New Fic: Contentment

[BethanyB3]

Missing this story, hope all is well & that you'll update soon. Please!!!

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~ " If I could, then I would, I'll go wherever you will go. " ~

~ The Calling ~

[ExtraFlameyWT]

Hey Lu!



Just dropping by to say hi...I can't wait for more!!



Love you!



Sweet Pea



p.s. Now you can check your inbox.

*****
"Pope John Paul today confirmed his opposition to gay marriages, said they're unnatural. Gay marriage is unnatural. Then he put on a pointy hat, his dress, and returned to never having sex at all." -Bill Maher

[mtnlaurel]

I swear this will be the one and only time I am a complete and total jerk by not responding to each individual response. I have read each and every comment and have been so thankful for each one!!! God, you have been so great, so very patient--not to mention encouraging. My life has me running almost all of the time and it's been very difficult to write of late (physically, mentally, emotionally--you name it!). BUT there's more to come. I PROMISE PROMISE an update this weekend. I'd have given up the writing thing by now if it weren't for all of you and stuck to the reruns of Buffy W/T love instead of continuing with this story--you all help keep me going and....let me just say a heartfelt thanks. I would be upset with me if I didn't finish this "thing" and you all help with the incentive--you make me want to try when I don't feel like trying anymore. Must go take care of some family business (grr...sore subject). See you all in the next 24-48 hrs.

Love,

Laurel

[Karzia]

Don't sweat it RL has a tendancey to sneak up and bite us all on the ass now and then. Just go with the flow and eventually things work themselves out.

I for one will wait as long as it takes, as I am loving this story, and am excited to see how you deal with "meet the parents weekend".

"This may be the Hellmouth, but it's our Hellmouth"

--------Tara in "Left of Center"
-------- by: Jomarch



Taste the rainbow

[eccentrictulip]

yayayay laurel!! you're back!!!!

*please use both hands....*

[BethanyB3]

Yea, yea, yea update soon! Welcome back Laurel, been missing your great writing.

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~ " If I could, then I would, I'll go wherever you will go. " ~

~ The Calling ~

[Drakkenfyre]

Hi all! Laurel has gotten really caught up in work and will be awhile before she manages to get back to the board. Everyone calm down!!! She has given me the next chapter. It is my complete honor to post it for her. So here you go: Enjoy!





Chapter 17





Two weeks passed in a relative blur of activity. The day-to-day camp schedule kept the staff busy. Willow eventually adjusted to the too quick ‘catch and release’ flow of campers. That was, however, after the very first week when Tara ended up consoling the redhead for nearly two hours after the last child was picked up.



“Can’t we just tell their parents that they’re not allowed to go home?” Willow grumbled as she made her way back to the Director’s Cabin, hand in hand with the woman she loved.



Tara’s smile was hidden in the darkness, but she couldn’t disguise the mirth in her voice as she responded to Willow’s query. “Sweetheart, I think campers are supposed to go home...something in the way summer camp typically works. Parents expect that their children will actually be returned at some point in time.”



Forehead creased in consternation, the redhead continued. “But I love them...even the one’s that are annoying. I want to keep them. All.”



The director tugged Willow’s hand and stopped their progression along darkened path. Wordlessly, Tara pulled Willow into a loving embrace.



Willow settled into the hug and dropped her head to rest on her lover’s shoulder. Long moments passed before she allowed her curiosity to surface. “So, ah...what’s this for? I mean...not like I don’t like they cuddly-snuggly-huggly stuff. No problem with such things whatsoever! Nope...nuh-uh. Not me. But I’d like to know what I did right so I can be sure I do it more often.”



Chuckling at Willow’s comment, Tara remained quiet for only a few more seconds, ordering her thoughts.



“I was just thinking, about you, about the way you are with the kids, about the changes I have seen in you. I-I can’t find the words...it’s just, you. You get me. I mean, you understand how I feel every week...you feel the same way. And you don’t have to really even try. Here I am, trying to convince you to let the kids go when really, I’m saying the same thing to myself.”



“We got pretty lucky didn’t we, finding each other I mean?” Willow whispered near Tara’s ear.



Squeezing the slighter body closer, Tara understood her lover’s meaning but chose to tease the redhead instead. “Luck had nothing to do with it. I’m irresistible. You were drawn to me across the country, over the river and through the woods because...”



Tara’s teasing was cut short by Willow’s lips on hers.





These days, everyone was looking forward to the midsummer vacation around the Fourth of July.



Tara and Willow planned for that time a trip to California to pack as much of Willow’s belongings as possible...not to mention the inevitable introduction of Tara to Willow’s family and friends.l.



With this trip in mind, Tara asked Ed to stop by Saturday afternoon for an important meeting.



“Hey kid. What’s up?”



The concerned timbre of Ed’s voice met Tara’s ears and she swiveled in her office chair to return her brother’s loving gaze.



“Thanks for coming, Ed.”



Entering the office with an almost boyish grin on his face, the large man shook his head slightly at Tara’s thanks. “Like I could ever deny you anything...what can I do?”



“Some advice would be useful...after the advice, we can talk about the favor.”



“Advice and a favor...do I have to break a sweat? Cause if I do, the answer is no.” Ed supplied with humor to ease the slight strain he felt in the younger woman.



Tara smiled at the man’s attempt to lighten the atmosphere. “It’s really a good thing...I’m just a little scared and I want your support before I go on.”



Ed’s larger hand patted Tara’s clenched fists. “You have my support-no matter what. Now...tell me so I can fix it all since you seem to think I am the sum of all wisdom...and manliness, don’t forget the manliness.”



The director laughed out loud at the absurdity of the man’s words. “Dummy.”



“Dork.” He responded quickly.



“Jerk.”



“Nerd.”



“Man.”



Ed threw his hands up in surrender “You win. Beth always uses that trump card...I finally learned it’s best to let it go. Now, really. What’s up.”



A huge smile split Tara’s features. “When you asked Beth to marry you...did you ask for her parent’s blessing first?”



“Well, yeah but...Wait! Why?”



“What did you say to them?” Tara continued, ignoring her brother’s question.



“I’ll tell you after you answer my question. Are you planning to ask Willow to marry you?”



The expression of peace and pure love that softened the woman’s face and filled her eyes with warmth was answer enough to Ed’s question.



Well...they think alike. How crazy is it that Willow came by two nights ago to ask me the same thing? Wonder which one will work up the nerve first...I think my wife and I are going to have to place a friendly little wager when I get home.



Concern over Ed’s amused expression caused Tara to falter in her own reverie.



“Ed, what to you think? You know how much I value your opinion. I love Willow, and if she agrees we will be married. I would just be happier having your approval.”



The creases around Ed’s eyes crinkled with his smile. Pride and joy entered his eyes as the looked at the woman sitting across from him as would a brother and father wrapped in one bear-like package might. His answer was to stand from his place in the office chair to greet the blonde with a bone-crushing hug and kiss on the forehead. “I look good in a tux. As long as I get to wear one, you have my approval.”



Tara’s deep laughter filled the room as she returned the warm embrace. “Thank you so much, Eddy.”



“Woo, now that’s one I haven’t heard from you in a while.” Ed commented, smiling into Tara’s hair.



“I know. I’m sorry. I don’t know why I haven’t called you that lately.”



“Eh, oh well. Say. You got the ring yet? I asked a girl to marry me once...I know how important such things are.”



“Uh, I have my grandmother’s ring...remember that one? I’m having it cleaned and sized even now.”



Ed continued his smile. “Well, you’ve got that covered it would seem...one thing. Colin and I were going to set you up with the furniture and stuff for the new place. That was just the love we wanted to show and Colin really wanted the chance to design something for you two. But, ah, now-with the whole actual wedding thing involved-I’m thinking...we could offer our service in repair and the like. A wedding gift. What do you say? Can we men do something completely masculine and use hammer and power tools? Please?”



Tara’s laughter had only just subsided when her brother’s remarks prompted the fit of giggles once again. “Watch what you say, brother-o’-mine. I know a few females rather handy with the, um, hands and wood-worky stuff. Your daughter happens to be one of them.”



Dark brown eyes turned almost serious, while Ed’s voice dropped lower into a deeper teasing tone. “Yeah, but this is the only thing I’m good at...let me take a little pride ok. Let me just hold onto the fantasy that I am the ultimate handy man.”



“I love you. Have I told you that lately?”



“Nope. I don’t recall having heard that from you. But, just in case there is doubt. I love you, too.”



--



“Colin! It’s beautiful! The crib is just perfect for Lambchop.”



The young man grinned sheepishly as Willow lavished praise on his creation. “I-I just noticed he was sleeping in the bathtub. I figured since he is the first new addition to your family, Uncle Colin would just have to set him up right.”



Willow beamed at the younger version of Ed waiting expectantly in the doorway of the cabin. “Yes, well....he does follow me around everywhere I go, and he can be as stubborn as a goat sometimes-no, that’s not right, but then, sheep doesn’t make sense either, OH! He acts like a child. That’s it. A spoiled baby, so a crib makes sense. Thank you!”



“I’m just glad you like it. It was a pleasure to make.”



The redhead considered Tara’s nephew for a moment longer. “You know what. You remind of my friend Xander...all buildy with the wood and the tools and that kind of stuff. I bet you two would get along great.”



“Well, if he’s the one that built that chest you and Tara have in your room, and he’s ever in need of a job, you’d better tell him to see my dad.”



Willow lightly kissed Colin’s cheek and smiled at his slight blush. “Thank you again, Colin. It means a lot...not just the crib-not that that’s not thankworthy, cause it is-wow. What I meant to say is thanks for being my friend...for taking me into your family.”



“Hey, Wil. You accept us just as much as we accept you. Cause, you know, we are kinda strange at times.” the teen remarked with a cross eyed expression. “Seriously, though. Anytime. Anything I can help you with.”



“Really?”



“You’re gonna have to stop questioning my word, you know. We’re like family now.”



“No, I just hate having to ask for help...but this is a good thing. So? Wanna help?”



“Whatcha got for this man with mad woodworking skills.” Colin stated in his deepest, most impressive voice all the while flexing his muscles in mock display of brawn.



Willow chuckled at the resemblance to his father’s usual antics. “Ever make a dance floor?”



Dark eyes quirked in curiosity.



--

"In my world there are people in chains and we ride them like ponies."

[ExtraFlameyWT]

Hey Lu..great update. They are so cute..both thinking the same things!



Love you, cutie!



Aimee

*****
"Pope John Paul today confirmed his opposition to gay marriages, said they're unnatural. Gay marriage is unnatural. Then he put on a pointy hat, his dress, and returned to never having sex at all." -Bill Maher

[The Rose24]

Awwwwwww. This is so beautiful. They are going to propose to each other. I can't wait.

Tara: My heart doesn't stutter.

Tara: Willow, I got so lost.
Willow: I found you. I will always find you.

Willow: Hi, um Tara. I was wondering maybe you want to go out some time for coffee? food? Kisses and gay love?

[VampNo12]

Laurel glad to see an update to this amazing story, and the wait was worth it with this part! I thought it was so cute how Willow didn't want the children to return home to their parents. It's true Willow has come a long way since her first uneasiness about being in a camp setting with children. And I loved how Tara basically said that Willow expressed out-loud the same feeling (about the campers) she feels every time the campers leave them. With this in mind, this just reinforces the deep connection W&T share with each other (ie even their thoughts/feelings are in synch).



Again I am enjoying Ed and his relationship with Tara. This is the type of brother Tara deserves, and not like the one she unfortunately got stuck with on the actual show (ie Donny). I thought it was adorable how both W&T both went to Ed for advice and approval about proposing marriage, and I can't wait to see who gets to propose first, or knowing how in sync they are I wouldn't be surprised if they propose at the same time. Also I loved the line of Ed's ("Can we men do something completely masculine and use power tools? Please?), this made me laugh-out loud! Lastly, I am curious about the dance floor Willow wants Colin to build, and I am looking forward to the next part.

[Kieli]

Lu, you've done it to me again....gone and turned me into a puddle of mush. God knows, I wish my parents had been so accepting when I married Diana. Wanted a cool wedding and all....*sigh* alas, such things are kinda difficult out here in the land of steers and only a few queers. I am always in awe of how you manage to write so well in the midst of your busy life. Tell Becca and Travis they better be glad to have you



Much love,

T.

Love is tricky. It is never mundane or daily. You can never get used to it. You have to walk with it, then let it walk with you. You can never balk. It moves you like the tide. It takes you out to sea then lays you on the beach again. Today's struggling pain is the foundation for a certain stride through the heavens. You can run from it but you can never say no. It includes everyone."--Amy Tan "The Hundred Secret Senses"

[willow420]

Great update! But I'm still holding out for Six Flags.

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A.K.A. Liz


"Fly, fly my pretty." Willow from Grave
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They love the women that will never love them. They are Lesbros!

[darkmagicwillow]

Thank you! Your timing is superlative. I was feeling depressed tonight and needed some Contentment. I like seeing Willow becoming softer and more open and the part about her not wanting to let the children return home was great.

--
"Omnia mutantur, nihil interit. "   "Everything changes, but nothing is truly lost."

[jdcioffi]

A dance floor, eh? Dude, I'm still hooked ... and now there's gonna br dancing and proposing? Hell, I think I'll just sit here and wait for the update.







JD

"I smell the smelly smell of something that smells smelly!" (SpongeBob Squarepants)

[Miss1234Kitty]

I am sooo glad my exams are over and we have AOL so I can just stay online all day.



Heaven.



Gem

Tara: There's just so much to work through... and can you just be kissing me now?

[tommo]

This is exactly the kind of brother that Tara deserves. And their interaction is wonderfully calming for her, I think. I like how Willow went to see Ed about exactly the same thing, and also that Tara is being so sensible about it. I'm not sure whether it was deliberate, going from the marriage proposal conversation to a new crib. Heh. It seemed kind of traditionally perfect that way. Thanks.



Oooh, you might want to sort out the html tags though; as this chapter is all in italics.

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Squish. Squish. Squish.

[xita]

That's just so great both preparing to propose. But I am excited over both of them going back to California to meet Willow's friends and family. It's important.

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Willow: (to Tara) I could heal.

Tara: (to Willow)And we’re gone.

[mollyig]

Love the synchronicity!



Tara in Sunnydale meeting the others, that'll be fun.

Adding up the total of a love that's true, multiply life by the power of two
Indigo Girls

[LeatherQueen]

Great update! I can't wait to see the visit to California.

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"But when they're playing your song on the jukebox in Hell, you might as well dance." - K. Simpson


"Futile... like a FOX, baby!" - Tara in The Late Shift by wiccachica

[Tiggrscorpio]

Oh golly, I find myself so excited you would think they were asking me to get married! I'm also enjoying the relationship between Ed and Tara. Another strong update, mtnlaurel. Thanks!

*****

She's my everything!

[Karzia]

Yet an other fabo update Looking forward to nuptuals and smoochies



The others are right though, Ed is DEFINITLY the brother Tara desserved to have, I am really enjoying there interaction.

"This may be the Hellmouth, but it's our Hellmouth"

--------Tara in "Left of Center"
-------- by: Jomarch



Taste the rainbow

[Willow Rocks]

I was so looking foward to this update and wow it was worth the wait

[eccentrictulip]

did i ever mention how much i love this fic?? they're both going to propose....lambchop has a crib, and all is right in the world. and a dance floor to boot--this gets better and better and better thank you, thank you, thank you for the update!!!! marvelous, as always....

*please use both hands....*

[singgirl]

Ahhh! *high girly shrieks* I love this! Sorry to jump in all late like, but ya know, I'm slow. Anywho, I love this! It's sooo great, I've been reading it all day! Please update as soon as possible!!

[StRaWbErRy]

This story is so awesome. I have been waiting for an update and -POOF!- look! there is an update! (Thank goodness, cuz I would surely have died without one). I love the way you have them both thinking the same thing. It's so lovable! I wish i had a pet lamb. Stupid of me to be living in the city when I love the farm life....grumble grumble. Keep up the awesome work. I'm waiting for the next update...but I've never been good with the whole "patience" thing.



-SB

[Kerrison]

How did I miss this the first time?



Somehow I didn't start reading this until... 2 days ago? And now I'm all caught up. :-D It's definately great; now I'm the queen of understatements.



-Kerry

"What a curious thing to be so upset about. Nature delights in diversity. Why don’t human beings?" -HBO Southern Comfort

[ExtraFlameyWT]

I miss you, Lu!!! Where are you? We must talk...



Aimee

*****
"Pope John Paul today confirmed his opposition to gay marriages, said they're unnatural. Gay marriage is unnatural. Then he put on a pointy hat, his dress, and returned to never having sex at all." -Bill Maher

[singgirl]

oh man,. still no update? C'mon, give a girl some hope....

[hush30]

Everyone seems to have said it all but here goes. This is a fantastic fic and I have enjoyed every single word. I can't wait for Tara to go with Willow to meet the gang and to find out how each of them plans to propose. Your updates are definately be worth waiting for. Thanks for taking the time to entertain us kittens

[BethanyB3]

Hi, I got excited when I saw this back on the 1st page, thought, oh yea update. Ooops. But hey, it's just past the 4th of July, you know, time for that midsummer break and trip to CA that you mentioned in your last great part. Which like the rest of this story was wonderful. Well if waiting is needed then wait I will, your writing is always worth it.

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~"If I could then I would, I'll go wherever you will go."~

~The Calling~