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

[JustSkipIt]

Again, I'm sliding in for very insufficient feedback. I love the snuggly hanging out and I'm so so so curious and worried about Tara's secret. Personally, I favor the telling someone the terrible secret BEFORE having sex with them all weekend approach but who am I to judge?... Ack.

[BeMyDeputy]

Ah, the craziness that is integrating adult lives.

Yeah, I've reread this several times now, and that's the only thing I can think of to say.

Oh, and this: very sweet.

[Finey_McFine]

Laragh:
THE MIGHTY DIBS-MEISTER!!!!!

Just giving away my dibs now, Shel?

I finally got it right!! LOL

I love Tara's hinting about the tub lol. That sounds like an excellent way to recover after a game!

Lucky for Tara, Willow has about 2 dozen home games she'll need to recover from!

Wow, what the hell happened 8 years ago???

Our little Tara might not be so innocent after all…….

I’m glad you liked the chapter and the swoonage. That’s what happens when I get all sappy on Valentine’s Day.

Thanks Laragh!


zampsa19752001:

I’m glad that they had the relaxing bath and wonderful talk afterwards... I'm happy that Willow basically said those 3 magical words to Tara without actually saying them...

I think our Willow may have some trust issues or maybe she thinks it’s too soon. We’ll have to wait and see.

Thanks for reading!!!


Sierra:

Laragh's right, it wasn't my dibs

I know, I fixed it…I seemed to have a scrolling up disability, lol.

Glad you liked the update!! We’ll have to wait a bit for the big secret reveal. They’ll be too busy dealing with other, more pressing matters.

Thanks for the feedback!!!

wimpy0729:

Now my mind is going about 100 mph trying to figure out Tara's big secret.

And I guarantee you won’t figure it out! Lol I’ve never seen it in any other fics, at least the hundreds that I’ve read. So, I’m gonna keep you guessing for a bit!

Willow's speech was absolutely beautiful, way too much to quote because every word was so heartfelt and perfect.

Thank you! I’m glad it went the way it was supposed to and I think Tara got it too.

Thanks for the feedback!

taranwillow4ever:

I love this story, and I love that you have some realistic barriers. I figure that Tara's secret is bad, but nothing they can't handle.

I’m sure they’ll work through what ever it is:)

Thanks for love and the feedback!


SMGOVAN:

Okay, at the risk of perpetuating the stereotype (about me being violent)..I'm gonna guess that Tara pulled a 187 on some perv who tried to date rape her (okay, clearly I have issues).

Hahaha…I totally laughed out loud! You know what they say…admitting it is the first step! BTW…I had to look up what a 187 was, lol.

Gotta say, I have always been a Tara girl. But the way you write Willow has kind of made me have second thoughts...Even though she has problems saying the "L" (love) word, The way she comforts Tara is just the sweetest thing ever

Ok, so I love Willow…there my secret’s out! Lol I kinda feel like Willow sometimes gets sort of a bum rap in the land o’ fan fic and I really wanted to write a sweet Willow-centric story. I’m thrilled to see it’s having the desired effect!!

I found your Tara's thoughts on perhaps quiting the business and being true to herself ironic after Amber's blog post on doing "Art for arts sake".. I for one will dig anything Ms. Benson wants to do now and in the future.

Funny that you should mention that blog post. I actually wrote this chapter before I saw her post and it made me laugh cuz I thought the same thing! I love Amber’s honesty and agree with you, I’ll support anything she does. She’s coming here on the 7th for a book signing and I’ll be there with bells on…buying her books, etc.


Thanks for the feedback!



indigokane:

Ahhhh, nothing like a great update of a wonderful story to make a bad day melt away. but, oh the angst!!! a horrible secret? there are just too many possibilities!! death? drugs? naughty sex?

Thanks! Glad I could make your day a little better:) Ohh, naughty sex? That doesn’t sound too horrible to me!!

Thanks for the feedback!


KnightlyLove:

Oh my so cute. You write so romantically - wish I'd have read this on valentine's day!!!

Thank you!!! I’m glad it worked the way it was supposed to.

Thanks for the feedback!


beautiful_love:

It just occured to me that I read this story yesterday and then got distracted before leaving a comment about how absolutely awesome this story is.

Awww, thank you so much! That’s very sweet of you:)

love how you show how close the two have gotten but you're not rushing them along to the alter. It's the first, slow, sweet parts of falling in love that we remember and that we look back so fondly on.

And some of us are looking further back than others, lol. Never have truer words been said about beginnings. It’s so important later to have that wonderful start to look back on. When things get complicated later, it reminds us exactly why we’re with that person in the first place.

Defintely curious about Tara's secret though I can't even begin to venture a guess on what it possibly could be.

I don’t think it’s something that’s been done, at least in the fics that I’ve read, so I hope it’s not too over the top!!

Thanks as always for the feedback!!!


LonelyTara:

This was a very sweet chapter, but I am nervous about the secret Tara's hiding. Hopefully it won't make Willow question their relationship.

Let’s hope not!


Thanks for the feedback!!


love2003:
Talking and working through things is always good! It looks like Tara needs to do a little more talking though.


Thanks for the feedback!


Ariel
HI!
I certainly hope you’re COLD SHOWER(S) weren’t too cold. LOL

Really love “basking in all things Willow.” The details of Willow’s body, details are what love is made of and you bring them in beautifully!

I feel like there is always one specific point in every great relationship where you have that ‘ah ha’ moment. Where you look at that person and realize just how much in love with them you really are and how perfect they are to you in every way.

It’s the legs around the waist hotness, combined with new lover sweetness and with Willow offering her home and her home cooking so eagerly and so lovingly.

This is why I love Willow. She has a certain bravado, for lack of a better word. Tara could probably buy Willow’s entire apt complex 10x’s over and she’s used to living the super star lifestyle, yet Willow has no qualms in asking Tara over to her humble abode that could probably fit in the bathroom she’s sitting in, lol.

I love the tenderness, the geekiness, the clear way they need and love each other. Beautiful!!!

Ahhh yes, the geekiness and on both their parts. Tara is a great actress and can certainly pull off a cool exterior, but deep down she is just as awkward and geeky as Willow. But isn’t that what we love about both of them?

Ps…I will be addressing your blatant accusations of the pruny nature when I comment on your recent chapter. I must defend my good name! haha

Love your feedback as always!!!


DaddyCatAlso
Hahaha! So true. I guess I’ll have to get creative and think up some cleaver headlines.

Thanks!!


Gaga01

I feel bad for them...why does everything has to be so complicated? I hope that it'll get better, but because of their public lives, I doubt it'll be an easy journey for them.

Life is complicated and messy for all of us and theirs is no different. Well, except that not only do they have to deal with the usual relationship stuff, but also having it blogged about.

Family time is coming…slowly, but it’s coming and I promise lot’s of fun!!

Thanks for the feedback!!!


vampyregurl73

Reality comes crashing in all to soon, doesn't it?

Unfortunately, yes. Lol

This really stuck out to me for some reason, it's sweet, it's honest, and after Willow's own admissions of her lack of interest in previous girls and their attentions I think this shows she does have emotional depth, but just not for them. They just weren't Tara.

Attraction is a funny thing. I’m sure a lot of those girls were very nice, but when there’s no chemistry, no spark…it’s blah. Plus, all the prior girls were probably set ups, no one that Willow actually chose or took an interest in.

Thanks!!

JustSkipIt

Again, I'm sliding in for very insufficient feedback.

Which is appropriate since softball is a central theme here, lol!

Personally, I favor the telling someone the terrible secret BEFORE having sex with them all weekend approach but who am I to judge?... Ack.

Yeah, but then that would be no fun;( I’m sure she’ll come clean soon.


Thanks for the feedback!!!


BeMyDeputy

Ah, the craziness that is integrating adult lives.

Always a treat, isn’t it?

I’m glad you enjoyed the chapter. I hope you didn’t get any cavities from all the sweetness!!

Thanks for the fb!!


[center]NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW[/center]

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: R (For Language)

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

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



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

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Happy Sunday Kittens! At some point in this chapter I use the dreaded ‘C’ word, you know the one…rhymes with hunt. Sorry, I know most people dislike the word immensly, but it was appropriate and you all already hate the person that uses it, so it’s all good. BTW…it only appears once.

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

Chapter 21: Sometimes Tempers Flare


Monday came quickly and neither Willow nor Tara was quite ready for the suddenness of the morning. After their heart to heart, they made love into the early hours of the morning. Their lovemaking was slow and tender, as they mapped each other’s bodies, wanting to explore every inch of skin and memorize each little curve. They finally fell asleep, wrapped around each other, after sharing light kisses and murmurs of devotion.

Tara had to be on the set early, but Willow didn’t have class until noon. They checked the video monitor and noticed that a few pesky Paparazzi were already hovering in the driveway; apparently they knew around what time the blonde normally left for the studio. They decided that Tara would leave first and hopefully the Paparazzi would follow. Kelly left right after Tara, so Willow found herself alone in her lover’s house. She showered and made herself breakfast, settling on the patio with Ralphie to eat and enjoy the morning.

After cleaning up the kitchen and starting the dishwasher, Willow checked the monitor again and it looked as though the coast was clear. Willow had seen exactly how stealthy the Paparazzi could be, so just to be safe, she devised a full proof plan just in case. She rummaged around her trunk until she found a screwdriver and an old hoodie. She used the screwdriver to remove the license plate, then put on the hoodie, tucking her hair up under the hood. For the final touch, she slid on her Oakley sunglasses. Willow glanced at her reflection on the car window and chuckled. Geez, I look like a cross between Eminem and the Uni-Bomber.She took a picture of herself on her cell and sent it to Tara, knowing that her girlfriend would get a good laugh at her appearance.

As Willow slowly exited through the gate, three photographers leapt from the bushes and started snapping away. Evading the Paparazzi was becoming something of a game to Willow and her competitive streak was starting to show. Willow smirked at the annoying men and sped away before they had a chance to follow. Ha! Willow Rosenberg does not lose. Figure me out now, fuckers.

Even though she had successfully avoided the evil trio, she couldn’t help but wonder why they were still there. She’d only told a few people about her Halloween plans and had shut her phone off before the party. When she turned her phone back on earlier that morning, there were several voicemail messages from Stacey and a text from Hunter telling her to check her email. She tried to shake it, but the wheels were already in motion and the more she thought about it…the more she realized that someone must have tipped them off.

********

Tara’s morning had been crazy busy and she was exhausted already. Before heading to her dressing room for a lunch break, Tara grabbed a chef salad and a Diet Coke with lime from the Kraft Services table. She had about an hour before she needed to be back on set and she was starving, having only eaten a banana for breakfast. When she entered her dressing room she found Kelly on the phone and typing on the computer at the same time. She was busy booking Tara on a couple talk shows to promote the upcoming sweeps episodes that were to air throughout November. Tara sat her lunch on the counter and then dug through her purse for her cell.

She turned on her phone and saw that she had a couple voicemails and a couple texts from Willow. Tara had made it a point to never have her cell on the set. Some actors carried their cells on the set and checked them obsessively, which annoyed Tara to no end. She’d always considered the phones to be an unnecessary distraction. Tara had gotten into the habit of always turning hers off and leaving it in her dressing room, even now that she actually had a reason to leave it on and carry it with her.

Tara checked the text messages first and a huge grin spread across her face.

“What are you grinning about?” Kelly inquired, clicking the end button on her phone and setting it in her lap.

“Willow sent me the cutest picture of herself,” Tara beamed.

“Hmmm, really?” Kelly asked with a hint of amusement in her voice.

“Not THAT kind of picture, geez Kel!” Not that I would mind. Tara mused internally, as she handed the phone to Kelly.

“You really like her, don’t you?”

“Yeah, I do. She’s really something special.”

Kelly looked quizzically at Willow’s picture, “Tare, why is she dressed like that?”

“She said there were a few Paparazzi still at the house when she left for school this morning.”

“Why would they stay after you left for work? I mean wouldn’t have they followed you?” Kelly asked as she handed Tara’s phone back.

“I don’t know Kel, it’s weird. It’s like somehow they knew Willow was there. But how?” Tara asked Kelly, but it was more of a rhetorical question.

“No idea.”

“Kelly, can you please call Cyndi? See if she can meet with me later today?”

“Sure thing. What do I tell her?”

“Just tell her that I really need to see her and that it’s very important. Thanks Kel, I don’t know what I’d do without you.” Tara put her hand on Kelly’s shoulder and smiled.

Kelly smiled, picking up the phone to call the office of Cyndi Bargerson, Tara’s publicist, and arranged for Cyndi to meet Tara late that afternoon. With the meeting set, Tara felt better and went about eating her lunch. She sent a text back to Willow, but got no reply, guessing that the redhead was probably still in class. Tara saved the picture Willow had sent and made it her cell phone wallpaper. The blonde smiled affectionately at the photo and ran her finger across her girlfriend’s face. My girl.

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

Willow was relieved that her academic day was finally over. She’d had a very tough time staying focused, between the Paparazzi and the email that Hunter had sent; she was preoccupied to say the least.

After Willow’s initial conversation with Hunter, he’d set up Google alert for ‘Tara Maclay.’ He received a nightly email with anything related to Tara that was posted on the Internet. When he’d checked earlier that morning, he came across several pictures of his sister and her girlfriend at the Halloween party. Not only was it on the front page in the entertainment sections of the mainstream media websites, but it was quickly picked up by the celebrity gossip sites and random bloggers. No one but Hunter knew it was Willow, but the media had latched on and now they were officially interested. It was only a matter of time before they were photographed together.

On the way home Willow stopped at the grocery store and picked up the items necessary for their dinner. She arrived home in the mid afternoon, stunned to find Morgan sitting outside her front door.

“Hey,” Willow said reluctantly.

“Hey Will, sorry to show up like this, but I was hoping that we could talk?” Morgan replied.

“Yeah, I guess,” Willow shrugged her shoulders, sliding the key in the lock, she opened the door and invited Morgan in, “Just let me put this stuff away.” She said as she began to empty the contents of the grocery bag.

“Wine huh? Tara coming for dinner?”

Morgan was being nosy and Willow wasn’t interested in playing along, so she just ignored the question.

Morgan knew Willow pretty well and she took her silence as a yes, “So, how have you been?” She asked tentatively.

“Fine.” Willow was short with her answers, clearly uncomfortable having Morgan alone in her apartment.

“Listen Will, we really need to talk about this. I seriously hate all this tension between us and it’s not good for the team.” Morgan stared intently at Willow, with her best concerned look.

Willow smirked, knowing that the part about the team was Morgan’s way of trying to lay guilt on her, “What’s there to talk about? I’m in a relationship with someone that I genuinely care about and you want to sabotage it; no way I’m gonna allow that to happen. End of story.”

“Willow, please don’t be like this. I wanna make things right, I want us back.” Morgan pleaded.

“Us? There is no us Morgan. Why is that so freakin’ hard for you to understand?”

“I don’t mean us-us, I mean friends us,” Morgan took a step closer to Willow, “I just want things back the way they used to be. I miss you.” She reached out and slid a hand down Willow’s arm. Allowing her fingers to linger longer that Willow thought was appropriate and causing her hair to stand on end.

“But, you know Will, us-us would be nice too.” Morgan added in a small voice, peering up at Willow through half lidded eyes.

And there it is. Willow furrowed her auburn brows, taking a step back and shook her head, “What’s wrong with you? Seriously? Did you not hear what I just said?”

“I-I’m not pushing Willow. I just thought that maybe in time…”

“Morgan, it’s been three years! That ship has sailed. Why would you think that my feelings would be any different now?” Willow’s voice had raised an octave, as her patience was being stretched to the limit.

“Will, I just miss you, we miss you. I mean, you never hang out with us anymore and you blew us off Saturday to go to some snobby celebrity party with people you don’t even know. You’re hurting the team and you don’t even care.”

“Wait a minute,” Willow cocked her head and glared at Morgan suspiciously, “How did you know where I was on Saturday? I didn’t tell anyone.” Willow knew that wasn’t exactly the truth since she did tell Stacey, but she also knew that Stacey wouldn’t blab.

“There’s pictures of you and Tara are all over the Internet. Do you think that your friends wouldn’t recognize you? What kind of relationship do you think you have Willow? She’s so embarrassed to be seen with you in public, that she has you dressing in drag!”

Willow laughed sarcastically and shook her head, “Morgan, it’s not what you think. You’re so far off base on this, you have no idea.”

“Well, then why don’t you try explaining it to me?”

“Because my personal life is none of your business.”

“When it affects the team it is.”

“And just how is it affecting the team?” Willow questioned, defensively crossing her arms across her chest.

“Because you were so distracted with your little girlfriend in the stands last week that you allowed yourself to get injured and we ended up losing the game.”

“First of all, I wasn’t distracted and secondly I didn’t allow myself to get injured. Shit happens,” Willow face was now beet red and she was on the verge of screaming, “This conversation is ridiculous! What do you hope to accomplish? Do you want me to say,Oh Morgan you are so right! Why didn’t I see it before? I’ll break up with Tara right away! Is that what you want to hear?”

“I’m just saying-”

“I know what you’re saying and you’re completely out of line. You’re behavior is disgusting and if you don’t plan on apologizing, you can leave now.”

“Willow, I just wish you’d listen to reason!”

Willow inhaled deeply and let out a long sigh, trying to calm her nerves, “Morgan, we’re done, period. I no longer consider you a friend in any way, shape or form. You are a teammate and I will treat you with respect on the field, but off the field, we will have no personal relationship of any kind. Don’t call me, don’t email me and don’t ever come here again.”

“You can’t be serious! We have history, you and I are best friends and you’re gonna let some Hollywood cunt end our friendship?!”

Are you kidding me? I so cannot believe she just went there! “No, YOU ruined our friendship. Now get the fuck out of my house before I physically throw you out on your ass!”

Morgan was livid and Willow actually thought she saw steam coming out of her ears. She spun on her heels and stormed out of Willow’s apartment, slamming the door behind her. Willow was a lot calmer than she thought she’d be. Though she was still angry and her hands were slightly shaking, she actually felt a mixture of relief and pride at standing up to Morgan once and for all. She shook her hands and clinched her fists, attempting to alleviate the jitters and shake off some of the anger. She took a deep breath and decided to call Tara. She knew that just hearing Tara’s voice would instantly calm the stormy emotions that were swirling within. Unfortunately, the blonde didn’t answer.

Morgan’s mood was considerably darker as she paced at the foot of the stairs to Willow’s building. At that moment, she had nothing but revenge on her mind. She stopped suddenly, turned and jogged to her car. She popped the trunk, rummaged through her school bag and removed a notebook. Morgan grabbed a pen and began writing. When she was done, she ran back up to Willows and quietly inserted the folded paper into the space between the door and the molding. She knew that Tara would be the one to see the note first, and a wide nasty grin spread across her face.

[Laragh]

Dibs!!!

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Happy Sunday Kittens! At some point in this chapter I use the dreaded ‘C’ word, you know the one…rhymes with hunt. Sorry, I know most people dislike the word immensly, but it was appropriate and you all already hate the person that uses it, so it’s all good. BTW…it only appears once.

I'm one of those bad people who uses that word in every day life lol. I never mean to and then it comes out of my mouth and I'm like 'whoops'. I blame living in Ireland though, we're a very curse-happy country

I love how every single one of your opening paragraphs pulls me in so deeply. It's like, straight away, I'm like 'yep, into this story, it's awesome'.

Hehe, stealthy Willow.

Even though she had successfully avoided the evil trio

Like it should have always been.

Tara grabbed a chef salad and a Diet Coke with lime from the Kraft Services table.

Can you still get Diet Coke with Lime in the states? 'Cause they sold it for like a month here and then took it off the market. Flavoured beverages is like the biggest thing I miss from living over there.

After Willow’s initial conversation with Hunter, he’d set up Google alert for ‘Tara Maclay.’

*cough* I have one of those too *cough*

I hate you, Morgan. I don't care that you're a fictional character. I. Hate. You.

Fuuuccckkk what did she write?! You know how to leave a girl hanging!!!

I seriously CANNOT WAIT for the next update!!

PS I still want to know Tara's secrets. Teasing me with it in your response to feedback is mean

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... Yay for stealthy Willow making an escape from Tara's house... Aaaargh, I truly hate Bitch M even more than before. I truly hope that Tara somehow misses the note and Willow finds it and disposes of it before it affects their relationship...

[Sierra]

Great update, thanks!

It's not very nice from you to tease us like that! What did Morgan write?? Couldn't we have an extra-update this week? Please!!
It's gonna be hard to wait until next sunday...

[Ariel]

Shel,


Another great chapter! If Willow had your batting average she'd be the best hitter on the planet lol! Everything I love in your writing: romance, reality, and two grown women finding each other with humor, uncertainty, and great love.

Their lovemaking was slow and tender, as they mapped each other’s bodies, wanting to explore every inch of skin and memorize each little curve. They finally fell asleep, wrapped around each other, after sharing light kisses and murmurs of devotion.

True, tender, and utterly beautiful. *sigh* The mapping, the learning, loving and cherishing of each other's body. Very real while being very romantic.


and cute:

The blonde smiled affectionately at the photo and ran her finger across her girlfriend’s face. My girl.

A particularly effective touch, capturing that love where an image is caressed. Very sweet and lovely. Been there . . . love it!


Funny and hot!

“Not THAT kind of picture, geez Kel!” Not that I would mind. Tara mused internally, as she handed the phone to Kelly.

And the humor that I love:

Willow glanced at her reflection on the car window and chuckled. Geez, I look like a cross between Eminem and the Uni-Bomber.

Finally, Willow’s confrontation with the evil Morgan Le Freak was GREAT!!! I love seeing an adult Willow with the self-confidence to hold her ground and call ‘em as she sees ‘em (softball again, lol!)


Yep, the storm-clouds are gathering and are girls will definitely be Racing the Rain and I plan to follow every step of their journey together!!!


Thank-you for an amazing, incredible story.


Ariel
How I Met Your Mother
P.S. There’s a new 12 Step Program PJA, Prune Juice Anonymous, for people struggling with PJ addiction. Remember, admitting it is the first step to recovery!

[Grimm]

Okay, Morgan needs a fucking beating . Tara's name and the "C" word should never be used in the same sentence! To add insult to injury, The biyatch is gonna leave a note, which i'm sure will be full of lies, in the door for Tara to find? I was full of rage after reading this update... and then I saw Ariel's feed back...... . How many steps does the P.J.A. program have? I'm thinking 4.... drink, drop (a deuce), wipe and flush !

[taranwillow4ever]

I too would like an extra update. I don't want to wait for another week to see what Morgan wrote. I have the sneaking suspicion that Morgan is going to "out" Willow as Tara's new 'gal pal' (always hated that tabloid moniker) UGH. I too hate Morgan.

[WR/TM]

I so hate Morgan ....please update soon I can't wait to see what happens and more ....and if Morgan even things about hurting them I'm so going to kick her butt...well at least in my mind

[KnightlyLove]

Okay, such a great story.
Morgan's gonna tell. I'd put $10 on it.
Thank you for making my day

[Promthea128]

Willow glanced at her reflection on the car window and chuckled. Geez, I look like a cross between Eminem and the Uni-Bomber.

cute, silly. I love Willow ninja-ing around.

“Kelly, can you please call Cyndi? See if she can meet with me later today?”

Is Tara setting up her coming out announcement? Or does it relate to her secret? Tara is the only one now that knows, so she wouldn't need to make it public, unless its something that's eating away at her in general, not just that she wants to be honest with Willow.

Morgan is such a bitch. Please don't let her, and her note cause to much drama? I'm figuring there will be enough with the Paparazzi, coming out, Sheila and "the secret."

[Silent_X]

Enjoyed this update as much as the others. I liked Willow's disguise.

Morgan makes me angry. What's even more upsetting is that there are real people who are actually like that. I know a few and they can mess things up very bad very fast. I'm glad Willow kicked her out.

This is one big cliffhanger and I have no doubt it will plague me for the rest of the week. And I have, like, 3 tests this week. My thought process will now be something along the lines of "Ah, yes, Charles Dickens and oppression metaphors and literary criticism and- what the hell did Morgan write on that note? I can't wait 'till Sunday." (Not to say that the distraction isn't welcome. I'd take over Dickens any day. Especially this story. )

[indigokane]

great update!

but the cliffhanger? damn this is gonna be a long week!!

and girls like morgan make me sick. once they realize you've moved on THEN they want you back and will say and do anything to get what they want. YUCK!!

here's to hoping tara doesn't fall for the b.s., but obviously the angst machine is just warming up.

eagerly looking forward to more,

[beautiful_love]

Ok first off an update on this crappy day was exactly what I needed. A great pick me up. Secondly they are so freaking cute to each other. And third, Morgan is a complete and total bitch! What is she doing? She definitely needs to be put in her place with a swift quick in the ass! I'm sure you'll take care of it though. So I'll leave it in your very capable hands. Can't wait for the next update.

[nightmask]

yay update

I have a bad gut feeling that morgan is going to tell the paparazzi about Willow and Tara being together. I wonder what the note says, it can't be anything good if it's coming from morgan.

[wimpy0729]

Oh hell no! I can't believe skanky Morgan. They have rehab for so many things now, I think she needs to go to Stalker's Anonymous. She apparently has a google alert on Tara too, and she's watching everything they do. I seriously can't believe she said those things to Willow. Let it go already, you crazy bitch!! She keeps trying to play the guilt card, saying how it's affecting the team. Reality check, Miss Psycho Non-Pep Squad -- the team is fine, and you're the only one who has a problem with it. And, of course, the note. This girl is scaaarry, and there's no telling what she's capable of. I hope Tara has a body guard, cause I'm thinking she might need some protection with that nut on the loose.

Okay, rant over, for the moment. I did love how you described their after-talk lovemaking. It was absolutely beautiful. And Willow sneaking out in disguise was so funny. Hopefully they won't have to keep up the hiding too much longer. I have a feeling Tara meeting with Cyndi might have something to do with that, but of course, as usual, I could be totally wrong.

Now where's my old softball bat -- I'm going after Morgan. It's 34 oz and has some heft to it, so if I catch her, she's going down.

More very soon please, cause I can't hardly stand not knowing what was in the creepo's note.


Wimpy

[Finey_McFine]

Laragh:
Dibd again…damn! You’re on a roll!

I'm one of those bad people who uses that word in every day life lol.

I use it a lot more than I should as well. In fact, I never planned on using it here, it just flowed naturally, lol.

I love how every single one of your opening paragraphs pulls me in so deeply. It's like, straight away, I'm like 'yep, into this story, it's awesome'.

Hey…Thanks!!!

Can you still get Diet Coke with Lime in the states?

You know…I have no idea. I’ll have to check the next time I’m at the store.

PS I still want to know Tara's secrets. Teasing me with it in your response to feedback is mean

I’m just going to say this: I’ve never seen it done before. I mean it certainly could have been, but not in anything I’ve read.

Thanks Laragh!


zampsa19752001:

Yay for stealthy Willow making an escape from Tara's house... Aaaargh, I truly hate Bitch M even more than before.

Being the youngest, with older brothers, has taught Willow many stealthy things! Lol She is extremely easy to hate.

Thanks for reading!!!


Sierra:

It's not very nice from you to tease us like that! What did Morgan write??

Hahaha…sorry, but that’s what makes it fun. Right?


Thanks for the feedback!!!

Ariel:

Another great chapter! If Willow had your batting average she'd be the best hitter on the planet lol! Everything I love in your writing: romance, reality, and two grown women finding each other with humor, uncertainty, and great love.

I’m very glad to see that it’s coming off like it’s supposed to:) Thanks…that means a lot to me!!

A particularly effective touch, capturing that love where an image is caressed. Very sweet and lovely. Been there . . . love it!

I love that Tara took an incredibly geeky picture of Willow and swooned over it. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is! Can you imagine? ‘Oh Tara, can I see a picture of your girlfriend?’ LOL!!

Finally, Willow’s confrontation with the evil Morgan Le Freak was GREAT!!! I love seeing an adult Willow with the self-confidence to hold her ground and call ‘em as she sees ‘em

I’ve considered having them actually get into a locker room shoving match, but Willow has too much riding on her rep as a team leader. Although, if M keeps pushing, Tara might end up being the one to come unglued. We’ll have to wait and see!

P.S. There’s a new 12 Step Program PJA, Prune Juice Anonymous, for people struggling with PJ addiction. Remember, admitting it is the first step to recovery!

I just have one thing to say about this and it makes perfect sense. In the immortal words of Charlie Sheen: "I don’t believe myself to be an addict. I really don’t. I think that I just ignore or smash or finally dismiss a model that I think is rooted in vintage balderdash, you know? For lack of a better word."

Thanks for the feedback!


SMGOVAN:

Okay, Morgan needs a fucking beating

She certainly does.

Tara's name and the "C" word should never be used in the same sentence!

You got that right. I came close to letting Willow loose on her, but then there were no witnesses, etc. Can’t have sweet Willow booted from the team because of this skank!

I was full of rage after reading this update... and then I saw Ariel's feed back......

See above for my response to those egregious accusations!

Thanks for the feedback!


tarawillow4ever:

I too would like an extra update. I don't want to wait for another week to see what Morgan wrote. I have the sneaking suspicion that Morgan is going to "out" Willow as Tara's new 'gal pal' (always hated that tabloid moniker) UGH. I too hate Morgan.

Ask and you shall receive! Morgan may or may not out them. I still have a few tricks up my sleeve!


Thanks for the feedback!



WR/TM:

I so hate Morgan....please update soon I can't wait to see what happens and more....and if Morgan even things about hurting them I'm so going to kick her butt...well at least in my mind

You’ll have to take a number on the ass kicking, lol

Thanks for the feedback!


KnightlyLove:

Morgan's gonna tell. I'd put $10 on it.

Hmmmmm…..we shall see!

Thanks for the feedback!


Promthea128:

Is Tara setting up her coming out announcement? Or does it relate to her secret? Tara is the only one now that knows, so she wouldn't need to make it public, unless its something that's eating away at her in general, not just that she wants to be honest with Willow.

I’m not really giving this away, because it’s in the chapter below, but it’s about coming out. The ‘secret’ only she knows.

Morgan is such a bitch. Please don't let her, and her note cause to much drama? I'm figuring there will be enough with the Paparazzi, coming out, Sheila and "the secret."

Hahaha…I didn’t realize it until I read this exactly how many angsty situations are hanging in the air, lol. Fun!

Thanks as always for the feedback!!!


Silent_X:

Morgan makes me angry. What's even more upsetting is that there are real people who are actually like that. I know a few and they can mess things up very bad very fast. I'm glad Willow kicked her out.

Sadly, there’s too many of them! I know several and Morgan is a combo of them all.

This is one big cliffhanger and I have no doubt it will plague me for the rest of the week. And I have, like, 3 tests this week. My thought process will now be something along the lines of "Ah, yes, Charles Dickens and oppression metaphors and literary criticism and- what the hell did Morgan write on that note? I can't wait 'till Sunday." (Not to say that the distraction isn't welcome. I'd take over Dickens any day. Especially this story. )

Thanks!! This totally made my day when I read it!!

Thanks for the feedback!!


Indigokane:

but the cliffhanger? damn this is gonna be a long week!!

The week ends early today!! See below:)

girls like morgan make me sick. once they realize you've moved on THEN they want you back and will say and do anything to get what they want.

YES! And I known several people just like her. But in M’s defense, she has been pining over Willow for years and has been trying to get with her for a very long time. I think now she’s in the desperate mind set of; ‘If I can’t have her, them no one can.’ Scary.


Thanks for the feedback!


Beautiful_Love

Ok first off an update on this crappy day was exactly what I needed. A great pick me up. Secondly they are so freaking cute to each other. And third, Morgan is a complete and total bitch!

Bitch seems to be a very popular wood in the feedback this week, lol

Don’t worry, she will eventually get what’s coming to her!


Thanks for the feedback!!!


nightmask

I wonder what the note says, it can't be anything good if it's coming from morgan.

You’re right and see below!!

Thanks for the feedback!


wimpy0729

Oh hell no! I can't believe skanky Morgan.

Skanky: Second most popular word in this chapter’s feedback, LOL!!

I seriously can't believe she said those things to Willow. Let it go already, you crazy bitch!!

She is desperately desperate. In her mind, Tara is the enemy and she is protecting ‘her’ Willow. Yes, she is clearly off her rocker and unfortunately smart because NO ONE else has bared witness to her hijinx.

Reality check, Miss Psycho Non-Pep Squad -- the team is fine, and you're the only one who has a problem with it.

Hahahahahaha…this made me LOL!

This girl is scaaarry,

Now that you mention it, kinda reminding me of the movie ‘Single White Female.’

I did love how you described their after-talk lovemaking.

Almost forgotten with all the skanky-ness of the chapter

Now where's my old softball bat -- I'm going after Morgan. It's 34 oz and has some heft to it, so if I catch her, she's going down.

Hey…same as mine! That’s 68oz we can get her with!!

Thanks for the feedback!!!




[center]NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW[/center]

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: R (For Language)

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

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



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

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Happy Wednesday Kittens! Since so many of you asked for a quick update due to a certain ‘note’ and since you have been such loyal readers…here you go! xoxo

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

Chapter 22: Playing Fetch

Tara’s meeting with Cyndi was running longer than she’d planned and was going about as good as could be expected, considering the gravity of their discussion. Tara was Cyndi’s top client and the notion of Tara losing popularity did not sit well with her. She loved Tara like a daughter and had been involved with her career and personal life for the last seven years. Tara’s mother had hired Cyndi when Tara was 16, when her career was just starting to take off. Cyndi had been the one responsible for crafting Tara’s teen idol status and then guiding her through the transition to more adult roles. Cyndi was talented in what she did and because of Tara, had become one of Hollywood’s top publicists.

“Are you sure this is what you want to do?” Cyndi asked Tara for about the twentieth time that afternoon.

Tara was pacing around the tiny room, “Cyn, I need to come out. Regardless of whom I am dating, I can’t continue to live like this. It’s ridiculous, I’ve been seeing Willow for weeks and I can’t even take her out on a proper date,” Tara sighed deeply, exasperated, she plopped down on the couch, crossing her arms tightly across her chest, “All this hiding and sneaking around isn’t good for either one of us. Besides, with the Paps hanging around like they do, it’s only a matter of time and we may as well have a plan.”

“Tara, I just want you to be prepared for the fall out, personally and professionally. You’re role here won’t be affected because you just signed for another two seasons, but the film offers may dry up considerably.”

“I know and I really don’t care. It’s not about working or the money anymore.” Tara said, thinking about how all the sneaking around was affecting both she and Willow.

“I know that you don’t care, but ‘The Powers That Be,’ do care and if the ratings take a hit…they will not be pleased. To say the least.”

“What am I supposed to do?! Just stay in the closet and never live a normal life? Never get married or have kids? Jesus, this is NOT the 1940’s! I can’t make life decisions based on TV ratings!” Tara was up and pacing again.

Cyndi could see that Tara was starting to become unraveled, “Tara, honey, clam down…I’m not saying that you can’t come out or that it will completely ruin your career. I’m saying that you’re going to take a lot of heat. The show is based on you. Grant’s Park, you’re Laurel Grant and-”

Tara quickly cut her off, “I’m not her, she’s a character that I play. Period.”

“Yes, that’s how you see her, but not how the rest of America sees her. To them she is straight as an arrow and a permanent resident of boys-town. ALL of the characters you have played have been straight, including uber-hetero Lucy Vale,” for which you won several awards.”

“Why is it that a straight actor can play gay, but a gay actor can’t play straight?”

“I don’t know, it’s stupid, I agree.”

“Well, it’s time for that to change and if I have to be the one to do it…then so be it. I refuse to stay in the closet any longer.”

“Well, you’ll definitely be the biggest star at the top of their career to ever come out.”

“Ellen did it.”

“Ellen wasn’t the proverbial girl next door and there had been rumors for years. This will be a shock to most of mainstream America. Frankly, I’m surprised that you’ve been able to keep it secret as long as you have.”

“I never really tried to keep it a secret. I mean, I never had to go out of my way before; no one has ever bothered to ask. They all just assume I’m straight. I also never dated anyone that mattered this much,” Tara paused to collect her thoughts; “It’s hurting her; her relationships with friends and family, even if she won’t admit to it. I can’t hurt someone that I lo…that I care about so much.” With that, Tara stopped talking. Declaring her love for Willow to Cyndi first…not such a good idea.

Cyndi smiled, Tara’s slip confirmed her assumption that her client was in love, even if she couldn’t say it out loud yet.

“Ok, let me think this over a bit. I’d like to meet with you and Willow together, to discuss our options. From what you’ve told me, Willow will need some help protecting her reputation as well.”

“I don’t know if she can officially accept help from you, she’s a college athlete and I don’t know if it puts her amateur status in jeopardy or not. Plus she can’t afford you.”

“Don’t worry about that,” Cyndi said with a smirk, “I charge you enough as it is.” She said, laughing lightly.

“So true.” Tara chuckled; glad the tone of their conversation was lightening up.

Cyndi gathered her things and stood, preparing to leave. She embraced Tara, rubbing circles on her back to comfort the blonde. She hoped that the gesture would assure her that everything would be ok.

Cyndi pulled back and secured her bag on her shoulder, “I hope she’s worth it.”

Tara nodded and smiled sweetly, “She is.”

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

After the meeting, Tara was fairly exhausted and made a quick stop at her favorite coffee shop for a much-needed pick me up. From there she drove home to pack an overnight bag and pick up Ralphie, before heading over to Willow’s. When she arrived home, there were Paparazzi hovering like vultures at her gate. The photographers lurked in the driveway as she approached. They stepped back slightly only to allow her car to enter. Then they swooped in furiously snapping away at her every move.

The uncomplicated act of Tara reaching up to her visor and clicking the gate remote seemed to fascinate them. As if she were a toddler taking her first steps. She simply smiled and waved as she waited for the gate to open. Quickly entering, she slowed on the other side, watching to make sure no one entered behind her before the gate was fully closed. Once inside her fortress, Tara exhaled a deep breath and allowed the tension of the day to release its iron grip.

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

Forty-five minutes later Tara found herself in front of Willow’s apartment door, holding a white piece of notebook paper in her hand feeling waves of shock and anger coursing through her body. Her cheeks were flushed and her hands trembled. She knew she needed to calm down before knocking on the door, but her attempts to compose herself were futile at best. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes and knocked.

Willow was at the door in a matter of seconds, “Hey Baby! Wait, what’s wrong?” The redhead noticed immediately that all was not right with her girlfriend. Tara’s face was beet red, she was breathing heavily and her eyes were dark and narrow.

Ralphie was jumping and tugging at his leash. Tara let go allowing him to charge through Willow’s living room, making a beeline for Miss Kitty. He began barking furiously, as Miss Kitty arched her back and hissed. Neither Willow nor Tara made the slightest attempt to subdue the rowdy canine; Tara simply held up the paper that was tightly clinched in her fist.

“What the frilly heck is that?” Willow asked, as she took the paper and scanned it over. She stepped aside so that Tara could enter and closed the door behind her.

“I f-found it on your d-door just n-now.”

Willow hated that the note made Tara stutter. She hadn’t stuttered like that in quite awhile around her and Willow seriously wanted to hurt the person that caused it.

“That little bitch! If she were anymore of a bitch she’d have puppies! I am so gonna kick her ass!” Willow exclaimed, now seething with anger herself as she read the message out loud.

Dear Willow,

I just wanted to tell you again how much I enjoyed our afternoon together. It’s been a long time since we’ve been together like that and I didn’t realize how much I’d missed being close to you. The things you did to my body…you really rocked my world! I’m so glad that you asked me over today.

I can’t wait to see you later, call me as soon as she leaves.

Morgan
~xoxo


Willow looked up from the note and noticed the hurt in Tara’s eyes, “Tara..” Willow whispered, reaching out to cup the blonde’s cheek. Her blue eyes shining with unshed tears. Tara was visibly tired and stressed, this note left by Morgan being the final straw.

Tara closed her eyes and leaned into her lover’s soft touch. She turned her head, taking Willow’s hand in hers and placed a kiss on Willow’s palm. With one simple touch from her lover, Tara felt the anxiety and anger begin to melt away.

“Will, it’s ok.”

“No Tara, it’s not. She hurt your feelings and tried to come between us…again” The redhead grumbled, clearly still angry at the antics of her now ex-friend.

“Sweetie, she can’t hurt us unless we let her and we’re not gonna do that. Right?”

Willow simply nodded, in her mind she was thanking every deity known to man that Tara had returned her call earlier that afternoon. If she didn’t have that chance to tell Tara all about the argument with Morgan, she was sure that the note would have been disastrous. She had also voiced her suspicion that Morgan was the culprit behind the recent Paparazzi activity. Willow’s theory was that Morgan had been responsible for the Paparazzi at the stadium and for the ones that had stalked her after Tara had left for work. Even though she had no concrete proof, Willow was sure it was Morgan flexing her jealous muscles.

Willow wrapped her arms around Tara’s waist, pulling her close as Tara’s hands wrapped around Willow’s neck. Tara smiled sweetly, leaning in to kiss the redhead and then embracing her tightly. They remained like that for sometime before breaking apart so that Willow could check on dinner.

Tara excused herself to the bathroom to splash some cold water on her face, trying to regain some composure. She returned to find Willow on the floor, with her back against the couch, playing with Ralphie, while Miss Kitty lay on the couch behind Willow swishing her tail with conviction. Tara simply watched, not wanting to interrupt the adorable scene being played out in front of her. Willow tossed the ball for Ralphie and he retrieved it without question, but refused to release it without a fight. Every time Willow leaned forward to grab the ball, her hair swished behind her. This proved to be too much temptation for Miss Kitty who felt compelled to reach out and tangle her paws in Willow’s hair. Willow giggled and her eyes sparkled as she fussed at Miss Kitty.

Tara was entranced with watching Willow. Her heart swelled with affection for the redhead, so much that it was almost painful. She recounted her earlier conversation with Cyndi, where she had almost said the ‘L word’ without even realizing it. As she watched Willow, she wondered; was it that simple? Love, a concept that had eluded her for so long; now appearing out of no where and wrapping itself around her like a warm blanket. Things like this in life were not supposed to be simple and easy…but loving Willow was. It was the easiest thing Tara had ever done. The admission of those deep feelings, for the first time, caused Tara to become lightheaded. She leaned against the wall, glancing around Willow’s tiny space, feeling safe and loved; her eyes settling back on the object of her affection.

Willow stopped playing and slowly turned her head, and locked eyes with the blonde. Willow cocked her head and studied the blonde intently, wondering what she’d been thinking about that had caused her dreamy expression. Looking at the beautiful expression on Tara’s face set Willow’s senses on end. She rose slowly from the floor and began to move towards Tara. Willow felt like she was floating, not sure if her feet were even touching the ground; she took Tara’s face in her hands and kissed her deeply.

After several minutes Willow whispered, “I am, you know.”

“What?”

“Yours.”

[wolfsbane]

DIBS

D'aw, this was super cute. I'm glad that Tara and Willow are planning a plan of defense, because the Paps are certainly ready to attack. And Morgan is such a C-word. I know it's awful, but it's true....

I can't wait for Thanksgiving, and subsequent coupley goodness.

Great speedy update. Will there be another within the month?

[BuffyFan4ever]

Great Chapter.

Stupid Morgan.

Hope everything works out with Tara coming out.

This line was particularly funny:

“Why is it that a straight actor can play gay, but a gay actor can’t play straight?”

What about Neil Patrick Harris on How I Met Your Mother? Or is that the exception that proves the rule?

Update soon.

[mmmh-Hot-Sauce]

Aww such a sweet update. And boy is Morgan a bitch! I hope Willow knocks some sense into her the next time they see each other ... Can't wait for Thanksgiving and the big outing of Tara to the Family/America.

[nightmask]

Imma cut morgan she's evil D:<

I think it's great that Tara's taking the first step and deciding to come out to the public! It shows how much she really loves Willow and it gives her character a real sense of courage and belief in living their life how she should
I am so happy Tara didn't run away or freak out after she saw the note, but anyone who makes Tara stutter and feel like she's been lied to is not a very nice person.
I loved this update

[Grimm]

Finey,

Please stop playing with my emotions. You took me from happy (bcuz you updated early ), to rage (bcuz of the note that biyatch left ) and then to love (bcuz of the sweetness that is Willow and Tara ). This update has been an emotional roller coaster ...I think I need a nap .

Ps. Before the story is over, can you please have Willow tell Morgan to kiss the darkest part of her lilly white ass?!!?

[indigokane]

HOORAY for an early update!!!!

c-word is the only way to describe morgan. that is the coldest, lowest thing she could have done!!! coward.

but there were good things! Tara loving Willow enough to want to come out, trusting her enough that she didn't take off when she read the note, yup definate goodness.

great update!!

[KnightlyLove]

Oh my, I kept seeing people commenting on this sucker but I think the update date is wrong?
anyhow, amazing as always... that image of Willow is soo cute, and plus the whole business of Tara wanting to come out. It's great.

[Laragh]

Okay, that's it Morgan, we're gonna fight. I will take you, bitch. Grr

Anyway, this was great, I love how sweet they are with each other and that Tara's starting the coming-out process!

I'm still pissed at Morgan but it's hard to squee about the second half of that chapter!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... Thank goddess for Tara answering Willow's call and hearing about Bitch M's bitch-y attempt to "win back" Willow so the "love" note didn't hurt as much... I'm really glad that Tara is planning to come out with her publicist, I hope she tells Willow so they can plan it together... Big yay for them both realizing that they truly love eachother even though they haven't said those 3 magical words... Yet...

[wimpy0729]

Well, I can't express how thankful I am that Tara returned Willow's call and had the scoop on what went on with Morgan. Although it did hurt Tara, at least it didn't have her desired outcome. Willow needs to hold onto that note, and any other type of proof that she can get against Psycho Morgan just in case she needs it, you know, for the restraining order. Man, the steam is still coming out of my ears.

I'm really glad Tara talked to Cyndi, and it seemed to go pretty well considering everything. This is HUGE. I like how Tara lets her know that she won't let things like ratings control her life decisions. Cyndi seems pretty cool and I hope she can help her deal with whatever comes after the news comes out. I also like how Cyndi is willing to help Willow with her situation too. Tara brings up a valid point about Willow's amateur status, etc. Oh, there is just so much touched on here, it's soo exciting, and I can't wait to see what happens with it all. Now I'm curious whether Willow needs to talk to her coach about everything too, at least give her a heads up about everything. Oh, now I'm wondering if Tara's writers will make a change in her character, and make her not-so-hetero after all, kind of like Ellen's Puppy episode. At least I think that's what they called it. It's good to know that she still has 2 years on her contract anyway, and I'm curious to see how her audience is going to react. Tara's right, it's not the 1940s and people should be more accepting. At least I hope so anyway.

I wonder how Willow is going to handle the Morgan thing. Many scenarios going through my mind right now, but I guess I just have to wait and see. Oh, the agony of the waiting!

The ending was so perfect. Willow could tell by Tara's look just what she was thinking, and she was thinking the same thing. Loved it!


Wimpy