The Kitten, the Witches and the Bad Wardrobe - Willow & Tara Forever

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 62 Updated 07/26/2019
PostPosted: Tue Sep 10, 2013 2:09 pm 
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4. Extra Flamey
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Joined: Sun May 19, 2013 8:04 pm
Posts: 226
Topics: 2
Location: Wisconsin
Title: Meant To Be
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these Characters, just borrowed them and wish I did own them.
Rating: PG-13 - NC-17
Author: Branny72
Feedback: Pretty please…it helps me improve

Summary: AU – Willow is graduating from college at UC Sunnydale and has accepted a job with a company that is new in town. One night, while out with some friends Willow sees an attractive blonde who turns her life upside down. (No Vamps, No Hellmouth, No Magic...)

Authors Notes: Thank you to Willara4ever for all your help with this story. I appreciate your reading it and helping me with the idea.
=========================

Chapter 1

Willow walked along the beach staring out at the sunset she was lost in thought.

"I can't believe I am graduating from college in a week. I really can't believe that Buffy is graduating with me," she thought to herself as a smile crept across her face.

Both girls had gone to Sunnydale High School and then UC Sunnydale for college. They had been roommates all four years. Buffy had dated several guys, but none of them were "the one" she admitted. Willow on the other hand had dated Oz when she started college, but after he cheated on her Willow decided to focus on her schooling instead of setting herself up for that kind of pain again. She told herself she wasn't against love, she was against the pain that inevitably comes with falling in love.

"Hey Will," called a voice from behind her. Turning Willow saw it was Buffy.

"Hey Buffy. What brings you out to the beach?"

"I was trying to find you actually."

"I just wanted to get out and clear my head for a bit. Was there something you needed?" asked Willow.

"You got a call from that new company that just moved their headquarters here. That one you were drooling over last week. I thought you would want to know."

"Really? Did they say what they wanted?"

"No, they just said that they had heard about you and are interested in talking to you about your plans after graduation. I got the number to the guy who called and assured him you would call tomorrow."

"Wow, I wonder what they want with me though?"

"Seriously Willow, you have somehow managed to get a better than 4.0 GPA in both high school and college. You know that techy stuff better than anyone here including the teachers. I bet they want to offer you some cushy high paying job."

"Buffy, no matter how good you are in companies like that never start you out in the good jobs, you have to work your way up," laughed Willow.

"What about in that movie we saw last week, she got hired in as a high level manager right away."

"Yeah, that was a movie not reality. Come on, lets head back to the room and you can help me get my résumé together."

The two walked back to the dorms in silence, both lost in thought. Once they arrived at Stevenson Hall they ran into Dawn, Buffy's sister and her best friend Janice. Dawn was just out of High School and set to start at UC Sunnydale in the fall, her friend Janice was going out-of-state for college so the pair were trying to spend as much time together as they could.

"Hey Dawnie," said Willow as they reached the pair.

"Hey Willow," smiled Dawn.

"What brings you to our neck of the woods?" asked Buffy.

"Janice and I were hoping we could talk you two into going to a party tomorrow night at the beach with us."

"What's the catch," Buffy asked cautiously.

"There is no catch. We just thought it might be fun for us all to go out. We aren't going to have many more opportunities to do that with Janice abandoning me at the end of summer."

"No guilt right Dawn?" laughed Janice.

"None, just bitterness and maybe jealousy," replied Dawn.

"Can we get back to you tomorrow? Willow has to call a potential job place back and once she does that we'll know if she has an interview or not. That way we know how much partying we can do."

"Sure," Dawn and Janice said in unison.

"What company?" asked Janice.

"It is that new one that just opened its headquarters here in Sunnydale, TDM Enterprise. And they were hunting her down, she never applied with them," said Buffy.

"Way to go Willow," exclaimed Dawn. "Call me tomorrow and let me know how the call goes and about the party then. We're headed to that movie Travis said we just had to see."

"Well, be careful there are a lot of freaks out near there," said Willow.

"We will be," said Dawn as her and Janice headed off.

Willow and Buffy made their way up to their box-infested room. The pair had been packing since they had to move out before graduation. Willow and Buffy decided that they were going to continue to live together once they got out of school since neither of them had a significant other and they had grown used to the others odd quirks and habits.

Willow and sat down at the desk and opened her laptop to make sure that her résumé was in order. Buffy decided that the best way she could help the redhead would be to do some more packing and try not to interrupt Willow.

=========================

Morning came quick for the residents of Stevenson Hall room 214. Buffy, who was always an early riser and had gotten up and already had her morning run, showered, dressed, and then went and got mocha's for both her and Willow.

Willow smelled the mocha, slowly sat up, and looked over at the perky blonde grinning widely at her.

"Buffy, do you really need to be so cheery in the morning?" she asked.

"Come on Willow, it is a great day out," laughed Buffy at her friends aversion to early mornings. "You know that any job you get is going to start in the morning, right?"

"Yeah, I know, but that doesn't mean I have to like it," Willow said downing the mocha.

"Well, I'm sure as long as they have coffee or mocha's you will be fine."

"I hope so!"

"So, what time are you going to call about that job?"

"Buffy, I've been up for maybe six minutes, give me some time to let the coffee kick in," said Willow glancing at the clock. "Hell, it isn't even 8 yet."

"Fine, why is it that I seem more excited about this job prospect than you do?"

"It isn't that I'm not excited, I'm nervous. A nervous Willow is a spazzy Willow and I don't want to have that happen when I'm on the phone with them."

"OK that I understand. Do you want me in the room or to leave the room when you call?"

"You can stay, it might be easier for me if you're here to keep me calm," Willow smiled sheepishly.

"Whatever is best for you?"

"Thanks Buffy! I knew there was a reason you were still my best friend," Willow said as she tossed a pillow at the blonde.

"HEY!"

=========================

Finally, at 8:30 Willow knew she had to call, knew that calling early is one of the best ways to make a good impression.

"TDM Enterprise, how may I direct your call," came the voice on the other end of the phone.

"I'm returning a call from Donald Maclay," said Willow.

"May I tell him who is calling?"

"Willow Rosenberg," said the redhead as she felt Buffy's hand on her shoulder for support.

"One moment please Ms. Rosenberg."

After about a minute Willow heard the clicking of the call being transferred and then it started to ring.

"Hello Ms. Rosenberg, thank you so much for calling me back," said the confident and deep voice from the other end of the phone.

"H-Hello Mr. Maclay," Willow stammered out.

"Please call me Donnie, Mr. Maclay is my father and I know that is a cliché joke, but it is true as well," said Donnie hoping to diffuse some of the girl on the other end of the phones nerves.

"Thank you, Donnie."

"I'm sure you are wondering why I called you yesterday."

"Yes, it definitely intrigued me."

"Well, when we open a division or office we look to the local community for talent and in doing our research in the Sunnydale area your name came up. We, ok, I am hoping that I can convince you to come in and meet with me to discuss you joining TDM Enterprise in our IT-Security and Web Design department."

"I see, well, I don't see what it would hurt for us to talk," said Willow as a smirk started to play across her face.

"Fantastic. I am willing to work around your schedule, as I know you have finals and graduation to contend with, I remember how hectic that was for me."

"I actually only have one final left and that isn't for another couple of days. I am free to meet any time that works for you."

"That is fantastic Ms. Rosenberg," said Donnie.

"Please call me Willow."

"Ok, Willow how would 1 pm today work for you? Is that too soon?"

"That works fine for me."

"Great, when you get here just tell the receptionist you are here to meet with me and she will show you up to my office. I look forward to speaking with you."

"Thank you, I will see you at 1 pm today."

"Oh, Willow, would it be possible for you to email me a copy of your résumé before you come in?"

"I'll send it now," said the redhead as she attached the résumé to an email. "What is your email address?"

"That may help, my email address is ."

"Great, thank you and I will see you at 1 pm."

=========================

Donnie hung up the phone, pressed the intercom, and advised his secretary to call and have his sister come to his office when she was free. He then sat back and contemplated his conversation with Willow and the information that he had heard about her. After receiving her résumé he printed a copy and read through all her accomplishments.

A knock at the door brought Donnie out of his thoughts.

"Hey big brother, you wanted to see me?" said Tara as she poked her head into his office.

"Yeah, I wanted to get your thoughts on someone who I'm interviewing this afternoon."

"Sure, what do we know about the person and where do you want them to go?" asked Tara as she took the printed copy of Willow's resume and read it.

"Well, she graduating from UC Sunnydale next week. She has had a 4.0 GPA since she was in Kindergarten."

"Seriously?" asked Tara wondering if her brother was joking with her.

"Yes, I am serious."

"I'm not sure if that is impressive or creepy."

"I had the same thought."

"Have you talked to her at all?"

"I got off the phone with her about fifteen minutes ago. She has a professional demeanor and I really think she will fit into the IT-Security and Web Design are perfectly."

"Well, from reading her resume I would agree with you."

"I was hoping that is what you would say. If it goes well I think I may offer her the job, if that is OK with you."

"Hey, you run the technology side of this company, I do the marketing."

"Yes, but I trust your gut on making decisions like this," he smiled warmly at his sister.

"Well, if she interviews as well as she looks on paper I say hire her without a second guess. Let me know how it goes, I have a meeting with dad and the board on our next campaign in a few minutes."

"How did you get that unlucky?"

"I have thoughts on it, but nothing that I can confirm," said Tara laughing

"Well, good luck. I'll let you know how it goes with Willow," said Donnie. "Do you have plans tonight?"

"Nope, what did you have in mind?"

"I heard of this place called The Bronze, want to check it out with me?" asked Donnie.

"I'd love to big brother. I'll text you when I get done with work and we'll go from there."

"OK, have a great day Sis," Donnie said as he gave his younger sister a hug.

"You know hugging me isn't very professional," she joked.

"No, it isn't but then again I'm not the poster child for professionalism that is all you."

"I'll talk to you later," said Tara as she walked out of her brothers' office and headed to her meeting.

=========================

Willow hung up the phone and let out a giddy squeal.

"So, does that mean it went well?" asked Buffy.

"I have an interview at 1 pm today."

"OK, so was he nice?"

"Donnie was really nice; I actually think that this will be the first time that I'm not nervous, well not overly nervous going into an interview."

"Donnie huh?"

"Well, he said that I should call him that. Buffy, what should I wear?"

"Well, you have that one deep green business suit, or you can borrow my black one."

"Do you think the green one would be ok?" asked Willow.

"I think it will be perfect Will, plus it shows off your eyes too."

"Yes, because I'm going hoping to find someone to date Buffy. I don't care if it shows off my eyes or not, I just need to make sure that it will look professional."

"Yes, it looks professional and there is nothing wrong with keeping your eyes open for a date."

"I gave love and dating a shot, it wasn't for me," said the redhead thinking back to her relationship with Oz.

"Willow that was one experience, albeit a bad one, but how do you know that the right person isn't out there for you?"

"The right person for me is out there, yes, but I'm not looking for that part of my life right now. I'm graduating next week, I want to put some of that knowledge to work before I go and become all domesticated."

"I don't think that you ever have to worry about being domesticated Will. You burn water without trying," laughed the blonde.

"Keep it up missy, we both know who will be doing the cooking when we move into our apartment."

"Crap," mumbled Buffy as Willow laughed.

"OK, what do you say we go get a couple more mocha's and then come back, I'll print out my résumé and then you can laugh at me while I get ready for my interview?"

"Sounds like a plan to me," said Buffy and the two-headed out of the dorms to get more coffee.

=========================

"Hey Faith," Donnie said peeking his head into the corner office.

"What's up Donnie," asked the brunette.

"Well, I have someone coming in to interview today at 1 pm and I have a feeling that I'm going to want to hire them on the spot. I was wondering if I could get the blessing of the head of HR to do so ahead of time."

"Is she hot?"

"What? No, well, I actually don't know and that isn't why I would be hiring her. I was simply going off her résumé."

"Hey, can't blame a girl for asking," laughed Faith.

"Except if that girl is the head of HR, and then you have to question some things," Donnie said raising an eyebrow.

"Oh come on, you know I never let anything other than what is best for the business guide my decisions. Now, hand over the résumé that I know you have in your hands so that I can see if I will give my blessing or not."

Donnie smiled and handed over a copy of the résumé that Willow had emailed him. He watched as Faith read it over and raised an eyebrow.

"Is she for real?"

"Yeah, I pursued her, and all the people I've talked to have said that if we don't grab her the company that does is going to demolish us."

"Where are you thinking of putting her?"

"Well, I'd like to put her in IT-Security and Web Design and maybe as an Analyst or Specialist."

"See if you can start her as a Security & Design Analyst and see if starting in the mid to a bit higher than mid-range for the salary. She is fresh out of college and I don't want to have her break the bank right out of the gates."

"OK, I can do that. Thanks for taking the time to take a look at this and for giving me the HR blessing."

"Hey, she looks like she'd be amazing for the company; I would be an idiot not to give my blessing," laughed Faith.

=========================

Willow arrived at the newly constructed glass building. She had watched them building it, but she hadn't seen it close up. She was in shock at how massive it felt when you were standing at the base of the building. She entered the doors and headed towards the reception desk.

"Hi, Willow Rosenberg, I have a 1 pm meeting with Donnie Maclay," she said.

"Yes, welcome Ms. Rosenberg. Let me show you up to Mr. Maclay's office," said the receptionist coming from behind the counter and heading over to a cluster of elevators.

"This place is huge," Willow said with a smile.

"Wait until you see the view from upstairs," said the receptionist as they boarded the elevator and went up to the 8th floor.

"Wow," said Willow under her breath.

"I agree," said the receptionist as she led Willow down the hall to a waiting room. "Please have a seat and Mr. Maclay with be right with you."

"OK, thank you," said Willow.

Willow sat down, took in the elegant decor of the room and of the building, she admired that the company cared about the impression they made.

She saw a man with honey blonde hair and a brunette woman walking her way.

"I'll catch up with you later," said the brunette as she smiled in Willow's direction.

"OK, thanks again Faith," said the man before turning to her. "Hi, I'm Donnie Maclay, you must be Willow Rosenberg."

"Yes, it is a pleasure to meet you," said Willow as she stood and took the hand that he was offering her.

"Please, follow me into my office and we can talk," said Donnie.

The pair walked down two offices and entered into a room that would have easily fit two of Willows dorm rooms in it.

"Have a seat. May I get you something to drink?" asked Donnie.

"No, thank you," said Willow.

"Then I guess we should get this interview underway."

"Yes, sir," said Willow as she handed over a copy of her résumé printed on expensive looking paper.

"You have a very impressive résumé, I'm curious on what made you choose Computer Science," asked Donnie.

"It was something that honestly excited me and allowed me freedom and creativity. I'm not good with art, or music, but I can create just about anything with a computer."

"That is the most honest answer I've ever gotten on that question. Willow, I'm going to save us both a lot of time. TDM wants and needs your kind of talent to remain secure and competitive in the market today and going forward. I'm not going to tell you that we are the best place to work or that we don't ever make mistakes, that just isn't possible. We do strive to make the company the best we can. My dad created this company in our basement when my sister and I were little. He has nurtured it, nurtured us, and made this company what it is today. I hope someday when he turns this company over to my sister and I that we can make him proud. The one way I know to do that is to hire extraordinary people and you fit that bill. The woman you saw me walking with was the head of our HR department. I was meeting with her to get her blessing to offer you a Security & Design Analyst position with us today, here and now."

"Wow, I'm not sure what to say," said Willow.

"Well, if I might offer a suggestion, please say yes, you'll take the job."

Willow and Donnie laughed as he offered her the paperwork showing the salary, benefits, and job description. Willow read it and looked up at him with a smile.

"Yes," she said with a smile.

"Great, I know that we can take this company far as a team. Would two weeks be too soon for us to look for you to start?"

"I think that would be perfect. I will be able to go through graduation and then move into my new place."

"Well, I just need for you to sign and date the offer letter here and it will be official."

Willow took the pen that Donnie was offering her and signed the paperwork. Once that was complete Donnie shook her hand and welcomed her to the company.

"I forgot to ask, do you have any questions for me?"

"I just have one and I'm a bit embarrassed to ask it, but what does the TDM stand for in TDM Enterprise?" asked Willow.

"You have nothing to be embarrassed about, most people have no clue what it stands for," laughed Donnie.

Willow noticed he had a warm, genuine and comforting laugh.

"It stands for Tara Donnie Maclay. It is my sister and I. Dad was really creative at the time."

"I think it is a great idea and way for him to honor you both and the legacy he wants to leave you," said Willow realizing she was probably reading more into this than needed.

"I never thought about it like that, and I think you are correct, it is a very great honor," smiled Donnie. "Are there any other questions?"

"Not that I can think of at the moment," said Willow.

"Well, it looks like a gorgeous day out, so let me walk you out and you can enjoy the rest of your day. If you come up with any other questions, please call me or drop me an email. We'll be in touch before your start date and we'll get your first day details squared away," said Donnie handing Willow a copy of the offer letter and his business card.

"Thank you," said Willow.

=========================

"Hey Dawn," Buffy said as her sister answered the phone.

"Hey Buffy!"

"I told you I would give you a call and let you know about the party tonight. I figured I'd do it now instead of pacing while Willow is at her interview."

"So, are you guys coming tonight?"

"Yep, we just need to know where to meet you two and what time."

"How about we swing by your dorm at 6:30 and then we can grab a bite before heading down to the beach?"

"Sounds like a plan."

"Do you think that Willow is going to get the job she is interviewing for?"

"They would be stupid not to hire her," said Buffy.

"Well, I have to go; I'll see you and Willow tonight then."

"OK, we'll see you then."

Buffy and Dawn hung up and Buffy went back to pacing and waiting for her best friend and roommate to return from her interview.

=========================

Donnie escorted her to the entrance, they shook hands again, Willow left, and Donnie turned to see Faith standing there with a smirk on her face.

"What is that smirk about Faith?"

"Not a thing Donnie. Do we have a new hire?"

"Yes we do, and I have to say that I think she is going to go pretty far with this company."

"Well, that is good because we are going to need some good strong ones in the future," said Faith.

"I agree. Have you seen Tara recently?"

"I think she is still in that meeting with your dad and the board," Faith said with a grimace.

"That isn't good. She and I discussed going out tonight; I bet she will be too tired to go out with me tonight."

"Well, if she bails on you, give me a call and I'll go out with you."

"I just may take you up on that. Oh and here is the signed offer letter for you," Donnie said as he handed the signed paperwork to Faith.

=========================
TBC…
=========================

_________________
~ Branny72
I found younger-me still exists in the archives as SlayerTazz...
Mending Fences | The One Where Everyone Has a Go |Actions and Consequences | Meant To Be


Last edited by branny72 on Fri Jul 26, 2019 3:56 pm, edited 63 times in total.

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be
PostPosted: Thu Sep 12, 2013 4:13 am 
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Nice start. I'll be interested to see how they meet and get together. I can't tell that Willow is out to herself or anyone so it could be a shock for her.

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be
PostPosted: Fri Sep 13, 2013 9:26 pm 
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Liking the story so far.


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be
PostPosted: Sat Sep 14, 2013 3:13 pm 
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Good start :)


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be
PostPosted: Sat Sep 14, 2013 7:07 pm 
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4. Extra Flamey
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Joined: Sun May 19, 2013 8:04 pm
Posts: 226
Topics: 2
Location: Wisconsin
JustSkipIt: Glad you are liking it so far. I hope you enjoy Chapter 2! :grin

love_2003: Glad you are liking it after the first chapter. Thanks for reading!! :glasses

bluepaintbox: Thanks for reading!! :sigh


=====================================
Title: Meant To Be
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these Characters, just borrowed them and wish I did own them.
Rating: PG-13 - NC-17
Author: Branny72
Feedback: Pretty please…it helps me improve

Summary: AU – Willow is graduating from college at UC Sunnydale and has accepted a job with a company that is new in town. One night, while out with some friends Willow sees an attractive blonde who turns her life upside down. (No Vamps, No Hellmouth, No Magic...)

Authors Notes: Thank you to Willara4ever for all your help with this story. I appreciate your reading it and helping me with the idea.
=====================================

Chapter 2

Willow arrived back at the dorm room to find Buffy sitting on her bed bouncing up and down with a goofy grin on her face.

“Hey Buff, whatcha doing?” asked Willow playfully.

“Don’t ask trivial questions. I want details! How’d it go? What is that place like inside?”

“Do I get to come into the room and get changed first?”

“No,” said Buffy.

“Come on, you know how much I hate to wear monkey clothes,” pouted Willow.

“Fine, but just so you know, Dawn and Janice will be here at 6:30 and we’re going to go get a bite to eat and then head to the party.”

“Sounds like a good plan,” said Willow.

Willow changed out of her suit, into a pair of fitted black jeans and a green baby doll t-shirt, she grabbed a black sweater to take with for when the temperature goes down.

“OK, now that you are changed will you please tell me what happened?” asked Buffy.

“Buffy, that building is amazing! I mean from the outside it looks incredible, but once you get inside it is even more impressive.”

“Wow, but enough about the building, what happened in the interview?”

“Well, I went in and they took me up to the 8th floor, the view of the city was incredible. Donnie and I went into his office, which is about twice the size of our room. He explained to me that they look for local talent when they open a new office and that when they were doing their research my name came up and I was highly recommended.”

“That is so cool, Will,” interrupted Buffy.

“Yeah, then he told me that he thought I would be a great fit for their company and offered me an Security & Design Analyst position in their IT-Security and Web Design department.”

“Wait, they offered you the job outright?”

“Yep, and it was a pretty great offer. Especially since I am just graduating,” smiled Willow.

“So, did you take it?”

“Oh yes, I took it and I start in two weeks.”

“We are so celebrating tonight,” said Buffy. “I am so proud of you Willow.”

“Thanks Buffy. I’m really excited, I have a job for after I graduate,” beamed Willow.

“So, where do you want to eat tonight? I think as a congratulatory dinner you should get to choose.”

“What about we go to Angels, we haven’t been there in a while and the food is good.”

“And we don’t have to dress up,” added Buffy.

“It seems like we have a plan; now we're just waiting for Dawn and Janice to arrive.”

Willow and Buffy did some packing before they put the final touches on their hair and makeup and waited for Dawn and Janice to arrive.

=====================================

“Hey Donnie,” said Tara looking a bit worn out from her meeting as she poked her head into her brothers office.

“How did the meeting go Sis,” asked Donnie motioning for her to take a seat across the desk from him.

“Well, we have a plan of action, now I just need to figure out how to make it work.”

“Well I have no doubt that you will figure it out. You are the brainy type,” Donnie said with a smile.

“Thanks. How did your interview go?”

“I hired her on the spot and she starts in two weeks.”

“Wow, and you got Faith to sign off on it?” asked Tara.

“You read the résumé, would you have passed that kind of talent up?” he asked.

“No, I definitely wouldn’t pass that up. So, what are the plans for tonight?”

“Well, I was thinking we could go out and get a bite to eat and then head to ‘The Bronze’ and see what it has to offer. Are you still feeling up for this?”

“Yeah, I need to blow off some steam after that meeting anyway. Should we invite Faith? Since we are all new to the town, it might be nice to learn it together,” suggested Tara.

“Sure, let me give her a call and see if she is up for it,” said Donnie reaching for his phone and calling Faith.

Tara listened to her brothers’ side of the conversation and picked up that Faith was happy to join them and that they were going to go to some nearby restaurant and then hit the club.

“Well, why do you go home and get changed and I’ll pick you up and then we’ll go get Faith,” offered Donnie.

“Sounds great to me, I’ll see you in an hour or so?”

“I’ll be there.”

With that, Tara left Donnie’s office and went home to get ready for the night out.

=====================================

Dawn and Janice arrived at Stevenson Hall a few minutes before 6:30.

“Hey Dawnie, hi Janice,” Willow said greeting them at the door.

“Hiya Wills,” said Dawn as she bounced into the room.

“So, dinner ideas,” asked Janice.

“Willow decided that we are going to Angels.”

“Oh yeah, why does Willow get to decide,” asked Dawn.

“Because tonight we are celebrating,” Willow beamed.

“The interview went well?” asked Janice.

“Of course it did, it went so well that they offered her a job on the spot,” smiled Buffy.

“That is fantastic Willow,” said Dawn wrapping her arms around the older girl.

“Congratulations Willow,” said Janice.

“This definitely calls for Angels for dinner,” said Dawn.

“Well, let’s get out of here and get some food.”

Willow grabbed the sweater she pulled out earlier when she had changed after her interview and the four headed out for dinner and partying.

=====================================

Donnie pulled up to The Chosen Gardens apartment complex where Tara lived. It was a modest complex, but perfectly fine for what Tara needed. It had a pool available for the residents, a state of the art work out facility complete with hot tub and sauna, and a great clubhouse. Donnie knew that none of those things mattered to his sister; it was the view of the nature preserve and meadow that convinced her to move there.

Donnie made his way to apartment 484 and knocked on the door.

“Hi Donnie, come in I’m almost ready,” Tara said showing her brother into the apartment. She was wearing a pair of faded blue jeans, a blue cotton button down shirt, and she had her hair down.

“You look great Tara. You are going to have your pick of dates,” said Donnie.

“Thank you, but I’m not interested in dating yet. You don’t look too shabby yourself,” Tara said.

“Thanks,” Donnie said checking his refection out in the patio door. He wore a pair of dark blue jeans, and a grey t-shirt with a blue button down shirt over it.

“I’m set, let’s go get Faith and get this night started,” Tara said with a smile.

“Tara, I don’t want to spoil the night, but you and Erin broke up over a year ago, you need to move past it,” her brother said with a great deal of concern.

“I know perfectly well how long ago it was Donnie, we just moved here. I’d like to get to know some people and the area before I consider dating again,” Tara said trying to reassure her brother.

“Just promise me that you aren’t closing yourself off to the possibility of love.”

“I promise,” Tara said as she pulled her brother into a hug.

“Ok, now, let’s go get Faith and have some fun,” Donnie said as they locked up Tara’s apartment and headed down to his car.

=====================================

As they walked up to the restaurant, Buffy saw her ex-boyfriend at the door.

“Hi Buffy,” he said.

“Hi Angel, is it packed tonight or can we get a table,” she asked.

“You know that you guys are always welcome and I will always find a table. Tonight it isn’t too busy though,” said Angel as he escorted the group into the restaurant and over to a table near the window.

“Thanks Angel,” said Willow.

“Anytime Willow,” he said with a smile.

“We’re celebrating Angel,” said Dawn.

“What are you celebrating?”

“Willow got a job at TDM Enterprise today,” Dawn said with a grin.

“Congratulations Willow! How about I have the chef make your favorite,” offered Angel.

“If it isn’t too much trouble since it isn’t on the regular menu,” said Willow sheepishly.

“Of course it isn’t. What can I get the rest of you?”

After placing their order, the four talked and laughed. After their food came they ate and then headed off to the beach for their party.

=====================================

Donnie and Tara picked up Faith and drove around looking for a place that looked good to eat.

“What about that place just ahead?” suggested Faith.

“OK, I heard a couple of people earlier this week saying how great the food was,” said Tara.

“Can’t hurt to try it,” said Donnie parking the car and opening the door for the other two to get out.

“Hi and welcome to Angels, just three of you tonight?” asked Angel.

“Yes, please,” said Donnie as Angel led them to the table that had recently been vacated by Buffy and her group.

“Someone will be with you shortly; can I get you a drink in the meantime?”

“I’ll have an iced tea,” said Tara.

“I’ll have the same,” said both Donnie and Faith.

“Great three iced teas coming up. Oh and I’m Angel, this is my place, if you need anything, please let me know.”

“Thanks,” said Donnie. “We’re new in town so we’re just trying to learn our way. We were thinking about checking out The Bronze tonight, is it a good place?”

“It is a great club. My son Connor is the manager there,” said Angel. “If you don’t mind me asking, what brings you to Sunnydale?”

“I’m the head of HR at TDM Enterprise,” started Faith.

“Ah, well then let me welcome you and say that your company just hired one of the best people I know today.”

“Interesting, and who might that be?” asked Donnie.

“Willow Rosenberg,” Angel said.

“I interviewed her this afternoon actually. Hi, I am Donnie Maclay and this is my sister Tara. Our dad is the owner of the company.”

“Wow, it is a pleasure to meet you all,” said Angel.

“How do you know Willow, if you don’t mind me asking,” said Faith.

“I used to date a friend of hers. You actually just missed her; she was in here having a celebratory dinner. I’ll let you enjoy your dinner. It was great to meet you and I look forward to seeing you in here more often,” Angel said with a smile as he left them to their dinner.

“Seems like your new hire doesn’t just impress on paper,” said Faith.

“Well, I guess we have some confirmation that she is worth what we offered her,” Donnie said laughing.

They ate their dinner and then headed off to check out The Bronze.

=====================================

“I can’t believe how lame that party was,” said Dawn as they walked away from the beach.

“Now what do you want to do,” asked Willow.

“We could check out The Bronze,” offered Janice.

“Can’t be any worse than that party we were just at,” said Buffy.

“Cool, The Bronze it is,” said Dawn steering them down the road towards the club.

=====================================

“Wow, this place is pretty nice,” said Tara as she looked around the bar.

“Yeah, they have a stage for bands, a dance floor, some pool tables and dart boards over there, and check out that upper area,” said Faith.

“First round is on me,” said Donnie.

“Why don’t we go find a table upstairs,” suggested Tara.

“Ok, why don’t you two go get a table and I’ll be right up with the drinks.”

“Works for me Donnie,” said Faith taking Tara’s hand and pulling her through the crowd and upstairs.

“How about that table over there,” Tara said pointing to one that overlooked the lower level.

“Perfect,” said Faith as they sat down.

“I like this place,” Tara said looking around.

“Yeah, so T, before Donnie gets up here,” started Faith.

“What’s up?”

“A new town; a new start?”

“You sound like Donnie,” Tara said.

“We love and worry about you. Tara, you have been my best friends for ten years now. I know that Erin hurt you, but it is time to move on. You deserve happiness,” said Faith.

“You really sound like Donnie. I know how long it has been, but we just got here and I want a chance to get to know the area, the town, and some people before I go opening myself up to anything like that again.”

“But you will do it?”

“Yes, I will not turn into a cat hoarding spinster that calls you when fluffy has hairballs,” laughed Tara.

“Wow T, way to spoil the serious heartfelt moment.”

“Hey, we are here to have fun, not have the heartfelt deep discussions.”

“I come barring drinks,” Donnie said setting the drinks on the table and joining the two women.

=====================================

“Hey look, our couch is open,” said Dawn as everyone made their way over to the couch and took a seat.

The server made their way over, took the groups order, and brought their round of drinks.

“Ok, so we are celebrating tonight, that means tonight we dance,” said Buffy as she pulled her sister out on to the dance floor.

“What do you say Willow, should we join them?” asked Janice.

“Well, do we have to dance close to them? I mean look at Buffy, she looks like she is trying to stake someone,” laughed Willow.

“No, we don’t have to dance near them or acknowledge we know them while we are on the dance floor.”

“Ok, if that is the case then, let’s go!”

Willow and Janice made their way to the dance floor and away from Dawn and Buffy. Connor was out on the dance floor moving between Willow and Janice and Dawn and Buffy. He was glad that Buffy didn’t treat him differently after she broke up with his dad.

=====================================

From upstairs the trio watched the crowd dancing enjoying themselves.

“The guy with the light brown hair, that is Connor Angel’s son,” said Donnie.

“How do you know that?” asked Tara.

“I met him when I was getting the drinks.”

“I still don’t think Angel looked old enough to have a grown kid,” said Faith.

“Everyone looks to be having fun on the dance floor,” said Tara.

“Ok, someone has to dance with me,” said Faith.

“I’m game,” Donnie said as he jumped up.

“Tara?”

“I’m going to sit this one out, but I will dance yet tonight,” said Tara fending off the glares from the others.

“Donnie, you heard her.”

“I did, so you will dance Sis,” said Donnie dragging Faith down to the dance floor.

Tara watched as her brother and her best friend hit the dance floor. As she was watching a flash of red caught her eye and she turned and saw Connor dancing with the most attractive redhead she had ever seen. Tara was transfixed.

“Oh now that is a truly beautiful sight. If that is what Sunnydale has to offer, I am going to love it here,” she thought as she continued to watch.

=====================================

Willow was dancing with Connor when she felt as though someone was watching her. She looked around and as she scanned the balcony area, she saw a beautiful blonde looking down at the crowd.

“Wow, that is a magnificent and beautiful sight,” thought Willow.

“Hey Willow, did you find a hottie?” asked Connor.

“What?”

“Did you find a hottie? You know, someone to date instead of this nun thing you have had going since you and Oz broke up.”

“I’m not doing a nun thing Connor, I was just choosing to focus on other things,” she said giving him a stern look.

“Fine, but did you at least find some eye candy?” he asked.

“I thought I did,” said Willow looking back upstairs and not seeing the gorgeous blonde that had caught her eye just a few moments earlier. “Please don’t have been a mirage, please be real,” she thought to herself.

“Well, as long as you are looking, that is what counts,” said Connor as he danced back over to Buffy and Dawn.

Willow shook her head and decided she was tired and needed a break from dancing. She made her way over to the sofa they have been sitting at earlier and watched her friends dancing. She thought she caught a glimpse of someone she had seen at TDM, but she wasn’t certain. She kept watching and realized that the blonde she had spotted earlier was now on the dance floor. She watched her dance, mesmerized by the way her body moved, the way her face lit up when she smiled.

“Hey Will,” said Buffy. “Whatcha smiling about?”

“Nothing, just happy about the job and being out with you guys tonight,” said Willow.

“No, we’ve been best friends for long enough I know that look; you saw something or someone you like.”

“Can we just let it go Buffy?”

“No, we can’t. It has been over three years since you and Oz broke up and you gave up dating. If you see someone you like, let’s go get him,” said Buffy.

“I’m not ready yet Buffy. Please, just let me ease into this. Yes, it has been a long time and I need time to get used to the idea that I am finding someone VERY attractive.”

“OK, I get it Will. Can I at least know which guy you find cute?”

“How about I take a picture of those out there dancing and when I’m ready I’ll point them out,” offered Willow.

“Hey, I’ll take what I can get,” said Buffy and she leaned over and gave Willow a hug.

Willow pulled out her phone and took a picture of everyone on the dance floor making sure to get a great shot of Tara.

=====================================

“Tara it has been a long time since I’ve seen you out on the dance floor. Damn girl you can still move,” laughed Faith as they danced.

“Thanks, I felt um inspired,” said Tara.

“Oh no, where is she? Which one of these girls is it?”

“What makes you think that is why I’m down here dancing?” asked Tara as she looked around the dance floor hoping to see the redhead that had taken her breath away earlier. She had it all planned out, as cheesy as it was she was going to dance around and bump into her and then somehow start a conversation with her after she apologized for being so clumsy.

“Seriously, you keep looking at every person on the dance floor like you are hoping to see someone special,” said Faith.

“If she knew she’d do any and everything to embarrass me, though she would claim it was to help,” thought Tara.

“T?”

“Sorry, I’m just down here dancing, nothing more to it,” said Tara as a glint of red caught her eye again.

Tara turned to see the redhead talking to one of the girls she had seen Connor talking to. She started to smile, but seeing the blonde girl hug the redhead dampened her mood a bit. “ She's probably dating the blonde; there is no way someone who is that hot is single.”

As she continued to watch the redhead she saw her pull out a camera and take a couple of pictures of the dance floor. Tara wasn’t sure what to make of it, but she was going to enjoy the view if she couldn’t have the girl.

=====================================

Willow and Tara spent the rest of the night stealing glances at one another and hoping that the other didn’t notice them staring.

“Tara, what do you say we get going? It’s getting late and I have an early morning meeting,” said Donnie.

“Yeah, I have to figure out this new marketing campaign,” agreed Tara.

“Yeah, I just have to sit behind my desk and say you’re hired or you’re fired,” Faith said as she put an arm around the Maclay’s.

“Maybe we need to talk to Dad and see if maybe we could get that chimp we saw at that preserve in South America instead of paying her all that money,” joked Tara.

“I bet the chimp will work a lot cheaper,” said Donnie.

“HEY!” laughed Faith.

“You know we love you,” Donnie said squeezing Faith around the waist.

“Let’s get going,” said Tara starting to move towards the exit when she saw the redhead at the door.

=====================================

“I’m beat,” said Buffy.

“So am I; someone decided to wake me up before the ass crack of dawn this morning,” teased Willow.

“Hey, be nice or I will wake you up in the morning before I leave for my run and I won’t have mocha nor will I bring it back with me, well at least I won’t bring you back any,” Buffy said as she stuck her tongue out at the redhead.

“Meany,” Willow said sticking her tongue out at Buffy.

“Hey Dawn, are you and Janice ok to get home on your own or do you need us to walk you home?” asked Buffy.

“We’ll be fine,” said Dawn.

“OK, call us when you guys get home so we know you make it safe,” said Willow.

“We promise,” said Janice.

Willow and Buffy headed for the exit when Connor stopped them quickly and Willow glanced behind him and saw the blonde looking right at her.

“Have you seen dad recently?” asked Connor.

“We had dinner there tonight,” said Buffy not noticing that the redhead wasn’t paying any attention to them.

“How’d he seem?”

“He seemed like the usual brooding self. Why?” asked Buffy.

“I don’t know, he has just seemed a bit off,” said Connor.

“Well, I can go talk with him if you want.”

“You’d do that Buffy?”

“Sure, if it will make you feel better,” she said with a smile.

“Thank you,” Connor said as he hugged her close.

“Ready Will,” Buffy said pulling the redhead out of the fantasy land she had entered while watching Tara across the bar.

“Huh? Oh yeah, I’m ready,” said Willow hugging Connor and then heading out of the club.

=====================================

After arriving back at the dorm, Willow got ready for bed and pulled out her phone and brought up the picture she took of the hot blonde on the dance floor.

“What is it about her that just makes me insides leap for joy? She’s a she and I date, er dated he’s…but my god she sets my heart on fire,” thought Willow.

=====================================

Donnie dropped Tara off and she went in to and got ready for bed, prepared to lay there dreaming of the redhead she had seen.

“Goddess she was the most amazing and beautiful woman I have ever seen. I feel like I’m going to explode, she ignited something in me. I wonder if she’s has a girlfriend, or if I could stand a chance with her,” thought Tara.

=====================================

Both girls fell asleep and dreamed of the other. They both woke the next day in a much better mood and place than they had been the day before. They didn’t entirely know why, but they both knew that the person they had dreamt of had a lot to do with it.

=====================================
TBC…
=====================================

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~ Branny72
I found younger-me still exists in the archives as SlayerTazz...
Mending Fences | The One Where Everyone Has a Go |Actions and Consequences | Meant To Be


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 2 Updated 09/14/2013
PostPosted: Tue Sep 17, 2013 2:55 pm 
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Interesting start..can't wait to see how Willow and Tara meets..hope its soon..

can't wait for more..


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 2 Updated 09/14/2013
PostPosted: Sat Sep 21, 2013 8:06 am 
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Nice progress with both of them looking at the other. It seems like news to Willow so that will be fun.

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 2 Updated 09/14/2013
PostPosted: Sat Sep 21, 2013 7:45 pm 
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lilyred: Thanks for reading!! The meeting is definitely coming... :glasses

JustSkipIt: Thanks for reading!! :)


=====================================
Title: Meant To Be
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these Characters, just borrowed them and wish I did own them.
Rating:  PG-13 - NC-17
Author:  Branny72
Feedback:  Pretty please…it helps me improve

Summary: AU – Willow is graduating from college at UC Sunnydale and has accepted a job with a company that is new in town. One night, while out with some friends Willow sees an attractive blonde who turns her life upside down. (No Vamps, No Hellmouth, No Magic...)

Authors Notes: Thank you to Willara4ever for all your help with this story. I appreciate your reading it and helping me with the idea.
=====================================

Chapter 3

The following week was a long one; Willow couldn’t stop thinking about the blonde from The Bronze. She wondered who this mystery woman was, where was she from, and how did she get to see more of her. Willow had spent a lot of time that week at her special spot on campus, a little corner hidden by trees that overlooked Sunnydale.

“Am I gay? Am I ok with being gay? I've never felt this before, felt something for a woman. Can I see a future with a woman? Well, I can definitely see a future with the blonde-haired woman who is for certain since I've dreamed of her all week. I'm graduating tomorrow, moving into my own place, well a place with Buffy, starting a new job. Life is changing so fast. Who is the blonde-haired woman from The Bronze? Willow, focus...” thought Willow as she sat under the canopy of trees.

Today when she returned to her dorm room she had to study for her last final, plus do more packing.

The day before graduation Donnie called Willow to finalize the details for her starting the following week.

“Hello,” Willow said answering her phone and sitting down on the bed in her dorm.

“Hi Willow, it’s Donnie Maclay,” said the voice on the other side.

“Oh, yes, hello,” Willow said slipping into business mode.

“I was just calling to finalize the last of the details for your first day next week.”

“Great, I am looking forward to starting,” said Willow

“I’m glad to hear that you are excited, we love that attitude here. On your first day, I’m going to have you start that morning at 7:30. The building will be locked, but I will meet you at the front doors and then I’ll show you around the department and then one of the Supervisors will take over getting you a desk, getting your logins established, and just ensuring that you have all that you need. After that you will either get put into one of the orientation classes or you’ll sit with someone to get to know our systems and procedures.”

“Sounds like a busy start,” said Willow as she smiled at the thought of working at TDM.

“Then there is the dress code, which is always a sticky one for people. The first day, I ask that you do standard business attire, after that, my department is allowed to wear business casual, which means you can wear jeans if you want as long as they aren’t skin-tight and they can’t have any holes in them. Do you have any questions for me?”

“Just one, are you always this hands on with your new hires?”

“Honestly, yes,” said Donnie. “The IT department isn’t huge and we rarely have turn-over, so I like to get to know the staff and work with them as often as I can. Plus, it keeps me grounded.”

“OK, I was afraid I was just a special case,” laughed Willow.

“Nope, you aren’t a special case, I like to know the people in my department and make sure they know me and that they can come to me no matter what.”

“I know I appreciate it and I’m sure everyone else does as well,” said Willow.

“I’ll let you get back to your day and I’ll see you a week from Monday at 7:30.”

“Thank you Donnie, I’ll see you then.”

Once Willow hung up she sat there contemplating graduation, the move, and then getting settled before she started her new job. Life was falling into place nicely for her.

=====================================

Tara spent the following week working with her team on the new campaign, trying to define and design the parameters of the campaign, running them past her dad, and thinking about the redhead. Tara decided she needed a distraction so she went to see her brother.

“Hey Donnie,” she said opening his door only to find he was on the phone. Tara started to close the door when she saw Donnie motioning for her to come in and sit down.

“We look forward to having you on our team, good-bye,” said Donnie ending his call.

“Your prized new hire?”

“Yep, that is the one.”

“You seem pretty excited about her joining your team,” said Tara.

“Well, not only does she have the computer stuff down better than everyone on my staff, she has the analytical background as well. I think we’ll get a lot of benefits from her.”

“I can’t wait to meet her,” said Tara.

“Not that I’m objecting, but what brings you over to my office?”

“I needed a distraction. I have been working on the logistics of that new campaign non-stop and my mind is going all mushy.”

“Is that a technical term Ms. Maclay?” asked her brother jokingly.

“Yes, yes it is,” she laughed.

“What do you say we go out and take a walk around town, maybe check out the beach tonight? That should help you clear your head,” suggested Donnie.

“I like that idea,” said Tara.

“Good because I can’t have my little sister’s brain all mushy.”

“Yeah, because then you’d have to go to more meetings with Dad and the board,” laughed Tara.

“Exactly,” Donnie said.

“How about I swing by your place and we go from there,” said Tara.

“Great. Why don’t you meet me around 6?”

“Sounds good, I’ll see you then,” Tara said as she stood up and headed out the door.

=====================================

“Willow, buddy, pal, best friend of mine,” started Buffy.

“What do you want, Buffy?”

“Well, I was wondering what you had planned for tonight.”

“I don’t really have any plans other than to do the last of my packing. What’s up?”

“Well, I promised Connor that I would go and talk to Angel the other night when we were at The Bronze, but I haven’t gone yet. So, do you want to have dinner at Angels with me and then I or we can talk to Angel to find out why he is all extra brooding?”

“Wow that sounds like such a tempting offer” laughed the redhead.

“Come on Wills! Do it for me,” begged Buffy.

“Fine, but you owe me!”

“You are the best Willow,” Buffy said as she hugged her best friend.

=====================================

Tara walked up to Donnie’s two-story house, and rang the doorbell and waited for him to answer. While she waited her thoughts as they frequently had over the past week drifted back to the redhead from The Bronze.

“Tara, hello, Tara,” said Donnie waving a hand in front of his sister’s face.

“Huh? Sorry,” Tara said blushing.

“What or who are you thinking about?” asked Donnie as he led his sister into his living room.

“You’ve been talking to Faith haven’t you,” Tara said still blushing.

“We may have had a word or two. We love you and we just want to see you happy.”

“I appreciate that, but there is nothing to tell.”

“OK, but when you are ready to either talk or move forward, you just let me know and I’m there for you,” Donnie said.

“Thank you,” Tara said as she hugged her brother.

“Shall we get out of here?”

“Yes, let’s get out and enjoy the gorgeous night.”

Donnie and Tara headed out of his house and walked towards the beach.

=====================================

Buffy and Willow walked along the beach headed towards the pier.

“So, the other night at the club, you saw someone, when do I get to see the picture and see who it was?”

“Not yet Buffy, I’ve still got a few things to work though,” said Willow hoping that Buffy would just let it go.

“Alright, but don’t wait too long to go after him.”

“You have to see someone in order to go after them and I haven’t since that night,” Willow said with a sigh.

“Well, when you are ready, I’m here and I’ll help you.”

“Thanks Buffy,” Willow said hugging her best friend.

As they were walking along the beach, the sun was starting to set and Willow looked towards the shoreline and spotted the blonde from the other night. She felt her heart start to race just at the sight of the amazing woman not too far away.

Tara and Donnie were walking along the shoreline admiring the amazing reds and oranges of the sunset when Tara glanced back and saw the redhead. She tried to hide it, but a sideways smile crept across her face.

Green eyes met blue eyes, they were locked on to the other, both feeling an intense connection, but neither being able to understand where it was coming from, they felt drawn to the other.

“Hey Will,” Buffy said pulling her friend's attention back.

“Huh?” said Willow trying to keep her eye on the woman across the beach.

“What are you looking at?”

“Nothing Buffy,” said Willow trying to keep her from seeing the woman and realizing it might not be a good thing for the other woman to see Buffy, she may get the wrong impression.

=====================================

“Tara, the sunset is the other way,” said Donnie noticing his sister was missing the sunset.

“What?”

“The sunset is the other direction.”

“Yeah, I’m sorry.”

=====================================

Buffy and Willow continued on their walk and after reaching the pier they made their way to Angels and Buffy had her talk with him while Willow sat and daydreamed about the blonde and the way she made her feel.

”Who is that woman? How is it she makes me feel so many things? I don’t even know her. When did I start being attracted to women? Is it just THIS woman? I have to find out who she is; does she feel what I feel? Should I tell Buffy about this? Will she freak? Will she treat me differently,” thought Willow.

Buffy came back from talking with Angel and sat down at the table. She was about to start talking to Willow when she noticed the redhead deeply lost in thought. Buffy was starting to get concerned about how often the redhead was getting lost inside her mind.

“Hey Willow,” said Angel bringing her back to the present.

“Hi Angel,” said Willow.

“I got to meet Donnie Maclay the other day,” said Angel.

“You did?”

“Yeah, he came in with his sister and someone named Faith right after you guys left.”

“Faith is the woman from HR that he was talking to when I arrived for my interview. I didn’t meet his sister, but if she is anything like him she has to be pretty nice.”

“She seemed to be,” Angel said with a smirk before he caught a glare from Buffy.

“Well, we should get going Buffy; I actually have something that I need to talk to you about when we get back to the dorm.”

“Ok, let’s boogie,” said Buffy.

“Angel, dinner was amazing as always,” said Willow as she paid for her and Buffy’s dinner.

“Thanks Will, I’ll let the chef know you loved it.”

Buffy and Willow walked back to their dorm in silence. Willow thinking about what and how to tell Buffy what was going on with her and her connection to this mystery blonde woman. Buffy wondering what the redhead wanted to talk to her about, she wondered if it had anything to do with her being distant or getting lost in thought so much lately.

=====================================

“Um, Tara, can we talk for a few minutes?” asked Donnie once they had finished walking around the beach and part of the town and were back at his house.

“Sure,” said Tara a bit concerned on what her brother wanted to discuss with her.

“What was going on with you at the beach tonight?”

“Nothing, really Donnie,” Tara said hoping that he would let this going, but knowing her brother as well as she did, she knew it was not going to happen.

“Tara, come on, you are starting to worry me.”

Tara sighed and realized she might as well just tell him.

“The other night at The Bronze, I saw someone who I am very attracted to, but since we are new here I didn’t make a move to get to know her name or anything about her. Well, tonight at the beach I saw her again; we locked eyes and I felt like I was in heaven.”

“Whoa, my little sister has an interest in someone? That is fantastic, but why didn’t you say anything or point her out to me?”

“Donnie, we are just getting settled here, I want to feel more comfortable here and with who I am here before I let myself be interested and go after this woman,” said Tara.

“So, you want to date her?”

“I don’t know, I think so, but I have no idea if she is interested in women and if I am her type.”

“Well, if you aren’t she’s an idiot,” said her brother.

“Thanks Donnie,” Tara said.

“When you are ready, let me know and I will help you however I can and be there to support you.”

“I know you will, that is what makes you the best brother ever,” Tara smiled and hugged Donnie.

“I love you sis!”

“Love you too!”

“You better get going before it gets too late and I make you spend the night.”

“OK, I will see you tomorrow,” said Tara as she headed home.

=====================================

“Ok, what’s up Wills?” asked Buffy as they got settled into their dorm room.

“I’m not sure where to start, but promise to hear me out while I stumble through this?”

“Willow, you are my best friend and there is nothing you can say that I won’t be with you on. You are worrying me though.”

“I know, and I’m sorry about that. The thing is, I’m not sure that I fully understand what is going on here either. When we were at The Bronze I did see someone who took my breath away, I was mesmerized, captivated, my heart started to race, I never felt anything like this before.”

“Wow, that must have been some hot guy,” interrupted Buffy

“See, that is the issue, and I don’t understand it, but Buffy, it was a woman who had me mesmerized.”

“A woman? Will? Did I hear that right? I'm confused.”

“Yeah, I don’t know why or how or what is going on with me, but Buffy I felt like I could explode just watching her laugh and smile that night while she was on the dance floor. I mean it was WOW!!”

“Wow, so, Willow, have you been attracted to women in the past? Is this something you’ve known about?”

“Nope, the only one I’ve ever been attracted to was this woman. I don't know how or why, she just, I...”

“So, you’ve been daydreaming about her ever since? That is why you keep disappearing into la la land?”

“Pretty much, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, but I didn’t understand, I still don’t understand. I felt so alive just by looking at her though. Are we still friends? Do you hate me?”

“It’s ok Willow, I love you and you are still my best friend, nothing is going to change that! Now you have a picture of her, let me see who has stolen my best friends heart,” said Buffy.

“She’s gorgeous Buffy,” Willow said as she pulled her phone out of her pocket and pulled up the picture of the dance floor at The Bronze. She handed the phone over to Buffy and pointed to the blonde-haired woman in the middle of the screen.

“Gee Will, when said she was attractive, I didn’t think that she was, well that hot,” laughed Buffy.

“Hey, no ogling, she is mine,” giggled Willow.

“So, did you talk to her? Have you talked to her? Do you know who she is?”

“No, no, and no, but tonight when we were at the beach, she was there, we locked eyes. I know she saw me and she knows I saw her,” said Willow.

“WHAT?” squealed Buffy. “She was there and you didn’t go talk to her or hell, you should have gotten my attention?”

“I’m still not sure what all is going on Buffy, but I look at her and it just feels like we’re supposed to be together, I can’t explain it. And how could I have gotten your attention, we hadn’t had this little talk and you would have really been confused. Goof!”

“Well, then we need to be going out woman hunting,” said Buffy.

“Maybe after we graduate, get moved, and I start my new job we can do that. For now, I just needed you to know, to support me and help me understand what is going on. You’re my best friend and if I didn’t have you on my side I don’t know what I’d do.”

“Anything you need Willow,” Buffy grabbed her best friend into a tight hug.

“Thank you,” said Willow.

“Why are you thanking me?”

“I was so afraid on the way home that I was going to tell you what was going on and you were going to either stop being my friend or tell me to get the hell out of your life, or that it was going to change things, change us.”

“Never going to happen; you are my best friend now and you will always be my best friend. I love you Will, we’re in this together for the long run. Although, if you keep something like this from me again; I’m will have to beat the snot out of you.”

“Yes ma’am,” giggled Willow.

“Ok, now let’s get some sleep, we graduate in the morning and then we have a party to go to, and in a few days we have to move into our new place,” said Buffy.

“I can’t wait,” said Willow.

=====================================

The graduation and move were uneventful, Buffy and Willow were getting things unpacked when Willow’s cell phone rang.

“This is Willow,” she answered.

“Hi Willow, this is Faith Lehane from TDM Enterprise,” said the voice on the other end.

“Yes, you are with HR correct?”

“Yes I am, is this a good time to talk for a moment,” asked Faith.

“Of course,” said Willow as she went into her room and closed the door for some privacy.

“I know that you are supposed to start on Monday, but I have to be out-of-town for a business meeting and I was hoping if it wasn’t too inconvenient that you could stop in today and fill out the various forms that every new hire needs to fill out and we can get your badge made.”

“Of course I can stop in; I was just unpacking after my move.”

“Oh yes, I remember Donnie said that you were moving. You don’t have to dress up, just come in jeans and a nice shirt, the picture is just from the waist up.”

“Ok, what time works best for you? My schedule is pretty open,” asked Willow.

“Let’s see, it is about noon now, how about 1?”

“I will be there at 1.”

“Great, I’ll meet you in the lobby, I remember you have the bright red hair,” laughed Faith.

“Yep, that is me.”

They hung up and Willow frantically grabbed clothes and went to shower and get ready.

A few minutes before 1 as Willow was walking up to the TDM Enterprise building she caught a glimpse of the blonde again. She was walking away from the building and Willow didn’t think she had seen her. It took all she had not to chase after the woman, to call out to her.

“Damn why do I have to go inside NOW,” she thought.

Once inside Willow saw Faith standing near the receptionist and walked over to her.

“Willow, thanks for coming in,” said Faith extending her hand.

“Of course, it got me out of unpacking the kitchen,” Willow laughed and shook Faith’s hand.

“Well, I’m glad we could help with that,” Faith said as she led Willow to the elevator and up to the 8th floor again. Once they stepped out of the elevator, Willow followed Faith down another corridor away from Donnie’s office where she had been on her previous visit. Faith showed Willow into her office and had her take a seat opposite her at the desk.

“This building is so gorgeous,” said Willow.

“Yeah, Mr. Maclay went all out on this one. He really liked the area and I think he plans to be here for a while.”

“I’ve lived here my whole life so I’ll confirm it is a pretty nice place to be.”

“It seems like it. I was out with Donnie and his sister the night you interviewed and we ate at this really great place,” started Faith.

“Angel’s,” said Willow with a smile.

“Yes, how did you know?”

“Angel mentioned that you three came in shortly after we left.”

“He spoke very highly of you,” Faith smiled as she pushed some paperwork over to Willow to fill out.

“He’s a great guy and a good friend,” Willow said taking the paperwork and filling it out.

“Again, I appreciate you coming in today to take care of this. Normally someone else can handle this, but because you are in IT-Security and Web Design I have to take care of it.”

“I understand, I was just unpacking anyway,” Willow said with a smile as she finished the paperwork and slid it back over to Faith.

“Great, now we just need to get your picture taken and badge made and you can be on your way.”

“Ok,” said Willow as she was led into an adjoining office and had her picture taken and within minutes she had her badge.

“Here you go Ms. Rosenberg. Donnie will have your access cards and everything on Monday when you start.”

“Great, I will be here at 7:30 sharp on Monday,” said Willow as her and Faith headed back down to the lobby and they shook hands and Willow was on her way.

=====================================

“Buffy,” called Willow upon arriving back at their apartment.

“Yeah Wills,” said Buffy.

“I saw her again.”

“The steamy dreamy blonde?”

“Yes,” laughed Willow at the nickname her best friend had given the attractive blonde.

“Where’d you see her at? Tell me what happened,” said Buffy plopping down in front of the redhead.

“It was just as I was arriving at TDM, I glanced around outside because it is just so beautiful there and she was walking away from the building.”

“Whoa, what if she works there Willow,” giggled Buffy.

“Oh, that wouldn’t be good Buffy,” said Willow horrified at the thought.

“Why is that such a bad thing?” asked Buffy.

“Because it is bad to date where you work; things get sticky and lines get blurred, it just wouldn’t be good.”

“Willow that is if you are dating your boss not if you are dating someone works in another department that you don’t see constantly or that doesn’t do your performance reviews.”

“It is?”

“Yes, silly.”

“Oh,” Willow said as she blushed.

“Why did you have to go in today anyway?”

“Oh, Faith, the head of HR has to be out-of-town on Monday and because of the department I work in she has to do all of our paperwork and security stuff.”

“Ah, that actually sounds impressive. My little Willow is part of a highly secure and secretive department,” laughed Willow.

“Very funny, Buffy,” Willow said as she started laughing as well.

They spent the rest of the week unpacking, getting the place organized and then getting everything together for Willow’s first day. Nerves started to set in, and Buffy did all she could to help Willow get past them.

=====================================

“Faith,” said Tara as she answered the door.

“Hey T,” said Faith.

“Come in.”

They went into Tara’s living room and sat down.

“What brings you by?” asked Tara.

“I have to go out-of-town for a few days and I wanted to see how you were doing. I also wanted to see if you wanted to talk yet,” smiled Faith.

“There isn’t much to talk about,” said Tara.

“Tell me about her?”

“I don’t know what to say, she was gorgeous, well is gorgeous, breathtakingly gorgeous. I’ve seen her a couple ofa times since that night at The Bronze too.”

“You have?”

“Yeah, Donnie and I went for a walk down on the beach and I saw her and we definitely made eye contact, we stood there just with our eyes locked together. Then yesterday I saw her outside the office, though there are hundreds of people outside it daily.”

“So, you haven’t talked to her yet?”

“No, but I can’t get her out of my head,” said Tara.

“Wow, this sounds serious T. I don’t think even Erin affected you like this.”

“Trust me when I say she didn’t. This is, oh hell, I don’t even know how to describe it,” Tara said running her hands through her hair.

“When I get back Tara we’ll figure it out and if I have to go door to door to find her I will,” said Faith putting a hand on her friends’ hand.

“I believe you would Faith,” laughed Tara.

“Hey, that is what best friends are for right?”

“And you are definitely my best friend.”

=====================================
TBC…

_________________
~ Branny72
I found younger-me still exists in the archives as SlayerTazz...
Mending Fences | The One Where Everyone Has a Go |Actions and Consequences | Meant To Be


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 3 Updated 09/21/2013
PostPosted: Mon Sep 23, 2013 4:28 pm 
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3. Flaming O
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Thanks for the update! :grin
Enjoying the fic :bounce
Maybe they can meet in the next chapter :pray
:) :eatme


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 3 Updated 09/21/2013
PostPosted: Tue Sep 24, 2013 12:38 pm 
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Buffy's right - in a different area where they don't work togetrher. With the "huge however" that Tara is a department head (influential by itself) and daughter of the owner and sister to Willow's boss.

Still not as inapprorpriate as Buffy and Riley (at least before the end of first semester,) or Alex and Nick in <i>Flashdance</i>, or, let's be honest, Lianna and Ruth in <i>Lianna</i>. So, complications could be interesting.

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Snapshots:http://thekittenboard.com/board/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=10210 a Love Story
____________________________________________________________
Kim: (breaks off the kissing) I l... (Sue stops her with a hand)
Sue: We don't talk about things like that right after, you know that, no saying those things in The Moment.
Kim: (moves the hand aside) Screw The Moment. I *love* you.


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 3 Updated 09/21/2013
PostPosted: Tue Sep 24, 2013 4:41 pm 
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Great update..eagerly waiting to see how they finally meets and falls in love :wtkiss ...
Looking forward to the next chapter..


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 3 Updated 09/21/2013
PostPosted: Wed Sep 25, 2013 11:24 pm 
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A totally new fic! And AU at that! Yay! So cool! Can't wait to read more... :)

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 3 Updated 09/21/2013
PostPosted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 2:13 pm 
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bluepaintbox: I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the fic! I hope you enjoy the update below. :glasses

DaddyCatALSO: Yeah, Willow is stuck in a hard spot...I wonder what she will do? :wink

lilyred: The meeting is definitely coming...Enjoy this chapter!! :sigh

Phantasyland: Thanks for reading!! :cool


=====================================
Title: Meant To Be
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these Characters, just borrowed them and wish I did own them.
Rating:  PG-13 - NC-17
Author:  Branny72
Feedback:  Pretty please…it helps me improve

Summary: AU – Willow is graduating from college at UC Sunnydale and has accepted a job with a company that is new in town. One night, while out with some friends Willow sees an attractive blonde who turns her life upside down. (No Vamps, No Hellmouth, No Magic...)

Authors Notes: Thank you to Willara4ever for all your help with this story. I appreciate your reading it and helping me with the idea.
=====================================

Chapter 4

Monday morning arrived as did Willow’s nerves. She had awoke at 5am and couldn’t get back to sleep she was too worried about the day and what was going to take place. This was her first real job, her potential career. She got up, had breakfast, showered, and got dressed and was now sitting in her room contemplating what could go wrong.

“Hey Will, are you up yet,” called Buffy from her room when she got no response she walked over and opened the redheads door. “What the hell was I thinking of course you are up and ready for work and it is only 6am.”

“Sorry,” Willow said sheepishly.

“Nerves? Butterflies?” asked Buffy.

“Yes and bats not butterflies,” replied Willow.

“Will, you are going to do just fine today. Remember they sought you out, not the other way around. You’ve already impressed them.”

“I know Buffy, but this is my first real ‘adult’ job and I want it to go well.”

“Wills, you have always done everything; great when it comes to schoolwork and the tutoring you volunteered for. You don’t have a problem with this stuff, walking and running - you have an issue with, but this, nope,” smiled Buffy.

“Gee thanks Buffy! Now I’m going to walk into the building and fall flat on my face, way to set the bar nice and low,” laughed Willow.

“Hey, it is what I do,” replied Buffy.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been so nervous Buffy,” admitted Willow.

“You’ll be fine, we just went through this.”

“I know, but I thought about it again and the panic came back.”

“Willow stop it. You are going to be just fine and you are going to have an awesome day. When you get home, I’ll have dinner ready for you,” said Buffy.

“Um, you aren’t cooking are you?” asked Willow sheepishly.

“I wasn’t planning on it, but now, since you are being a brat, maybe I will,” Buffy said sticking her tongue out at the laughing redhead. “Do you want me to walk you to work?”

“Um, no, I think I can get there on my own, but thanks mom for the offer. The other kids pick on me when you do that,” laughed Willow.

“They only pick on you because their jealous. I'm hotter than their mom,” laughed Buffy.

“Ok, I feel better now,” said Willow.

“Good, I was starting to run out of good material to make you relax.”

Buffy made coffee for them and after Willow finished her cup she finished getting ready and then headed to her first day of work.

=====================================

It was a gorgeous sunny day out, the birds were singing, Willow thought that it felt about perfect, except for the nerves. As Willow walked up to the building she saw Donnie talking to a blonde haired woman who was speaking very animated with her hands.

“Willow,” called Donnie hoping that he could get out of the conversation.

“Good morning,” said Willow as she joined the two.

“Who is this? I don’t recall seeing you around before?” asked the woman.

“Anya, this is Willow, today is her first day and if you don’t stop scaring her it may be her last and then YOU are going to have to come and work in my department.”

“Oh, she’s one of yours,” said the woman.

“Yes, she is joining the IT-Security and Web Design team,” Donnie said smiling at Willow noticing her nervousness.

“Well, hello, I’m Anya Jenkins, Senior Financial Specialist.”

“Hello, Willow Rosenberg, Security & Design Analyst,” Willow managed to get out and shook the woman’s hand.

“Ok, now that we have that done, shall we get your day started?” asked Donnie.

“Yes, please,” Willow said softly.

“Hey, what about me? We were talking here,” said Anya.

“Anya, I have no say in any of that, go and talk to Tara, she is the one that can help you most. She has the most pull with my father.”

“Fine, your sister is always easier to deal with anyway,” said Anya as she walked away.

“So, still want to work here?” Donnie asked jokingly.

“That depends, is everyone going to be like her?”

“Nobody is like her. Come on,” Donnie said opening the door for Willow and ushering her in.

They rode the elevator to the 4th floor and stepped out. There were a set of smoke colored glass doors in front of them with a security pad; the rest of the room resembled a steel vault.

Donnie used his access card to open the inside doors. Willow saw that the room was dark, but it was by design. They still had the windows to look out of, but the windows had a coating that lowered the intensity of the light they let in. As they walked through the area Willow felt several eyes on her, but she intently followed Donnie. He exchanged pleasantries with everyone as he passed. Willow was impressed with his hands-on approach.

“Hey Jesse,” said Donnie opening the office door in front of them.

“Hey Donnie,” said the person inside.

“I have Willow Rosenberg your new hire here with me. May I use your phone first though? I have to warn Tara that I just sent Anya here way,” laughed Donnie.

“Sure, I remember what it was like the last time you sent Anya to her and didn’t warn her,” laughed Jesse.

“Willow, this is Jesse McNally he will be your manager. Jesse, this is Willow Rosenberg your new Analyst.”

The two exchanged hellos and then listened in silence to Donnie conversation.

=====================================

“Good Morning, Tara!”

“Morning Donnie, you do realize it is too early in the morning to have me on speaker phone,” Tara said a smirk could be heard in her voice.

“Yes, I know it’s early, but I'm not in my office right now.”

”I see, so, what is so urgent big brother that you needed to call me so early.”

“I just wanted to give you a heads up that I may have possibly sent Anya your way to discuss some investment ideas she has,” said as he physically coward from the phone.

”You WHAT? Why would you do something like that to me? And on a Monday?”

“Because, she was scaring Willow my IT new hire that is starting today and I didn’t want her to quit before she started.”

”You big chicken shit,” laughed Tara.

“I am not a chicken shit,” replied Donnie hearing a snicker come from Jesse.

“You just didn‘t want to deal with her so you pawned her off on me. You owe me big-time for this. I‘ll deal with her, but you are going to pay dearly.”

“I love you Sis! You are the best no matter what anyone says.”

“I love you too. And I hope Willow and Jesse enjoyed hearing what a wimp their fearless leader is.”

Donnie noticed the smile on both Willow and Jesse’s face. “From the grins on their face they did. Thank you for embarrassing me so thoroughly.”

“That is what little sisters are for,” the smile on Tara's face coming through in her voice.

“I’ll see you when you get in. Thank you, Sis.”

“No problem, Donnie. Oh, good luck today Willow,” said Tara.

“Thank you,” Willow squeaked out.

=====================================

“Not a word from either of you,” laughed Donnie as he hung up the phone and turned to face the other two.

“I think you buying the department lunch should keep us quiet,” Jesse said winking at Willow.

“I was going to anyway,” Donnie said smugly.

“Fine, then how about buying us breakfast today and tomorrow,” Jesse negotiated.

“Fine, I’ll buy you breakfast as well,” laughed Donnie.

“Our lips are sealed,” said Jesse and Willow nodded.

=====================================

Tara hung up the phone from her brothers’ call and shook her head. She knew she shouldn’t have given him a hard time while he had her on speaker phone, but she just couldn’t help herself. She poured herself another cup of tea and sat down on the couch mentally preparing to deal with Anya and with the rest of her day.

Anya wasn’t a bad person, she was just very passionate about money and her job. Tara recalled when they had interviewed Anya and the graphs and flowcharts she had brought in to prove her thoughts and theories. Donnie was unsure what to do, the finance manager was impressed and intimidated, and Tara, she was encouraged.

Tara finished her cup of tea, rinsed out the cup, then headed to her room to finish getting ready and head to work. This was the first time she had lived close enough to work to walk and she loved it. She loved the fresh air and today the sun beating down on her.

Upon arriving outside the building Tara stopped and talked to the fruit vendor as she did most mornings, then she took a moment to talk with a couple of colleagues that were leaving the building. Once inside she took the elevator to the 8th floor and went to her office. As she sat down her assistant brought in her messages and there were two from Anya stating that they needed to talk about some of her ideas. Tara groaned but told her assistant to set up a meeting, preferably in the late afternoon or if she could somehow arrange it for another day.

=====================================

“Well Willow, welcome to your first day,” said Jesse. “Since you have already been through the meeting of Anya you have passed the 'gets along with difficult people' test.”

“Thanks, they didn't tell me I was going to have to take a test on my first day. Had I known that I would have studied,” laughed Willow.

“Well since you passed the test on the first try, we won't have you do it again, for a while at least,” said Jesse with a smirk. “Here are your ID cards, your security card and log-in information. I’ll show you to your desk and then I am going to have you sit with one of our other Analysts for the day.”

“Sounds great,” said Willow.

Jesse walked Willow to her desk; it was a standard 8 foot by 8 foot cube, her desk had four monitors set up for her and she noticed that her desk also had a window and it overlooked the front entrance of the building.

“Xander won’t be in for another fifteen minutes, so why don’t you take that time to get logged into your computer, set up your email and desktop and then once he gets in I’ll come and introduce you and get you set with him.”

“Great,” said Willow.

After logging into her computer and setting up all she could, Willow took a moment and looked out the window admiring the view. As she was scanning the area, she saw a blonde woman walking, the blonde, her blonde was walking towards the building. She watched as the woman stopped to talk to one of the vendors nearby and then to a couple of the people who were headed towards the building.

“Oh my goddess it’s her…she works…here,” thought Willow. Her heart started to race, she felt her face getting warm. She heard someone walking towards her desk so she moved from the window back to her chair.

“Willow, are you all set up,” asked Jesse.

“Yep, I’m all set and ready to learn,” said Willow grabbing a notepad and a couple colored pens off the top of her desk.

“Great, let’s go and get you set up with Xander.”

Jesse walked Willow over two rows to where a young man who looked about Willows age sat, he was an average height with brown hair and brown eyes sat. The man looked up and smiled as they came to his cube. Willow thought it was a very warm and friendly smile.

“Xander, this is Willow, she is starting today as an Analyst and I’d like for her to shadow you today and learn the ropes and how we do things here. Willow, this is Xander, he is another Analyst like yourself, he’s been with us for a while and moved a couple of times with us as well so he is well versed in our practices and procedures.”

“Hi,” they each said.

“Well, if you have any questions or problems, I’ll be in my office,” said Jesse as he left them.

“So, have a seat,” said Xander motioning to a chair he had in the corner of his cube.

“Thanks,” said Willow as she pulled the seat closer and sat down.

“So, are you from Sunnydale or a transplant like myself?”

“Born and raised here,” said Willow.

“Awesome, I will be hitting you up for information on where is good to hang out and where is not so good.”

“That is easy, The Bronze is the best place to hang out and stay away from Willy’s Bar. There are a lot of unsavory people who frequent that place,” Willow said.

“Alright, The Bronze yes, Willy’s no, got it. Is that really all there is?”

“Well, it is all that there is worth mentioning. The Bronze is great, a friend of mine manages it and his dad owns the restaurant called Angel’s.”

“Hey, I ate there last night; amazing food,” said Xander.

“Yeah, it is one of my favorite places to eat, and it isn’t just because Angel owns it.”

“Wait, the guy who owns it is named Angel?”

“Yeah, just don’t let him hear you make fun of it, he doesn’t take kindly to that. I learned the hard way,” smiled Willow.

“Thanks for the tips and advice, I guess we should get started on your training?”

“I am here to learn, teach me oh wise one,” she laughed grabbing her notebook and pens.

“Oh, you’re a geeky nerd,” laughed Xander.

“Yep and I am damn proud of it.”

“We are going to get along perfectly.”

=====================================

Tara spent the day going over her notes from her meeting with her dad and the board the previous week and trying to come up with the new online marketing plan. She finally decided on a plan of action and now she needed to get the logistics figured out on how to market it and what resources she was going to need from within the company.

“Well, that only took seven hours,” she thought.

=====================================

“Well, after spending the day training with Xander, how do you feel about things?” asked Jesse.

“She is a wiz and has worked on her own since noon,” stated Xander.

“Well, I guess that tomorrow we’ll start you on your own projects. You can start at either 7:30 or 8.”

“I’d prefer 7:30 if that is ok,” said Willow.

“That is perfect. You are all done for the day. Have a great night and we’ll see you first thing tomorrow morning,” said Jesse. “Oh and if you hurry out you may not have to see Anya again,” teased Jesse.

“Great, good night guys,” said Willow as she headed to her cube and shut down her computer and grabbed her badge and security card and headed to the elevator. “That was a fantastic first day.”

When Willow got home, Buffy was there waiting for her and she told her about her day and how she had seen THE blonde again and about Anya. As she promised Buffy ordered dinner for them and they ate and had a relaxing night as their new lives were starting to come together.

=====================================

For Willow, the rest of the week went by in a flash. Friday afternoon Willow was working on creating a security program to fill a hole they found in another program that the company had purchased.

“Good afternoon, Willow,” said Donnie as he walked up to Willow's desk while she was working.

“Good afternoon,” said Willow with a smile.

“How has your first week gone?”

“Amazing, and incredible are the best terms I can think of to describe the week,” she said.

“Jesse has told me a lot of very good and promising things about you and your work. He also stated that you have some very innovative ideas and suggestions.”

“I do what I can,” she said shifting her eyes downward a bit.

“Well, starting on Monday we have a new and exciting project for you to work on. I think you are going to really enjoy it.”

“Great, do I get any hints on what it is or are you going to make me wait all weekend to find out?”

“Well, my sister as you know is the head of marketing, and Tara is launching a new online campaign, and we would like to have you working on it with her. Both Jesse and I think that your creativity mixed with hers will make this a pretty interesting and inventive campaign,” said Donnie

“Sounds interesting, I look forward to meeting your sister and seeing what online magic her and I can create,” said Willow.

“Great, why don’t you meet me at my office Monday at 9 am and I’ll take you over and introduce you to Tara and you guys can get started.

“Ok,” said Willow as she added it to her calendar along with a reminder.

“I’ll let you go, and have a great weekend.”

“You too and thank you,” she said as she watched him turn and walk away.

Willow made her way down to the lobby and was headed out of the building when she saw the mysterious blonde headed out of the doors in front of her. Willow tried to speed up and exit the doors near where the blonde had gone out. She hoped that she would be able to talk to her, she didn’t know what she was going to say, but she was hoping to figure something out by the time she caught up to her. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to catch the woman before she saw her intercepted by Anya.

“Great, I was so close. At least I know that she for certain works here now and that is a start,” thought Willow as she turned and headed back to her apartment.

=====================================

“Hey Wills,” said Buffy as she walked into the apartment.

“Hey Buffy,” said Willow as she flopped down on the couch.

“So, how was the first week?”

“Well, it ended almost amazing,” laughed Willow.

“What do you mean almost amazing?” asked Buffy with a questioning look.

“Well, I was on my way out of the building today and I saw HER,” said Willow bouncing on the balls of her feet.

“Wait, you saw HER, the HER?”

“Yes, that is the one. I was all set to talk to her and then I saw her talking to that creepy woman from the finance department so I avoided her. I know for certain that she works there, now I just need to find out where she works and who she is.”

“That is awesome. So, that can be next week’s goal,” laughed Buffy.

“Yeah, well next week has its own set of new challenges already.”

“Uh oh.”

“Donnie came up to my desk just before I left and told me that they want me to start on a project next week. I’m going to work with Donnie’s sister Tara, the head of marketing on their new online campaign,” said Willow as she sat down on the couch.

“Wow, that is impressive,” said Buffy.

“Yeah, I guess,” said Willow.

“Willow, you have barely been there a week and they are already having you help the head of marketing on a new campaign, that is huge.”

“Yeah, I suppose it is,” Willow said with a smile.

=====================================

The weekend passed in a flash and Willow made her way to work Monday morning excited for the new project and the challenges it would bring. At 8:50 she got her pens and paper together and started to make her way up to Donnie’s office.

At 9 o'clock Willow was escorted into Donnie’s office by his secretary.

“Good morning Willow,” said Donnie.

“Good morning,” she said.

“Well, I told Tara that we would be over and the two of you could get started. She is going to have your help for as long as it takes, Jesse is aware of this, so don’t worry about anything else. Basically you are going to be working for my sister until the project is complete.”

“Yes sir,” said Willow.

“Well then, let’s go,” said Donnie as he escorted them out of his office and down the hall to Tara’s office.

Donnie knocked on the door and from inside they heard her call for them to come in.

“Hey Sis,” said Donnie as they entered and Willow was standing mostly behind him out of Tara's direct view.

“Hey Donnie,” said Tara.

“Tara, I’d like to introduce you to our newest hire and computer genius,” started Donnie as he moved to a side and motioned for Willow to come forward. “Willow Rosenberg, this is my sister Tara Maclay. Tara, Willow Rosenberg, computer genius.”

Willow and Tara locked eyes, blue met green, they both felt as though the world has stopped spinning and it was just them, they were both struck speechless.

“Hi,” Willow finally managed to sputter out.

“Hi,” said Tara barely above a whisper.

“Well, I am going to leave you two to get to you one another and get started on your work,” said Donnie as he left the room and left them alone oblivious to what was going on between the two women.

“I, um, I’m sorry,” started Tara her mind was blank and all she could do was gaze into those amazing green eyes and that red hair.

=====================================
TBC...

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I found younger-me still exists in the archives as SlayerTazz...
Mending Fences | The One Where Everyone Has a Go |Actions and Consequences | Meant To Be


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Sun Sep 29, 2013 2:52 pm 
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3. Flaming O
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Finally they met. I bet they are gonna have some fun and loving while working on their project. Can't wait for more. Please update soon...


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Mon Sep 30, 2013 1:30 pm 
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Well, definitely not stretched out :-). But defintiely a <i>boingngng!</i> moment for them both.

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Mon Sep 30, 2013 5:01 pm 
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And so the sexual tension begins.


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Tue Oct 01, 2013 12:33 am 
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3. Flaming O
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Thank you for the update! :clap
They meet & their story begins... :heart
Hoping for minimal angst.
Can't wait to enjoy the rest :eatme :banana
:grin :fallen


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Wed Oct 02, 2013 11:28 am 
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You officially have my hooked. Great start! I look forward to another update!

I really hope the boss/employee dinamic doesn't mess them up too bad.

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 5:34 am 
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And so they meet...

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 4 Updated 09/29/2013
PostPosted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 12:54 pm 
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lilyred: Now that they have met the real fun begins!! :D

DaddyCatALSO: Definitely a boingngng] moment!! :bounce

love_2003: There is definitely going to be some sexual tension!! :wtkiss

bluepaintbox: I will see what I can do to keep the angst to a minimum. Please enjoy the update below! :grin

fhiwda: YAY another fan!! :banana Hmmm,boss/employee dynamic I'll have to see what I think of for that.

JustSkipIt: They meet and now the real story can begin! :sighagain

---------
:smash <--- too cute!


=====================================
Title: Meant To Be
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these Characters, just borrowed them and wish I did own them.
Rating:  PG-13 - NC-17
Author:  Branny72
Feedback:  Pretty please…it helps me improve

Summary: AU – Willow is graduating from college at UC Sunnydale and has accepted a job with a company that is new in town. One night, while out with some friends Willow sees an attractive blonde who turns her life upside down. (No Vamps, No Hellmouth, No Magic...)

Authors Notes: Thank you to Willara4ever for all your help with this story. I appreciate your reading it and helping me with the idea.
=====================================

Chapter 5

“So, um, my brother tells me that you are a wiz with computers and with anything technical,” Tara managed to get out after a couple minutes of the two staring at each other.

“Er, yes ma'am,” Willow said not really sure she even knew what Tara had said.

“Please, call me Tara, ma'am makes me feel like I should have grand-kids running around me,” laughed Tara whose heart melted when she saw the redhead give a soft smile. “What do you prefer to go by? Willow? Ms. Rosenberg? Something else?” “Sexy, gorgeous, mine,” thought Tara.

“I usually go by Willow or my best friend called me either Will, or sometimes Wills, so you can really call me any of those and I will answer, although I sometimes answer when people are talking and they say the word 'will' as well, and I'm babbling and now embarrassed and most likely matching the color of my hair,” Willow said as she turned several shades of red as she was unable to stop herself from talking.

“Well, Willow, it is nice to meet you and p-p-please don't be embarrassed about b-babbling, I stutter at times,” Tara said realizing how nervous the gorgeous redhead in front of her was.

“Great first impression, she has to think her brother was insane to hire you and now she is going to replace you on the project. Oh my god, the project, just her and I working...” thought Willow as panic rose inside her.

“Now that we got the names and embarrassing quirks out of the way, why don't we move to the conference room next door and I can show you what we have going and then we can discuss what it is I'm envisioning we could do and you can tell me if it is possible.”

“Ok,” said Willow as Tara held the door open for her and pointed to the smaller room on the right.

“Nice view from behind,” thought Tara. “Stop looking at her ass, Faith will never let you live it down if you get caught by her or someone finds out, but damn it is a nice view.”

The conference room was about a quarter of the size of Tara's office, there was a large whiteboard on the wall right ahead as you walked in the door, a high-resolution video monitor on the wall to the left, a small table and four chairs. In the corner behind the door was a small recessed media closet that housed the computer and whiteboard markers.

Tara motioned for Willow to take a seat near her opposite the video monitor. While Willow got situated Tara grabbed the wireless keyboard and mouse out of the media closet and started the computer.

“Sorry, I forgot that t-they shutdown the c-computer over the weekend so it'll just take a minute to um, boot up,” said Tara.

“Keep control Rosenberg, no freak outs today. Goddess she smells good and she is so much more amazingly beautiful up close. Please don't drool...”

“Ok, now Maclay get a grip, yes, she is hot, sexy, and oh goddess it is so cute and quirky that she has all those multi-colored pens.”

“Well, while this boots and I get everything loaded, do you know much about our campaigns?” asked Tara as she logged into the computer and 'accidentally' touched Willow's hand while using the mouse.

“I've seen the ads online and done some research on the company and the stock trends,” started Willow.

“Was that before or after you got the job?” interrupted Tara curiosity getting the best of her.

“It was when I heard that the company was planning to build a division here in Sunnydale.”

“Were you interested in the company?”

“A little, honestly I didn't know a whole lost about TDM before then. After I did my research I thought that it was a fantastic company to add to Sunnydale,” Willow said receiving a warm smile from Tara.

“Well, let me bring you up to speed on the current campaign, then we'll go through the meeting that I had with my dad and the board and their ideas, sorry, and then I'll go over MY vision,” said Tara as Willow picked up two of her pens and started to jot down some notes.

“Sorry, I take a lot of notes,” she smiled shyly.

“I would rather you took a lot of notes than no notes and didn't have a clue later. Though if you do what Faith does and start doodling while I'm talking, I may have an issue then.”

“I wouldn't,” Willow said in a slight panic.

“Willow, I'm joking,” said Tara putting a hand on the redheads shoulder.

“Sorry, new job nerves still,” said Willow hoping that Tara would believe her and not realize that it was because she was sitting next to the woman of her dreams.

Tara spent the next four and a half hours going through the things with Willow and discussing how and why they had done certain aspects. Willow was getting a little more relaxed and was able to ask some questions, but mostly she just loved listening to the blonde talk. Part way during the meeting Tara's secretary had brought them drinks and lunch, since Tara didn't want to let the redhead out of her sight.

“So, that is the first two parts, next you get my vision,” laughed Tara.

“Well, it is all very interesting so far, I look forward to hearing what your vision is,” said Willow realizing how corny what she just said sounded.

“Well, I need a break and I'm certain you are tired of listening to me drone on and on.”

“No, I like to learn, so I'm really enjoying all of this.” “And your voice is hypnotically sweet,” thought Willow.

“Why don't we take a ten minute break and then we'll start back up again?”

“That sounds good. I'm just going to run down to my desk and check on the program I had testing,” said Willow.

“Will, I said a break, you don't need to work on your break,” laughed Tara.

“I know, but it is who I am. I'll be back in 10 minutes to hear your vision for this campaign.”

Tara watched Willow walk out of the room and head to the elevator.

=====================================

“Hey Sis,” said Donnie as he exited his office and Tara was just about to go into hers.

“Hey Donnie,” Tara said smiling.

“How are things going with my genius?” he asked.

“Great, she hasn't quit or fallen asleep while I was talking.”

“Well, that's good. So, do you think you'll be able to work with her?”

“Yeah, I think that Ms. Rosenberg and I are going to get along just fine.”

=====================================

“WOW, what am I going to do now. I have the hots for the head of marketing, my bosses sister, the owners daughter. Oh goddess, I'm in trouble.”

Willow made it to her desk and checked her program and found that it had run with no errors so she emailed it to Jesse quick and then looking at the clock decided she had better get back up to Tara.

“Hey Willow, do you have a second,” said Jesse as Willow was passing his office.

Looking at the clock she saw she still had about 5 minutes before she was expected to be back upstairs. “Um, sure.”

“I promise it will just take a minute. How are things going upstairs with Tara?”

“Great,” said Willow.

“I think you two will get along really well, she is one of the nicest people I've ever known in my life,” said Jesse.

“She seems nice,” said Willow. “And sexy...stop it Willow.”

“Well, thank you for finishing that program so quickly.”

“No problem.”

“Well, I'll let you know get back,” Jesse said.

“Thanks,” said Willow as she hurried off to make sure she was back upstairs in time.

=====================================

“So, how is your program doing,” asked Tara as Willow entered the conference room.

“It is all done and I gave it to Jesse,” said Willow.

“What was the program for?”

“It was filling a security hole in some of the new software the company bought. When I was doing research on the program I found that they had left a gaping hole for people to get into companies networks.”

“So you wrote a program that fixes that?”

“Yeah, it plugs the hole and logs the IP of the computer trying to get access to the company network,” Willow said proudly.

“I understand almost none of what you said, but it sounds impressive,” Tara said and they both laughed. “Ok, now for the best part of the day. Humor me, here is my vision for the campaign.”

Tara brought up a PowerPoint presentation, a bunch of graphs and very animatedly explained to Willow how she envisioned the campaign going.

“So, am I insane?”

“That sounds like a loaded question and I like my job,” giggled Willow feeling a bit more at ease with Tara.

“HEY,” exclaimed Tara. “Am I insane or can we make my campaign work?”

“I don't know if you are insane, we just met, but the campaign, yeah, I can make it work.”

“Fantastic! Willow, that is exactly what I wanted to hear. Now, what do you say we get out of here and call it a day.”

“Um,” started Willow.

“Remember, you work for ME until I see fit to give you back to Jesse and I say the day is done! Go get your stuff and head on out Ms. Rosenberg you have done your job for the day.”

“Ok, what time did you want to start tomorrow?”

“Let's meet back in the conference room at 8:30,” said Tara. “Wait here for a moment and I'll ride down to 4th floor with you. I need to talk to Jesse for a minute.”

“Ok,” said Willow.”

Willow and Tara rode down to the 4th floor together. Tara went into Jesse's office, Willow went to her desk and closed out of her programs and PC and then headed back to the elevator glancing at Tara and Jesse as she passed his office.

=====================================

“Hey Jesse, got a minute?” asked Tara.

“Sure,” said Jesse smiling at the blonde who entered his office and closed the door behind herself. “To what do I owe the honor?”

“It's about Willow Rosenberg,” started Tara.

“Amazing isn't she,” beamed Jesse.

“Very! I saw her resume before Donnie interviewed her, but what else do we know about her?”

“Is there a problem? I really thought you two would hit it off.”

“No, no problem at all. She just seems to good to be true is all.”

“Yeah, I don't have anything more to tell you, sorry.”

“That's ok, I just wanted to check,” said Tara as she got up and left his office. “Have a great night.”

“You too Tara.”

=====================================

Willow walked home in a Tara-induced haze, she couldn't believe that not only had she found out who the gorgeous blonde-haired dream woman was, but she was working with her, she had spent almost the full day with her.

Willow walked into the apartment, called out for Buffy, but didn't receive a response. She went into her room and put her bag down and went into the kitchen to get something to drink. Attached to the refrigerator Willow found a note from Buffy stating that she had to make a quick trip to LA and she would be back in a couple of days or by the end of the week.

“Bad timing Buffy! Geez I really wish you were here.”

Willow decided to try to call Buffy on her cell,but when she dialed the number she heard it ring in the blondes room. Willow shook her head and sat down on the couch and started to daydream about her day and Tara.

=====================================

Tara walked home, she couldn't believe how amazing the day had been, not only did she find out who the sexy redhead was, she is working in close proximity to her. Tara thought about all the 'accidental' bumps her hand made to Willow's hand while she was using the mouse.

“She is the cutest woman I have ever seen. Be careful though Maclay, mixing business was and pleasure is like playing with fire” Tara thought to herself. She couldn't wait for Faith to get back from her business trip so that she could tell her about Willow.

=====================================

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday were spent with both girls stealing looks at one another and bumping just to have contact with the other. They brainstormed and Willow drew out a rough sketch of what she thought Tara was wanting for the campaign website. They hadn't talked much about stuff outside work, both afraid that the other was going to find out how they other was feeling. Willow and Tara were also greatly missing their best friends so that they would have someone to talk with.

Friday was set aside for Willow to build the website. Tara had told her that she had some meetings that she couldn't get out of, but that she would meet with her late in the afternoon to discuss the website and to see what Willow had come up with.

At 1:00 on Friday afternoon Willow received a call from Tara's secretary asking her to meet the blonde in the conference room to go over the design. Willow saved her work on a shared server and grabbed her notes, pens, and headed up to meet with Tara.

“Hey Willow,” greeted Tara as the redhead entered the room.

“Hey,” said Willow as a smile crept across her face.

“So, how is the coding going?”

“Well, let me get logged in and I'll bring up with I have so far and we can see what you would like changed or if it is even what you were looking for.”

“I'm certain that it is perfect,” said Tara.

After Willow pulled up the design, they discussed what she had put together so far and what Tara had for her vision and where they need to enhance the site or make changes.

“I have to say that this looks incredible. I can't believe you put that together just today.”

“I still have a lot of coding to do, but I was able to steal some of the code from the current site so that helped me with some of the parts.”

“I love it Willow, I really do.”

“Great, I can work on it this weekend if you'd like and have something more put together for you on Monday,” offered Willow.

“No, really you don't have to work on this over the weekend, that is your time.”

“I don't have anything going on anyway,” said Willow. “Do you have any major plans for this weekend?” asked Willow hoping to find out where the blonde was going to be so that maybe she could bump into her accidentally-on-purpose.

“I thought about trying to learn my way around the city, but I don't know. Are there any places you recommend? Does Sunnydale have any of those double-decker tour buses like they have in New York city?”

Laughing Willow said, “No, we don't have any tour buses, but I could give you a um tour if you want.” Willow wasn't sure what made her offer to show Tara around, but she hoped it wasn't out of line.

“You've spent most of the week at work with me and you are offering to show me around on your own time? I would think spending the day outside of work with your boss would be one of the last things you would want to do.”

“Really Tara, I grew up here, where else are you going to get an offer like this?” asked Willow.

“I would love to go on a tour of Sunnydale with you then. When would you like to go?”

“Well, I could meet you outside the building tomorrow at say 9 and we could go from there. Unless you have plans tomorrow or that is too early for a Saturday, then we could do it whenever it is convenient for you or on Sunday if that is a better day for you. I really have nothing going on and please dear goddess make me stop babbling,” said Willow.

“Wow, all that in one breath, very impressive. Meeting you here tomorrow at 9 would be perfect.”

“Great,” beamed Willow.

“And now, we call it a day. Go home and enjoy the nice weather and I'll see you back here tomorrow,” said Tara.

“Are you sure?”

“Willow, we've worked long and hard on this the full week, you are offering to show me around town tomorrow. The least I can do is give you a reprieve and allow you to leave early on a Friday afternoon. And to show how serious I am about it, I am going to head out early too.”

“So, is you letting me go early just an excuse so that you can leave early?”

“You will never know,” Tara said as she winked at the redhead.

“Well then, let's head out of here,” said Willow.

“Do you need to go back to your desk?”

“Nope, I have all my stuff with me,” said Willow.

“Great, let me close up my office and I will head out with you.”

Tara and Willow were headed down to the lobby in the elevator when it stopped on one of the floors and Faith got in.

“Hey Tara,” said Faith.

“Faith, when did you get back?” asked Tara.

“Last night.”

“Have you met Willow,” said the blonde motioning towards the redhead.

“Yep, before I left. How is the job going?”

“Pretty amazing,” said Willow.

“We’ve worked hard this week so we are doing a ‘working field trip’ right now,” laughed Tara.

“Oh is that what it is called when you play hooky with a department head,” laughed Faith.

“We aren’t playing hooky, we’re going elsewhere to get creatively inspired,” Tara said justifying their leaving the office.

“Right T, and I was born yesterday. I’ve been your best friend for 10 plus years, I know you better than that,” laughed Faith.

“Prove it,” Tara said smugly.

Willow just smiled at the friendly banter between Tara and Faith.

“Fine, as the head of HR I do not see you leaving, and I know nothing about any of this,” Faith said giving a wink at Willow.

The elevator stopped at the lobby and the three got off.

“Hey Willow, I need to talk to Faith about one thing, why don’t you go ahead and head out, I’ll meet you outside tomorrow morning at 9 ok,” said Tara.

“OK,” said Willow and she headed outside to enjoy the sunshine and wait for Tara.

“What’s up T?” asked Faith.

“Willow is the woman that I saw at The Bronze, and at the beach,” Tara grinned like a little school girl.

“Seriously? Red is the girl?”

“Red?”

“Well, look at her hair, yeah; I’m going to call her Red.”

“Well, then yes, she is the girl.”

“Oh now I get the playing hooky stuff, you're trying to get on her good side. And did I hear you have a date tomorrow,” said Faith waggling her eyebrows.

“That is not it at all, she offered to show me around town since I don't know much about Sunnydale, but I intend on using the time to get to know her as well.”

“I’m happy for you T. From the vibes I’ve gotten from her, she seems like someone finally worthy of you,” Faith said.

“Thanks Faith, but we don't even know if she bats for the same team as I do,” said Tara.

“Fine, now, get the hell out of here – and call me tomorrow night. I want details,” laughed Faith as she shoved Tara friendly towards the door.

“Okay, talk to you later,” Tara said practically skipping out the door and heading home.

=====================================

Willow rushed home hoping that Buffy was finally back from LA, she really needed to talk to her best friend. As she neared the apartment she heard music coming from inside which made her move even quicker. Willow burst through the front door and causing Buffy to scream from her spot on the couch.

“Willow, what the hell?” asked Buffy.

“I'm sorry, I have missed you and I have had something to tell you all week and it is been killing me. I got excited when I heard the music and knew you were home,” said Willow as she closed the door and went over and sat down on the couch near Buffy.

“So, what is so important that you had to scare me to death?”

“I found her, Buffy. The gorgeous, sexy, blonde,” said Willow as her eyes glazed over thinking about Tara.

“You did, give me details. Where did you find her? Did you talk to her? Does she have a name?” asked an excited Buffy.

“She is um Donnie’s sister Tara,” Willow said.

“Wait, didn’t you say that you were going to work with her on a project?”

“Yep,” said Willow grinning fiercely.

“And didn't said project start on Monday? I’m so excited for you,” said Buffy as the redhead nodded.

“Yeah, I have spent almost all day every day this week with her. Buffy she is incredible, and tomorrow I am going to show her around Sunnydale!”

“Wow, way to go Wills. Is this a date or just a friendly thing?”

“It is just a friendly thing, I don't know that she is gay and well, someone that hot, why would she be interested in me,” Willow said trying to give Buffy a half-hearted smile.

“Willow Danielle Rosenberg I don't ever want to hear you say something like that about yourself ever again,” snapped Buffy startling the redhead. “You are very attractive and anyone would be lucky to be involved with you.”

“I'm sorry Buffy, it is just hard, I still have some scars from the whole Oz thing,” said Willow.

“I get that, but you need to start putting yourself out there in order to get past those scars and fears.”

“I'm trying, Buffy. I really am,” Willow said with a pleading look at her best friend.

“I know, so Tara. Tell me about her.”

“Buffy, she is even more gorgeous when you get to see her up close, she smells incredible, she is sweet, caring, funny, wicked smart.”

“So, you like her it isn't just because she's hot,” asked Buffy in a serious tone.

“I like her. We didn't really talk about personal stuff, but hopefully I can learn some stuff about her tomorrow on the tour.”

“I can't wait to meet this woman, and you do realize that I will be meeting her to make sure that she is worthy of my dear Willows heart and attention.”

“Yes, I do realize that Buffy. Just don't embarrass me, her brother is technically one of my bosses.”

“Whoa, that's right, you have the hots for the owners kid, your bosses sister. Eesh Will, that might be a little dangerous.”

“I know, I will be very careful,” Willow said reassuring her best friend. “As we were leaving today Faith the HR lady got in the elevator with us and listening to them – it reminded me a lot of you and I.”

“That's great Willow, I'm really happy for you. I think we should celebrate and order dinner and have a movie girly night.”

“Ok, but I'm not letting you do my hair again.”

“You looked so cute though,” laughed Buffy.

“Yeah and it took me four days to get my hair untangled and back to normal,” laughed Willow.

“Fine, no hair involved.”

“I’d say have a good day tomorrow, but I think that is going to be an understatement.”

“I think you are right,” laughed Willow.

=====================================
TBC...

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~ Branny72
I found younger-me still exists in the archives as SlayerTazz...
Mending Fences | The One Where Everyone Has a Go |Actions and Consequences | Meant To Be


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 1:27 pm 
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3. Flaming O
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Great update.. :applause :bow :bow
W/T on a tour of Sunnydale. I hope for some smoochies :wtkiss


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Sat Oct 05, 2013 9:49 pm 
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Sweet, sweet, sweet... <3 <3 <3
:)

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Sun Oct 06, 2013 8:36 am 
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Such a great update. Looking forward to many stolen glances and touches while Willow is giving Tara a tour of Sunnydale.


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Sun Oct 06, 2013 5:55 pm 
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3. Flaming O
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Thank you for the update.
Really enjoying the fic.
It's moving at a good pace.
Can't wait for more!


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Mon Oct 07, 2013 3:54 am 
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32. Kisses and Gay Love
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Well this should be very sweet and flirtatious. I hope Tara isn't confused by Oz. You know "oh. She has an ex boyfriend. She's straight."

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 7:10 am 
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5. Willowhand
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I love the relationships portrayed between Willow/ Buffy and Tara/Donnie. The teasing reminds me of the way I have always acting with my siblings and friends.

Great update! I can't wait to read more!

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 1:23 pm 
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20. Not one Much for the Timber
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I'm loving this fic! Can't wait to for their Saturday tour around town date! Should be all kinds of fun. :grin

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 5 Updated 10/05/2013
PostPosted: Sat Oct 12, 2013 6:55 pm 
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lilyred: I'm glad you liked the update. Tour time begins!! :grin

Phantasyland: Thank you for reading! :glasses

love_2003: I hope you enjoy the tour packed with...well, I can't give it away yet. :sigh

bluepaintbox: I hope you enjoy the update!! :kitty

JustSkipIt: Flirting...hmmm, did I put that in...oh yeah, I put that in! :flower

fhiwda: I'm an only child so I am happy to hear that I got the teasing between siblings correct! :sigh

Finey_McFine: I am very happy to hear you are enjoying the fic thus far! Fun was definitely had on the tour and for the writer writing the chapter! Thanks for the feedback – glad to know I am on the right track with the story! :bigwave

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:smash <--- too cute!


=====================================
Title: Meant To Be
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these Characters, just borrowed them and wish I did own them.
Rating:  PG-13 - NC-17
Author:  Branny72
Feedback:  Pretty please…it helps me improve

Summary: AU – Willow is graduating from college at UC Sunnydale and has accepted a job with a company that is new in town. One night, while out with some friends Willow sees an attractive blonde who turns her life upside down. (No Vamps, No Hellmouth, No Magic...)

Authors Notes: Thank you to Willara4ever for all your help with this story. I appreciate your reading it and helping me with the idea.
=====================================

Chapter 6

Buffy and Willow settled in for their movie/girlie night. Willow made sure she had several happy movies, because crying made for puffy eyes the next morning and that wouldn't be acceptable for her day with Tara. Buffy made plenty of popcorn for them to munch on during the movies. Buffy also grabbed the nail polish and manicure set so that they could do each others toe nails and finger nails.

“Buff, you realize that you have to be nice about painting my nails right?” asked Willow.

“Yes, I know, date with Tara means little fun for Buffy when it comes to painting,” laughed Buffy.

“It isn't a date Buffy, I am just showing my boss who is new to town around.”

“Your cute and intelligent boss around,” reminded Buffy.

“Yes, that one,” laughed Willow. “I am still trying to believe all of this.”

“Why is it so hard for you to believe Will? Is it because she is a woman?” asked Buffy.

“No, I don't think that is what is making it so hard for me to believe. With Tara that part feels right, like we are meant to be together. I'm more having an issue with me even falling for someone.”

“Okay, you are going to have to explain that to me,” said Buffy.

“Well, after everything that happened with Oz, I haven't even had an interest in dating or in anyone, then I see Tara at The Bronze and I can't think of anyone else, I dream about her, I am pretty much consumed by thoughts of her. What the hell happened? How is it that she has this effect on me?”

“Willow, you are thinking too deep into this. Oz hurt you, he destroyed your trust in people, not just guys or people you found attractive, you were questioning every relationship both those who you were friends with, those you just were acquainted with, and those that at one point you were attracted to. He essentially pulled the rug out from under you and left you devastated. Now, you are starting a new chapter in your life, you have graduated college, you are starting life as a full adult, complete with a full-time job, responsibilities there, this apartment and the bills that you are responsible for here, you have moved one from that life and your mind is now ready to move on as well. You couldn't keep shutting everyone and everything out because he hurt you, you can't continue to give him that type of power against you. It isn't healthy and you have done it for long enough. If I could have beaten him bloody for what he did to you I would have, but we both know that had I done it at that time you wouldn't have forgiven me and Angel would have been a bit pissed since he wanted the honors.”

“Wait, Angel wanted to beat Oz up as well?” asked Willow.

“Hell yeah he did. Willow, you seem to find this hard to believe but there are a lot of us that care very deeply for you and we don't take kindly to people hurting you.”

“It isn't that I find it hard to believe that you all care about me Buffy, it is more that I find it hard to understand why. I'm just a geeky nerd,” interrupted Willow.

“Stop right there, you are our geeky nerd and we love you and we wouldn't be who we are if we didn't have you a part of our life. Accept it and let's get on with this movie night.”

“Yes ma'am,” said Willow knowing that she shouldn't even consider arguing with Buffy on this.

“Alright, now put in the first movie and it better not be a vampire movie, you know they scare me.”

“Yes I remember the four nights you spent in my twin bed with me in college because we watched “Interview With A Vampire” and you were convinced Angel was a vampire and he was going to kill you in your sleep,” laughed Willow.

“Well, it was an honest mistake,” laughed Buffy as she tackled her best friend on the couch. “So, what are we watching?”

“Well, I was going to put in Twilight, but Dawn took that home after I reminded her of your fear of vampires, so I put in “Sweet Home Alabama” since it is my feel-good movie.”

“You just think that Reese Witherspoon is hot, admit it. You Willow Danielle Rosenberg have a thing for blonde-haired women!”

“Um, Buffy, did you forget that you happen to be a blonde-haired woman and I am sorry, I love you as a friend, but I do NOT have a thing for you,” laughed Willow.

“What? Am I not good enough for you to have the hots for? How can you pass up all this?” asked Buffy standing up her hair pulled back into something that resembled a pony tail, and she was wearing sweatpants with holes in them that were two sizes to big, her Sunnydale HS t-shirt with the paint and ketchup stains on it and her fuzzy bunny slippers.

“I don't know how it is that I am not drooling over you at this very moment,” giggled Willow as she started the movie and Buffy sat back down on the couch.

=====================================

“Hey T,” said Faith as she answered her phone.

“Hey Faith,” Tara said with a wavering in her voice.

“What's up?”

“Do you have plans tonight?” asked Tara.

“Yeah, I was going to go over to my best friends and she was going to tell me what has her upset,” Faith said the smile coming through in her voice.

“Thanks Faith. I'll see you when you get here,” said Tara with a sigh of relief.

“Anytime Tara, you know this. I'll be over soon,” said Faith as she hung up the phone, put her shoes on, grabbed her keys and headed out the door.

Tara paced around her apartment waiting for Faith to arrive. She heard someone walking down the hall towards her place and opened the door and saw Faith.

“Hi,” said Tara sheepishly.

“What's going on?” asked Faith.

“Nerves about tomorrow I think,” said Tara.

“Tara, tomorrow you just need to worry about being yourself. Red is going to love you,” started Faith.

“I don't need her to love me Faith, I just need her to like me and want to spend time with me.”

“If she doesn't she's an idiot and not worthy of you.”

“You are biased,” laughed Tara.

“You bet I am! See over 10 years ago I met this goofy looking scrawny blonde who used to sit in the back of the classroom and try to become one with the wall. Nobody ever knew she was there, she wouldn't speak in class, she was so shy that I think when I first met her I scared the hell out of her,” said Faith raising an eyebrow towards Tara and receiving a nod in acknowledgement that she did scare the hell out of her when they had first met. “But I saw something in that girl, I saw a strength and a fire, a passion that I hadn't ever seen in anyone. I was drawn to her and I wouldn't let her continue to just hide through life. I have watched her grow up into an intelligent, smoking hot woman who has so much to offer her friends and the woman she gives her heart to.” Faith took Tara's hand as she saw the blond blushing. “Tara, you were hurt bad by Erin, you put yourself into your schoolwork and graduated at the head of the class, early even, and you have put everything into TDM since then. I know that this company wouldn't be where it is now without you, but now it is time to enjoy being young. If you and Willow are just friends, I think she'll be a pretty great friend from the vibes I get, if there is more to your relationship with her, well, it is about time. You are my best friend and I say this with all the love I have inside me, you need to stop being scared and get back out there.”

“Faith,” started Tara as a tear rolled down her face, she had never heard anything so sweet.

“I mean it T, you deserve more than just work in your life.”

“I have that, I have you and Donnie,” said Tara.

“You need more, I think tomorrow is going to be a great start. If things go well with you and Red, maybe the three of us can go to the beach on Sunday.”

“Maybe we should have her invite her roommate too, that way she doesn't feel like we are ganging up on.”

“See, you are already thinking ahead. You need to stop worrying about tomorrow and just enjoy the fact that you have met someone new and are getting out to enjoy the new town.”

“What would I do without you?” asked Tara as she threw her arms around the brunette.

“We'll never have to find out, you are stuck with me for life,” laughed Faith. “Now, pour me a glass of wine and let's watch a movie to take your mind off tomorrow.”

“Yes ma'am! What movie would you like to watch?”

“There is only one movie that makes you relax,” laughed Faith.

“Sweet Home Alabama,” said both Tara and Faith together.

“You know me so well,” said Tara handing Faith her glass of wine and then popping the disc in for them to watch.

They settled back and watched the movie, both falling asleep on the couch together.

=====================================

Willow woke up at 7 and stared at the clock wondering what she should wear, where she should take Tara, would Tara regret spending the day with her, would she start to babble and embarrass herself. Her mind was going through different scenarios and most of them didn't end with her having a friendship with Tara, they ended with her being fired.

Buffy poked her head into Willow's room and saw the look on her face. “Stop with the negative thoughts Rosenberg! You are going to have a great day with Tara, you are going to get to know one another and start building a friendship or more from there.”

“What if she doesn't like me? You know the me that isn't at work?”

“Then she doesn't deserve to be a part of your life,” said Buffy. “Now get your ass up and get in the shower and get ready.”

“Yes ma'am,” laughed Willow as she got up and went and started to get ready for her day with Tara.

=====================================

Tara woke up on the couch limbs tangled with Faith's. “How the hell did I end up like this?” she thought to herself. Faith started to move and Tara was able to untangle herself and look at the clock which said 7:25.

“T, I love you, but next time we have a heart-to-heart and watch a movie we are doing it in your bed because this couch is NOT comfortable at all,” said Faith stretching.

“You seem to have slept okay,” laughed Tara.

“Whatever, now don't you need to start getting ready for your day?” asked Faith.

“Yeah, I do,” said Tara.

“Well, then get moving, I'll hang around until you leave to meet Willow, because I am that awesome of a friend.”

“Thanks Faith,” said Tara as she stood up and pulled the other woman into an embrace.

“Okay, enough Faith-loving,” laughed Faith as she friendly shoved Tara towards her room.

=====================================

Willow finished showering, getting dressed, and doing her hair and she opted not to wear make-up. It was going to get warm today and all she needed was to have the make-up drip down her face. She was about to start getting her bag together when she saw Buffy standing in her doorway holding a fully packed bag.

“You are the best Buffy,” said Willow.

“I know, now get out of here and have a great day and I will be here waiting when you get home to hear all about it,” Buffy said hugging Willow and then handing her the bag.

=====================================

Tara finished getting ready for the day and saw that Faith had gotten her stuff together for her.

“Thanks Faith,” smiled Tara.

“Go and enjoy the day. Call me tonight when you get home and I'll come over and you can tell me all about it.”

“I promise,” said Tara and they both headed out of her apartment. Tara was headed to meet Willow and Faith was headed back to her place to sleep on something more comfortable that the couch had been.

=====================================

Willow arrived outside TDM about 10 minutes early. She had walked fast so that she wouldn't be late, not that she hadn't left in enough time, but what if she had fallen or run into a traffic jam of bumper to bumper cars that she couldn't get through because they were all so close together and then she had to go several blocks out of her way.

Tara saw Willow sitting on the benches near the fountain in front of the building. She couldn't help but smile at how beautiful the redhead looked sitting there. She was still unsure why she was so drawn to the redhead, but she had given a lot of thought to what Faith had said last night and she was ready to give even a new friendship a chance.

Willow looked up and saw Tara headed over towards her and she couldn't help but smile.

“Good morning,” said Willow as she got up from the bench to meet the blonde.

“Good morning Willow,” said Tara.

“So, are you ready for your tour of the happening and mega-metropolis oh, wait, we're touring Sunnydale,” laughed Willow and she saw Tara giggle.

“I am very ready for my tour of Sunnydale. I have to say that having my own personal tour guide is pretty neat,” laughed Tara as she casually touched Willow's hand.

“Remember that after the tour has ended,” laughed Willow relishing the feeling of Tara's hand as it had briefly touched hers.

“I will.”

“So, I know that you have been to the um beach, The Bronze, and Angel's, anywhere else?”

“No, unless you c-c-count w-w-work,” Tara said kicking herself internally for stuttering.

“Hey, there is nothing to be nervous about. I promise that I am not super creepy, I won't take you to the woods and leave you for the wild animals, nor will I do anything else that isn't part of us having a fun day exploring Sunnydale,” said Willow making an effort to contain the Willow-babble that was threatening to take over.

“Okay, I'm sorry, I will try to not be nervous.”

“Good, so should we get started?” asked Willow.

“I am all yours,” Tara said and Willow smiled at her.

=====================================

“So, where do you want to start,” asked Willow.

“Well, as you said I’ve been to Angel’s, The Bronze, oh and the beach. What else is there?”

“Well, we have the mall, the zoo, the pier, UC Sunnydale, tons of places.”

“Well, let’s head left and go from there,” suggested Tara.

“Sounds great! Let's the tour begin,” said Willow. “Well, your tour begins with this elegantly styled building recently constructed by TDM Enterprise, a company new to the Sunnydale area. The view from inside is quite pleasant,” said Willow doing her best imitation of a bus tour guide.

“And what do you really think of this company TDM and their employees?” coyly asked Tara.

“Well, from what I know of the company and its staff, I’m inclined to say they are pretty good people,” Willow winked at Tara and then blushed when she realized that she was flirting with her.

“I’m very happy to hear that,” Tara causally flirted back.

“Though that is just a first impression as I haven't known them all that long yet, but I'm hoping to get to know them better,” said Willow.

“I'm sure they are hoping to get to know you as well,” said Tara.

“And here we have one of many strip malls in the fascinating town of Sunnydale. Ethan’s Costume Shop and Party Town are both great places to get costumes for your Halloween party or if you just want to have that dressed up fun feeling. I forgot to ask if you booked the tour with interesting stories of the area or just the blah boring tour of where stuff is?”

“I booked the interesting story tour, definitely booked that one,” said Tara.

“Great, now where were we...oh yeah the costume shops. When I was in High School, a bunch of us used to throw costume parties every few months depending on whose parents were out-of-town or willing to allow us to have a party at their house.”

“That sounds like a lot of fun,” said Tara. “Were you one of those popular kids in school?”

“Oh no, I was a total geeky nerd, not that I'm not now, but I wasn't popular. I had some great friends though. Buffy, who I live with was one of the first people to ever make me feel like I was more than a just a nerd.”

“I wasn't a popular kid either,” said Tara.

“I don't know why not,” said Willow.

“Well, I have Faith to thank for who I am today, she helped me, no, she forced me to come out of the shell that I was hiding in. If it wasn't for her, I don't know where I'd be right now.”

“Well, I'm glad she did, or you may not have come to Sunnydale,” said Willow. “Stop flirting Rosenberg, she is going to think you are a creeper,” thought Willow.

“So the parties sound like they were pretty interesting,” said Tara

“They definitely had their moments. A couple of parties almost got out of hand. And then down this street we have 'The Moonbeam Diner,' I don’t recommend their food unless you are looking for a great case of food poisoning and a way to get out of work, or a date, and now we need to make a small detour before we continue our tour,” said Willow with a sly smirk.

“I have a feeling that I should be scared about this so called detour,” laughed Tara.

“Um, er, no, not at all,” Willow said unconvincingly.

“Where are we headed?”

“Well, we are headed here,” said Willow opening the door to the Espresso Pump.

“And why are we here?”

“Because we have a distinct need for a caffeinated sugary substance before we get to the zoo. It makes seeing the animals better,” said Willow her face lighting up.

“Right, or is that just an excuse,” asked Tara raising her eyebrow and then offering the redhead a heart stopping lopsided grin.

“I know not what you speaketh of Ms. Maclay,” said Willow in her best Shakespearean speak.

“Willow,” called a voice from nearby.

“Oh, hey Dawnie,” said Willow as she was enveloped into a hug.

“What are you doing up so early? You aren't job hunting are you? You weren’t fired for being too anal about stuff were you? You know I’ll still love you and everything if you did. Please tell me you didn’t though, but again you will always be my Willow no matter what.”

“No, I wasn't fired and I am NOT job hunting, but thank you Dawn for both the care and embarrassment,” started Willow turning a medium shade of red. “Dawn, this is the head of marketing and one of my bosses, Tara Maclay. Tara this is my best friends little sister Dawn.”

“Hi, nice to meet you Dawn,” said Tara shaking the teens hand.

“It’s nice to meet you too. Please don’t hold what I said against Willow. She isn’t a bad person, just a little OCD about stuff. It is really a great quality at times.”

“I wouldn’t think of holding it against her,” Tara said winking at Willow. “I know what I’d like to hold against her though.”

“Again, thank you Dawn,” mumbled Willow under her breath.

“Does Buffy know you are in here getting mochas?”

“No, and if you know what is good for you, you’ll keep your little mouth shut,” laughed Willow putting her hand over Dawn's mouth and receiving a good lick on her hand from the teen.

“What is in it for me? Last time I kept my mouth shut we ended up, oh wait, boss right, um, sorry,” said Dawn as she giggled while Willow wiped her hand off.

“Oh, I am willing to hear whatever you are willing to tell on stories about Willow,” interjected Tara laughing at the interaction between the two.

“No way, you just met me, you have to wait for the dirty details,” laughed Willow.

“That doesn't really seem fair to me,” said Tara.

“It does to me,” laughed Willow playfully bumping shoulders with Tara.

“I think I’ll just go get you your mocha. And what can I get you,” asked Dawn as she turned to Tara.

“Whatever Willow is having would be great, thank you,” said Tara.

“Sorry about that, I forgot she was working today,” said Willow as Dawn left to get their drinks.

“Don’t be, you seem to have a fantastic relationship,” said Tara feeling a deep pang of jealousy for the closeness between Willow and Dawn.

“She is a great kid, most of the time,” said Willow.

“Ok, two extra large mocha’s Willow-style, anything else?” asked Dawn as she handed them their drinks.

“Willow-style? Okay, that scares me a bit,” laughed Tara.

“It should. Willow-style is triple the caffeine and extra chocolate,” said Dawn as she watched Tara's eyes get wider.

“Oh my,” said Tara.

“Consider it an adventure,” laughed Willow taking a drink of her coffee.

“Where are you headed now?” asked Dawn.

“We're going to make our way to the zoo,” said Willow.

“Those poor animals…” laughed Dawn as she started to walk away she called back “Don't get kicked out this time Wills.”

“You are an evil child Dawnie,” said Willow shaking her head.

“That is why you love me Will,” Dawn called back turning to see Willow shaking her head and Tara laughing.

“Willow, is there something that you need to tell me?” asked Tara playfully.

“I like caffeine and chocolate?”

“Triple the caffeine? Seriously, there is triple the regular caffeine in here?”

“Well, seeing as Dawn made it, there is probably bit more than that, but it will be close.”

“Well, so much for sleeping this week,” said Tara as she took a sip.

Willow smiled as she watched Tara’s reaction.

“Ok, that is amazingly good.”

“You seem surprised,” said Willow as she led them out of the Espresso Pump.

“I guess, maybe a little,” Tara said casting her eyes downward.

“It’s ok, really,” Willow said touching Tara's shoulder. “I know it doesn’t sound all that great, but we’ve tweaked it over the years.”

“I see, and why is it that um, Buffy isn’t supposed to know about you and the mochas?”

“Well, not exactly; come on, I’ll explain on the way to the zoo,” said Willow as she escorted Tara down the street.

“Now I’m really nervous,” laughed Tara as she turned and started walking towards the zoo.

“I tend to become a bit of a spaz when I have too much caffeine or sugar. Well, maybe spaz is an understatement.”

“Willow, you just got an extra large drink that is triple the regular caffeine,” exclaimed Tara.

“I did and I just finished said drink,” said Willow as she tossed the empty cup in the nearby trashcan.

“I’m now very nervous. I have barely made it through a third of mine,” said Tara as she noticed more of a spring in the redheads step. “So, did you grow up nearby?”

“Well, not far from here. This is Revello Drive, Dawn and her Mom live down there,” said Willow pointing to the left towards 1630 Revello Drive. “Buffy used to, and I spent a lot of time there; my parents spent a lot of time out-of-town so I was always over there. Dawn is more like a little sister than anything.”

“That sounds hard having your parents gone so much. My mom died when I was 17,” said Tara.

“I’m so sorry,” said Willow as she put her hand on Tara’s arm. They both secretly enjoyed the contact.

“She had been sick for a long time, but it was hard on us all at the end,” said Tara casting her eyes downwards briefly.

“Were you close with your dad and brother before then?”

“Yeah, we had always been a close family. When dad started TDM he made sure that Donnie and I got involved from the beginning, though we couldn’t do a lot, he still wanted to make sure that we learned it from the ground up.”

“That’s awesome, talk about a fantastic learning experience. I am an only child; I always wondered what it would be like to have a bigger family or a family most of the time.”

“Hey, this is where Anya lives,” said Tara as they passed the apartment building.

“She has a good location; I had a friend who lived there when I was growing up. And now that I know she lives here I may have to take a different route to the zoo.”

“She seems to like it,” Tara smiled. “And I understand that she is a bit intimidating and um bold until you get to know her better.”

“And down that way is Lovers’ Lane; every town has to have one.”

“So, did you ever go down there,” asked Tara offering Willow a smirk.

“Um, I’ll plead the 5th,” Willow blushed.

“From the shade of red you are turning, I’m going to guess that you have been down there,” laughed Tara feeling another pang of jealousy.

“Ok, once, but that was a very long time ago,” said Willow not wanting to divulge any details and ruin her amazing day with Tara.

“Hey, I see the zoo,” said Tara sensing that Willow wasn’t comfortable with the subject.

“Yep, it isn’t much, but it is definitely fun!” Willow started to bounce around a bit and her smile grew as she saw Tara had finished her mocha and was starting to feel the caffeinated beverages effects.

They walked in the front gate and giggling and acting like teenagers made their way to the monkey cage.

“I love the monkeys,” said Tara trying to reach over the railing to touch one of the monkeys.

“Me too,” said Willow doing her impression of one of the monkeys. The monkey appeared to have noticed and started to scream at them.

“Growing up I always tried to talk my parents into letting me get one, but I never managed to convince them. Um, Willow, I don't think that one likes you imitating it.”

“I tried to convince my parents too. Why do you, oh look out I think he has some poo to fling,” laughed Willow as she pulled Tara out of the poo-flinging range.

Willow then led them to the bears where they watched them swim, and then to the giraffes. Willow kept trying to pet one and convince Tara that its name was Melman from the movie Madagascar.

“Willow, I will not believe you that they named the giraffe in Madagascar after this giraffe and that his name is Melman.”

“Why won't you believe me? I said it with a mostly straight face,” laughed the redhead.

“You are a goof you know that?” said Tara realizing that she was having more fun than she thought she ever had before.

“Fine, spoil sport. Lets go watch the seals,” said Willow taking Tara's hand and leading her over to the seals.

They arrived at feeding time so the seals were as Willow described it being made to beg and perform for their lunch. As they were watching Willow heard Tara's stomach growl and the blonde blushed.

“If you are finding the raw fish appetizing I'm sure I could ask them for a little fishy for you,” joked Willow.

“Watch it Rosenberg,” laughed Tara.

“I want to say I'm sorry, but I just can't,” laughed Willow. “How about we head over to the food area and then we can hit the petting zoo and see the cute baby animals.”

“Sounds great to me!”

Since it was Saturday the food area was packed with families, kids running everywhere. Willow found an open table and quickly ran and sat down at it before a woman and her child could get to it. Tara caught up and told Willow that lunch was on her. After they got their food and ate they made their way to the petting zoo.

“Willow, look at the baby goats,” said Tara grabbing the redheads hand and pulling her over to the goats.

Willow did her best impression of a goat and three of them looked at her and started to talk with her. Tara took out her phone and recorded the interaction between Willow and the goats. They then got some food and fed the goats, Tara feeding the littlest one because she felt sorry that he was so small and couldn't fend for himself against the bigger goats. Willow tried to tell her it was a ploy, but Tara wasn't buying it.

As they were looking at the other animals in the petting zoo, Willow told Tara that she had volunteered in the petting zoo for a couple of summers because she wanted to play with the baby animals. They moved around the rest of the zoo talking about the animals and what they liked best about them or experiences with them. Willow and Tara had both ridden an elephant when they were kids, Tara had swam with the dolphins on a family vacation.

They had spent the afternoon at the zoo looking at the animals and talking. Both were having such a great time that they hadn't noticed the time passing.

“I can't believe we spent almost the whole day at the zoo,” said Willow as they were ushered out of the gates because the zoo was closing.

“I can't believe that the zoo closes at 5 pm on Saturday,” said Tara.

“Well, that just means that we need to continue on with our tour. How about we go to Angel’s? Good food, guaranteed a great table,” suggested Willow.

“That sounds perfect to me. The night we ate there the food was amazing.”

They left the zoo and headed down Whedon Avenue and when they arrived at Market Court, they went over to Angel’s restaurant to have dinner together.

=====================================
TBC...
=====================================

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I found younger-me still exists in the archives as SlayerTazz...
Mending Fences | The One Where Everyone Has a Go |Actions and Consequences | Meant To Be


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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 6 Updated 10/12/2013
PostPosted: Sun Oct 13, 2013 2:41 pm 
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32. Kisses and Gay Love
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Sweet and flirty. I loved the shout outs to the show - Whedon Ave and Angel being a vampire.

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 Post subject: Re: Meant To Be - Ch 6 Updated 10/12/2013
PostPosted: Mon Oct 14, 2013 9:38 pm 
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3. Flaming O
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Well now I am hooked. Really solid start with nice character development. I'm finding the close relationship between Donnie and Tara to be a pleasant surprise and I like the parallel friendships between Willow/Buffy and Tara/Faith. I am really looking forward to following this story.

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