progress...

Thanks for the feedback!

wimpy0729:

It's nice to see the 3 women getting along for a change, or so it seems.

I don’t want to give too much away, but Sheila is trying…sort of, lol.

Will really needs to start discussing this with Tara soon

Yes, she certainly does. They made a promise of no more secrets and Willow seems to be keeping a big one.

I hope the fires out there didn't do any damage to your business, etc.

So far, so good! It rained a few times and the fire is finally out. Although, it’s back to hot and dry again:(

**Glad you liked Milo’s game! Little kids trying to play organized sports is always a comedic situation.


Thanks for the feedback!

beautiful_love

Ah to be in love at the beginning of a relationship. When staying in bed all morning is the norm.

Umm Hmm…I miss those days; probably why I included it in this fic…wishful thinking!

It is nice to see the girls getting along with Sheila but the pessimist in me just isn't buying it.

The calm before the storm…Hurricane Sheila Cat 5, lol.

I'm definitely worried about the vet school revelation.

Technically it’s not really a revelation; it was mentioned waaaaaaaaay back in an early chapter. But they were just getting to know each other, so it wasn’t explored. I doubt that Tara even remembers.

sorry to hear about your beloved Dolphins

0-4 = one depressed kitten:-(

Thanks for the feedback!!!

Ariel:
Hey There! Welcome back!! Glad to hear you are feeling better.

The other thing I want to mention is how you’ve grown as a writer.

Awwww, thanks! I’m currently going back and re-editing chapters for posting on another site and it’s interesting seeing how far this story has come.

I’m throwing this in as someone who acts, the LOVE of acting, of being someone else; of the chemistry, energy, and instant intimacy of acting. The rush when you feel it working. That HAS to be a part of who Tara is.

Wow, I just may have to steal this for a later chapter!

forgive me if I’m nattering on but I admit, this inner thought of Tara’s absolutely fascinates me and I want to know what acting was to her and what it means to her now.

I do have plans to touch on it in a later chapter. It will most definitely come up at some point!

Their conversation about the movie was great.

Willow’s understanding and her attitude towards fame, etc. is really part of the glue that holds them together. She has be able to really get the business and everything that goes along with it in order for them to work as a couple.

The scene with Sheila and the Fruit Loops was both interesting (glimpse of Tiny Willow) and sad.

Sheila has to be able to let go of her concept of who she wanted Willow to be and focus on accepting who she is. It’s a process.

Okay, Sheila from your story and Anya from “Family Confidential” HAVE to get together and become the shopping commandos of the universe – hilarious stuff!!!

Uh, that was totally a true story…picture me instead of Willow. It happened about 6 or 7 years ago and now I only venture out after 7am on Black Friday and sometimes not at all…PTSD!


Thanks for the feedback!!

DaddyCatAlso:

Sheila thinks Willow's on track to become a people doctor? Or am I misreading?

LOL…you misread. She knows Willow wants to be a vet.

I'm pretty sure there are good vet schools around LA - I know there aren't many nationwide- but that might not be one she gets into.

Well, the discussion is coming and will definitely be a point of contention.


Thanks for the feedback!


JustSkipIt:

I'm sort of ... way behind on good fb.

Any fb you give me is good!

I think that Willow talked to Tara about feeling some doubt about vet school. But this seems like a new thing.

They never really discussed it, but Willow did show some trepidation in earlier chapters. All will be resolved soon.

Is that she's worried that everyone will think she's changing her plans because of Tara?

That’s part of it, but there is more. Willow made a big mistake by avoiding the subject, not only with Tara but her parents as well and it’s all coming to a head.

Thanks for the feedback and good luck on the race!! Although you probably won’t see this until after.


Mgraham93:

I finally caught up on this fic. I absolutely love it.

Yay!

It was a nice twist having Willow be the one who was good with horses.

I always felt like, if they’d explored it more in canon, that Willow would have been fine with horses. She just had the initial childhood fear, but I’m sure Tara could have cured that!

I'm glad Tara has a fellow outsider in Molly she seems nicer than Stella about the family.

Yeah, Stella is a bit jaded, not to mention weird, lol.

All the little references were great- I love spotting them in fics, and not just Buffy ones Himym and at least one american Pie as well even more fun.

Thanks! I love slipping them in too!

I actually saw someone yesterday wearing one of Willows shirts- the Jurrassic park Clever Girl one. It really made my day

Was it me?? LOL

Thanks for the feedback!!!


True_Love:

For some reason I thought I already read it until, well I read it. I guess that's what happens when you are working on your own story. So, sorry for the late feedback.

No worries! That’s happened to me on more than one occasion and I’m sure it’ll happen again!

I love the morning lovin' it's always my favorite in fics and personally. Can't beat it. Great way to start your day.

Ummmm…ditto!
Sheila…probably right not to trust her just yet.

I think that more and more her decision is based on how much time she wants to spend with Tara and the lack of need to earn an income. I think if Tara realizes this she is going to encourage Willow to follow her dream.

I don’t think Willow really knows what she wants to do right now. I’m sure some of it has to do with Tara, but there are other factors involved. All will be revealed soon!

Thanks for the feedback!

NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: PG-13

DISCLAIMER: Willow, Tara and any other BtVS characters, as well as some random dialog, belong to Mutant Enemy. ALL other original characters belong to me! This includes: Willow’s siblings and teammates, plus Tara’s friends and co-workers. Mention of any ‘real’ people in this fic is brief and pure fantasy.

SUMMARY: Totally AU! Set in LA with lots of W/T fluff and some angst, but no Hellmouthyness; just good old regular day-to-day drama. Willow is attending college on an athletic scholarship and Tara is Hollywood royalty. They meet and fall in love, of course, but will they be able to survive the pitfalls of a public romance? Well, you’ll just have to read and find out!



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

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Hi Everyone and Happy Sunday! I hope you guys enjoy reading/experiencing this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it! It's kind of Racing The Rain meets Once More With Feeling:-)

The next chapter will be the big Thanksgiving chapter and it may be 2-3 weeks before I get a chance to update. Mainly because I’m really busy next few weeks and I won’t have much writing time, but you never know. Let’s hope I can squeeze some it!! Until then...

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


Chapter 47: No Sweating in the Spotlight

By the time Willow and Tara returned from picking up the prescription, Hunter had also returned with Willow’s maternal grandparents. Rachael and Jeff were there, as well as Grayson, Eli and Milo.

“H-Hey we’re back,” Willow said awkwardly to the room full of relatives.

“Oh my goodness, there she is!” Willow’s grandmother shouted, moving quickly across the room to greet her youngest granddaughter.

“Hi Nana Addy,” Willow barely got the words out before she was smothered in a grandmotherly induced hug.

Nana Adele stepped back, taking both of Willow’s hands and pulling them out from her sides, “Let me look at you; such a beautiful little willow tree.”

“It’s good to see you too Nana-” Willow was abruptly cut off as her grandmother brushed her aside; her sights firmly set on Tara.

“This must be the girlfriend I’m hearing so much about,” Adele stopped just in front of Tara looking her over with a scrutinizing twinkle in her light hazel eyes.

The woman’s eyes finally settling on Tara’s chest, “Well, I can certainly see why you choose Tara, she is definitely abundant in all the right places.”

“NANA!” Willow shouted, turning beet red with a look of complete horror on her face as she frenziedly thrust her hand in front of Tara’s chest, as if to shield her from prying eyes.

Adele looked at Willow questioningly as if what she said was the most normal thing in the world, “What? Why back in my day I was quite perky as well,” She sighed, “Now I could get a mammogram and a pedicure at the same time.”

The reaction around the room was a mixture of giggles and shock. Ira simply closed his eyes, rubbing his temple gingerly and taking a long sip of beer. Rachael’s hand was tightly clasped over her mouth and Hunter snorted with laughter.

Willow was only worried about one reaction specifically. She knew that even though Tara was used to being in the spotlight and was generally outgoing, she had a shy side when it came to social interaction. Especially where Willow’s family was concerned.

To say that Tara was embarrassed was putting it mildly, but Willow’s protective reaction was so cute that Tara instantly softened, “Hello, I’m Tara Maclay. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Yes dear, I know who you are. I watch that Laurel Grant tramp around every week blowing through men like the wind,” Adel stated dryly.

“NANA…SERIOUSLY! Tara is NOT a tramp!!”

Adele, ignoring her granddaughter completely, took Tara by the hand, “Come sit with me dear, I want to discuss some things with you,” leading her over to the couch across the room.

Willow stood rooted to the spot, with her mouth opening and closing, completely speechless. She turned when she heard her father clear his throat, but he didn’t speak. He simply held up his hand, offering his bottle of beer to his daughter; who took it gratefully and chugged the remainder.

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

“Well, that went well,” Willow exhaled and dropped into the papasan chair in the corner of her room, as she watched Tara root through her suitcase looking for clean pajamas.

“Umm hmm,” Tara said, smiling sweetly, “I particularly liked it when Grandpa Leo pulled his pants down so you could check the mole on his ass. He does know you’re studying to be a vet, right?”

“Oh God, I’ve never been so embarrassed in my entire life!” Willow sank deeper in the chair with her arms crossed and a huge pout on her face.

Tara giggled, amused at her girlfriend’s theatrics. “Well, at least you didn’t get lectured on the consequences of ‘tramping’ around with random men.”

Willow looked at Tara sympathetically, “I’m so sorry baby. She’s old and she doesn’t understand.”

“Oh, she understands just fine. I think she just likes to feign ignorance so she can get away with saying whatever she likes.”

“You’re probably right. Maybe we can just pack up and leave tonight?”

“And miss the pajama party?” Tara smirked at the frightened look on Willow’s face, “Here, put these on before she comes up here and tries to dress us.”

Willow lay in the chair, groaning, as the pj’s Tara threw to her landed in her lap. She inspected the clothing and looked at Tara with arched eyebrows, “Where did you find these?” She asked as she held the well worn Scooby Doo pajama’s up towards her girlfriend.

Tara giggled lightly, “In your dresser drawer. Pretty please?” She asked batting her eyelashes and poking out her bottom lip.

Willow locked eyes with her love and knew that she could deny her nothing. Smiling sweetly, Willow agreed and peeled herself out of the chair to get changed. She finished dressing and put her hair up in a ponytail when she felt warm arms snake around her belly and squeeze her tight.

Tara rested her chin on Willow’s shoulder; leaning in to gently kiss her neck, “You are so adorably sexy in these pajama’s, I’m going to have a hard time keeping my hands off you,” She said seductively; slipping her hands under the thin cotton top and rubbing them across the soft skin of Willow’s stomach.

Willow moaned, “Mmmmm, keep that up and we’ll never make it downstairs.” She turned in Tara’s arms, wrapping her arms around the blonde’s neck and pressing their lips together. They stayed there kissing for several minutes, before reluctantly breaking apart and heading downstairs to join the rest of the family.

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

“HA! JENGA!” The redhead shouted as Rachael pulled a block out and toppled the entire stack.

“Damn it!” Rachael exclaimed.

Willow puffed her chest out, “That’s three in a row.”

“I’m done getting my ass kicked by my baby sister, let’s sing.”

Willow gulped audibly, glancing over to Tara, who was playing a game of Spades with Nana Addy, Sheila, and Ira, while Grandpa Leo and Jeff napped and the boys played video games.

Tara caught Willow’s eye and smirked, remembering Willow’s playful singing earlier in the week and what it led to.

“Ok everyone, it’s time for Bingo Karaoke!” Rachael exclaimed.

Ira tossed his cards on the table, “It’s just as well,” he said, exhaling deeply stood and stretched, “We were getting our butts kicked anyway.”

“Willow, I just may have to take Tara back to Florida with me. She’s an excellent card partner.”

Willow smiled proudly as she placed her hands on Tara’s shoulders, “Sorry, Nana…this one’s all mine,” She said as she placed a kiss on the top of Tara’s head.

Tara smiled, squeezing one of Willow’s hands and looking up questioningly, “Honey, what’s bingo karaoke?”

Willow sighed and blew some stray hair off her forehead, “It’s a torturous game invented by my older siblings to torment those of us that are vocally impaired. Everyone throws their name in a hat, then we each pull a name out and we get to choose a song for that person to sing while my parents and grandparents act as judges. It’s a pre-Thanksgiving tradition…pajama party, games, and karaoke. Think of it as the really bad outtakes of American Idol. Oh, I almost forgot…you get extra points for your performance as well.”

“Is there a prize if you win?”

Grayson interrupted, “Yep! You get out of cleaning tomorrow after dinner and you get to choose who does what. You know, assign random jobs? You also get to choose someone to sit out with you. So much fun lounging in front of the TV watching these guys schlep in the kitchen,” Grayson said, with a self-satisfying grin plastered across his face.

“See? This is how I end up doing dishes every friggin’ year,” Willow grumbled.

“Awwww, poor wittle baby sis,” Grayson teased, “It’s not our fault the awesome voice fairy stopped at number four. Hey Tara, have you heard Will sing? Her voice can shatter glass…and not in a good way.”

Willow stiffened; taking a defensive stance as the red began creeping up her neck and into her face. She hated being teased; especially in front of Tara and especially by Grayson, who had made a sport out of it. Over the years, Grayson had occasionally used the teasing of his little sister to boost his ego and enhance his arrogant demeanor. It had lessened with age and maturity, but still spilled out every so often.

Before Willow could speak, Tara came to her defense; a tad irritated with how Grayson was trying to belittle her girlfriend, “As a matter of fact I have and there was no broken glass involved.” Smiling sweetly and repeating her earlier move by wrapping her arms around Willow from behind and kissing her on the cheek, “Besides, you already won the ultimate first prize, didn’t you baby?”

A giant grin began to spread across Willow’s face when she realized what Tara was getting at, “Hmm, I believe I did,” She replied smugly.

It had become apparent to Tara that not only was Grayson jealous, but had openly gawked at her and winked several times throughout the course of the evening. She could only hope that Willow had not seen any of it, fearing a full on fistfight. Tara wasn’t sure what Willow would do if she caught Grayson openly flirting with her.

Willow twisted and returned Tara’s kiss before untangling herself and retreating to the kitchen to refill their drinks, leaving Tara alone with Grayson.

“You know Tara, we could team up and bury the rest of these guys. Then you and I could enjoy some non-cleaning couch time tomorrow,” Grayson whispered, wriggling his eyebrows and grinning.

Tara couldn’t believe how brazen Grayson had become. Unbelievable! She thought; deciding to put an end to his ridiculous behavior once and for all.

She leaned in and returned the whisper, “See, here’s the thing…I’m already on another team and my uh, teammate, would be very upset if she happened to find out that you tried to recruit me.”

Grayson’s sly little smirk never faltered, “Tara, come on, you’re an uber celebrity goddess. Do you really want to end up doing dishes with my little sister?”

Tara looked him straight in the eyes, now knowing exactly how Willow had felt about ten minutes earlier, “Dishes? Oh we won’t be doing any dishes,” she said as she took one of his hands in hers and looked it over.

“Hey, what’s with that?” Willow asked when she returned with their refilled drinks.

“Oh, I was just admiring Grayson’s hands, because about this time tomorrow…they’ll look like that of an eighty year old man from all the dishes he’s gonna have to wash.”

Willow snorted and giggled, poking her tongue out between her teeth, “Better use Palmolive Bro. You know, for those dish pan hands?” Ignoring Grayson as he began to speak, Tara took her drink and entwined her hand with Willow’s; as they turned away and went to sit down in an over sized chair.

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

About thirty minutes later, Tara was staring blankly trying to keep a somewhat pleasant look on her face and Willow was sitting with her fingers in her ears as Jeff choked out a less than stellar rendition of Aerosmith’s Dream On.

Tara reached over and pulled on Willow’s right hand, “No way you get to plug your ears,” she hissed, “This is all your fault…you chose the song, now you have to suffer through it, just like the rest of us.”

Willow reluctantly complied with Tara’s request and removed the remaining finger. She figured it wasn’t so bad; after already having sat through Rachael’s squeaky version of Popular from Wicked and Eli attempting to hit the high notes in RainOn My Parade, the Barbara Streisand classic.

Once finished, Jeff took a bow and everyone clapped. Hunter was up next and he performed a rousing version of Footloose, complete with part of the Kevin Bacon dance. The three remaining contestants knew he would be hard to beat.

“Ok, Willow…you’re up!” Ira exclaimed, “Eli, what song did you choose for your sister?”

Eli grinned, “I choose Shoop by Salt-n-Pepa.”

Willow’s head shot up and her eyes went wide, “What? Thanks a lot Eli, you know I can’t rap!”

Tara covered her mouth with her hand, in an attempt to stifle a laugh; the mere thought of her girlfriend rapping was enough to push her over the edge.

“Et tu Tara, et tu?” Willow said as she rose from the chair, to take her place in front of the TV.

“You can do it baby,” The blonde encouraged.

Willow looked up at Tara while fiddling with the mic, “You do know what this song is about, right?”

Tara shot Willow a sweet lopsided smile and winked as Willow continued to grumble under her breath. The song finally started and Willow struggled in the beginning; rolling her eyes at certain lyrics until she finally got the rhythm down and began dancing around. She got several wolf whistles when she gyrated her hips and behind to coincide with the lyrics. The song finally ended and she received a round of applause, especially from her girlfriend; who was completely turned on by the provocative dancing.

Willow grinned widely, taking a bow and returning to her spot next to Tara where she received a quick peck on the cheek. “Your turn Gray,’ Willow said, practically bouncing up and down on her seat, “What’d you pick for him Tare?”

As luck would have it, Tara had chosen Grayson’s name and would not tell Willow her song choice until it was time for him to sing.

A wicked grin spread across Tara’s face, “I choose Sweet Transvestite from The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”

The entire room erupted with laughter as Grayson turned white as a sheet and his mouth fell open in shock.

Willow was beside herself, clutching her stomach in hysterics. She couldn’t imagine her super macho brother singing such a song, “Oh. My. God! You are awesome baby! Just one of the many reasons why I love you so much,” Willow proclaimed, taking Tara’s face in her hands and kissing her soundly on the lips.

No one was paying too much attention to them, except for Sheila; who had heard Willow’s second declaration of love in as many days. She visibly stiffened and the smile fell from her face, “Ok, ok…can we please just get on with this. It’s getting late.”

The group managed to pull themselves together just as the music started and Grayson attempted to keep up with the racy lyrics and just get through in one piece. When the song finally ended, he simply dropped the mic and returned to his seat, receiving numerous catcalls and teasing from his siblings.

Finally it was Tara’s turn and she waited anxiously for Hunter to announce his song choice.

Hunter smiled and winked at Tara, “I chose Come Out Tonight by Melissa Etheridge.

“GAH! This is SO unfair; it’s a conspiracy! I think you guys have some sort of alliance or something,” Grayson grumbled.

“Ok Tara, show us what cha got!” Ira announced, completely ignoring his eldest son’s childish protests.

To say that Tara was thrilled was putting it mildly, not only did she know the song by heart, but it matched their situation perfectly. She knew that she would be able to sing it with passion and sing it directly to Willow.

As the song played, Tara didn’t even bother to look at the lyrics on the screen. She kept her eyes trained on Willow and belted out the song as if she’d written it herself. She definitely gave Melissa Etheridge a run for her money.

Willow giggled at Tara’s theatrics when she pointed and gestured towards Willow while enhancing certain lyrics. Willow never had really heard Tara sing or perform live before, in any capacity, and she was completely entranced. Tara’s eyes were dark, seductive, and burned into Willow; causing the redhead’s breath to quicken and her heart to pound in her chest. Tara could really sing and Willow was mesmerized.

When the song finally ended, all of Willow’s siblings were on their feet, clapping and cheering. At the judge’s table, Ira stood and cheered for Tara as well, “BINGO!” He shouted, “I think we have a winner!”

Willow engulfed Tara in a giant hug, jumping up and down, “No dishes! No dishes! Woo Hoo!!!!!”

Tara returned the hug and squeezed the happy redhead tightly, “No baby, no dishes for us,” She panted still a bit out of breath.

Grayson came over to congratulate Tara; taking her hand and giving her a royal bow, “I like you Maclay. Not only can you take it, but you can dish it out as well. Yep, you’re gonna fit in just fine around here.” His eyes met Willow’s and he smiled, giving her a nod of approval.

As the evening was winding down, everyone began going his or her separate ways. Rachael, Jeff, Eli and Milo headed out to their respective homes with a promise to their mother of being back mid morning on Thanksgiving Day. Willow’s parents and grandparents eventually retreated to their bedrooms for some much needed rest before the big day.

“Hey, you guys up for a movie?” Hunter asked Willow and Tara. Getting a nod from both girls in unison.

“What about me?” Grayson asked.

“Uh, I thought you were heading home.”

“Well, that all depends on the movie,” Grayson responded.

“How about 127 hours? I haven’t seen it yet and it’s supposed to be really good.” Hunter said.

Everyone nodded their approval and they settled in to watch. Willow and Tara snuggled together in the big chair under a blanket with Hunter and Grayson on the couch.

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

A little over two hours later as images of the real hiker rolled across the screen, tears were dripping down both of Willow’s cheeks. Tara smiled tenderly, reaching out to wipe the tears away.

“I’m sorry,” Willow sniffled, trying to hide the emotional moment from her brothers.

“Oh sweetie, for what?”

“For being such a blubbering baby,” Willow whispered.

Tara continued stroking her girlfriend’s check, “I wouldn’t have you any other way,” She said, as she wrapped an arm around Willow and snuggled her close.

Willow melted into Tara’s comforting arms and warm embrace; feeling happy and loved.

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

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, my favorite all time Grammy moment... CLICK HERE

[AstronSoul]

~sings like the meow commercial~

dibs dibs dibs dibs, dibs dibs dibs dibs, dibs dibs dibs dibs dibs dibs dibs dibs =^_^=

The next chapter will be the big Thanksgiving chapter and it may be 2-3 weeks before I get a chance to update. Mainly because I’m really busy next few weeks and I won’t have much writing time, but you never know. Let’s hope I can squeeze some it!! Until then...

Real life is more important so I understand if there isn't an update for a few weeks (though I will pray you can sneak one in) Plus I can reread everything for the 15th time!!!

The woman’s eyes finally settling on Tara’s chest, “Well, I can certainly see why you choose Tara, she is definitely abundant in all the right places.”

Wow, wow, wow Nana has guts! GO NANA!!! Lol that was priceless

“Yes dear, I know who you are. I watch that Laurel Grant tramp around every week blowing through men like the wind,” Adel stated dryly.
“NANA…SERIOUSLY! Tara is NOT a tramp!!”

Ya know I do think Tara is right later on, Nana feigns ignorance, cause even she knows it's just a show. Oh this is so funny, I love to laugh and you have me laughing!

Willow sighed and blew some stray hair off her forehead, “It’s a torturous game invented by my older siblings to torment those of us that are vocally impaired. Everyone throws their name in a hat, then we each pull a name out and we get to choose a song for that person to sing while my parents and grandparents act as judges. It’s a pre-Thanksgiving tradition…pajama party, games, and karaoke. Think of it as the really bad outtakes of American Idol. Oh, I almost forgot…you get extra points for your performance as well.”

this sounds like an amazing idea, I should implement it (plus I can sing hehe) but would love to see dad do dishes for once. I have to say this type of family I see some of my family in, nice to see.

A wicked grin spread across Tara’s face, “I choose Sweet Transvestite from The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”

(imagin a smiley falling out of it's seat lauging inserted here)

OMG this is just hilarious, great song to give Grayson, hell he deserves it for all the damn flirting when he is supposedly taken, and with Tara no less, he is cool but a pig (Like Tony Denozo from NCIS).

Willow was beside herself, clutching her stomach in hysterics. She couldn’t imagine her super macho brother singing such a song, “Oh. My. God! You are awesome baby! Just one of the many reasons why I love you so much,” Willow proclaimed, taking Tara’s face in her hands and kissing her soundly on the lips.
No one was paying too much attention to them, except for Sheila; who had heard Willow’s second declaration of love in as many days. She visibly stiffened and the smile fell from her face, “Ok, ok…can we please just get on with this. It’s getting late.”

Of course Sheila still doesn't like the fact that Willow keeps proclaiming her love for her girl. Know what Sheila you can be all nice or a total bitch, it isn't going to change Willow's heart. Man hope that gets resolved soon.

Hunter smiled and winked at Tara, “I chose Come Out Tonight by Melissa Etheridge.

Oh he definitely knew what he was doing, the perfect song for Tara. Loved how she kept drawing Willow into it. Oh and teh best part, NO DISHES!!!!! LMAO

Grayson came over to congratulate Tara; taking her hand and giving her a royal bow, “I like you Maclay. Not only can you take it, but you can dish it out as well. Yep, you’re gonna fit in just fine around here.” His eyes met Willow’s and he smiled, giving her a nod of approval.

Oooo stamp of approval, funny how other's think someone can't dish as well as take it, till' they are dished it real bad. Glad he approves at least.

Willow melted into Tara’s comforting arms and warm embrace; feeling happy and loved.

awwwe ~sighs happily~ so cute, adorable and perfect.

Great update, and can't wait for more!


Astron

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... Big lol for Nana... Tara choosing Sweet Transvestite for Grayson really made me laugh... Extra big yay for Tara & Willow not having to do Thanksgiving dishes...

[willowtarabuffyfaith]

Wooo! Loved the update!
NANA ADELE! Ohhh she was the best! I hope to see more of her in the future

[Ariel]

Shelby,

First the title:

Chapter 47: No Sweating in the Spotlight

You rock! So true, it’s hell on your make-up and ruins your hair! Plus a perfect metaphor for their life as a couple and their life in Sheilamouth (the AU version of the Hellmouth, natch!)

The woman’s eyes finally settling on Tara’s chest, “Well, I can certainly see why you choose Tara, she is definitely abundant in all the right places.”

“NANA!” Willow shouted, turning beet red with a look of complete horror on her face as she frenziedly thrust her hand in front of Tara’s chest, as if to shield her from prying eyes.

Adele looked at Willow questioningly as if what she said was the most normal thing in the world, “What? Why back in my day I was quite perky as well,” She sighed, “Now I could get a mammogram and a pedicure at the same time.”

God, you’re good! I’m dying here!!!!

Willow stood rooted to the spot, with her mouth opening and closing, completely speechless. She turned when she heard her father clear his throat, but he didn’t speak. He simply held up his hand, offering his bottle of beer to his daughter; who took it gratefully and chugged the remainder.

Adorable Willow freak-out AND grandpa’s mole on his ass – damn, girl! You’re killing me! And Tara’s insight about Grandma getting to say what she wants, right on!

She inspected the clothing and looked at Tara with arched eyebrows, “Where did you find these?” She asked as she held the well worn Scooby Doo pajama’s

YESSSS!!!!!!! It HAS to be Scooby-Doo pajamas!

LOVE Tara’s choice for Grayson, strategically sound and hilarious, too!!! Yay, T.!

Tara’s eyes were dark, seductive, and burned into Willow; causing the redhead’s breath to quicken and her heart to pound in her chest. Tara could really sing and Willow was mesmerized.

Okay, I’m picturing their couch time . . . *sigh*

Lovely ending. Sweet and tender, cuddled up in each other’s arms. I know how busy/crazy things can get but don’t keep us waiting too long, okay?

Ariel
How I Met Your Mother

[True_Love]

Great Update Shel,

I loved grandma Adele. For a moment I was having Sixteen Candles flashbacks and was getting ready for her to reach out and feel her up telling her how perky she is. Whew, dodged that one. I could just feel how embarrassed Willow must have been. I would have died.

I also love the Thanksgiving Eve traditions. Right after I read the story I went and talked to my wife and told her that we should start something like that...minus the Karaoke. We are both vocally challanged and let's just say it would be.....unpleasent.

So, I am still trying to figure out what your up to with this whole vet thing. At this point I am a complete loss based on your previous comments. Hmmm, maybe you're going to go complete cannon and she's going to join a coven and learn to levitate and then Tara and her are going to go to a club when they get back to LA where they slow dance and rise slowly above the crowd *sigh*. That's probably not it but, that's how close I am to guessing, lol.

Keep up the great work!

[Ariel]

Okay, I hallucinated a Dibs-ing here!

Yes, I'm embarrassed, but I do love your story!!!

Going now . . .