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

[LonelyTara]

Delightful...and now I want Chinese food...and the reason to want Chinese food...

[KnightlyLove]

(just because the thread has already been bumped)
That's the truth. I just bought chinese food out for the first time in... months. Ahhh the power of suggestion.

[wimpy0729]

Ahh, the morning after was just lovely. Shiny, happy day, and of course, the counter sex makes it even shinier and happier.

Oh, and this:

Hopefully I didn’t ruin it with the gratuitous sex in the next chapter, lol.

Trust me...you could NEVER ruin anything with that. I was just thinking their first time should be special, and you went way above and beyond my expectations. So hey, please feel free to throw in as much gratuitous sex as you want. I will definitely never complain.

Stupid papparazzi. Seems they need to keep a little better eye on the gate camera now. At least Tara got Will stopped in time and wasn't seen -- or was she? Hmm. Ooh, this is all so exciting.

I'm hoping Willow's limping isn't anything to really worry about. Can't wait to see what's next.


Wimpy

[Ariel]

Shel,

Pretty much speechless here! (At least I got my little panting problem under control!) You are taking us on an amazing journey and I'm loving every minute of it. So, what brilliant remarks can I come up with? Absolutely none, damn it!!!

So I'm going to take the lazy way out and let you do most of the talking!

Tara walked languidly to the sliding glass doors and stretched. Where the room had once been steeped in darkness and the moon glowed blue, the morning brought the warm golden rays of the sun and the promise of a new day. She opened the door and inhaled deeply, taking in all that the morning had to offer. Everything seemed different today. The sky was bluer, the grass greener and the flowers brighter. She looked up at the trees as they swayed in the crisp fall breeze. Tara noticed how the light rained down through the leaves; they sparkled a brilliant shade of green, which reminded her of Willow’s eyes. She was suddenly flooded with images of the person that those hypnotic eyes belonged to and the night they’d just shared. A small smile graced her lips as she wrapped her arms around her body and began to sway in rhythm with the trees.

Simple, beautiful prose: the world transformed through love!

Pee business: real life and real funny!

Tara continued to lightly tease Willow with her tongue as she removed her fingers from her girlfriend. Willow’s feet slid off the counter and dangled loosely over the side of the counter as she slumped back against the mirror, still panting heavily. Tara finally sat up on her knees and gently caressed the tops of Willow’s thighs as a dreamy smile graced her glistening lips; clearly proud of her accomplishment.

“What are you thinking?” Tara asked the bleary eyed redhead.

“That I need to wipe down your countertop,” Willow panted, as she held a hand out and cupped Tara’s cheek.

Tara laughed softly, taking Willow’s out stretched hand and placing several kisses across her knuckles.

“Is that really what you’re thinking?”

“No,” Willow said, her eyes still locked with Tara’s, “I was thinking, that it’s your turn now.”

“Oh…”

Weaving hotness and humor and love together so skillfully – WOW!!!

Finally, the paparazzi at the gate – ominous!!!!

Beautiful writing!

Thank you!

Ariel

[nightmask]

hold on.... -arranges pillows on floor- ok let's read!

.... few seconds later.....

-falls off of bed onto pile of pillows and scares the shit out of the dog-

!@#$%^&*() WOW bathroom sex and chinese food always good lol I'm definitely loving this new chapter!

[bouncer73]

WOOOO and A HOOOO..

That simply was amazing....I had to re-read it twice..maybe its the perv in me but that was awesome...

I so look forward to sundays.this is better then any show on tv.

Great JOB...gonna go take a nice COLD shower...

[beautiful_love]

Another fabulous chapter. So happy to see the update. Your description of Tara standing in the door way was just a perfect summary for this. Just like everything is right in the world. I was a little curious as to how you were going to handles the reporters and I'm still perched on the edge of my seat here as to what happens next.

I don't even have a comment about the gratuitous sex scene because everyone else has already said it all. Great update!

[DaddyCatALSO]

Darn this concussion. I come back and I've missed the good stuff.

[Gaga01]

That was an awesome chapter! I really love the girls together, and that scene in the bathroom was so hot I hope the paparazzis didn't get a glimpse of Willow when they were outside...those people can be anywhere! across the streets, the sidewalk, hidden in a tree...

The chapter with the costumed party was so much fun! I would die if I'd attend such a party...(I'm a cinema student so hey, who knows? )

Can't wait for next chapter!!

[BeMyDeputy]

Huh, I seemed to miss leaving feedback on the first round of sex, despite the fact I read it right away. Something must have distracted me. Brain turned to mush or something. I blame the thought of Aly in just a tie...

Oh, right. I was leaving feedback.

Rereading just now, I noticed this line:

[Tara:] “You’re so beautiful. Do you know that?”

What I liked about it was that it's taking a sentiment expressed all the time in stories around here, but in this story it's different: Tara makes a living in part off the fact that she's beautiful. She's used to the idea. Of the two of them, it's Willow who has heard it the least. And I thought that was pretty cool.

I didn't realize it until you pointed it out, but once you did, this made me squirm:

her makeup smeared

Ah! Makeup in bad places! Makeup in bad, bad places.
Now, I don't wear makeup, nor have I dated anyone who does, but as mentioned, the thought makes me all squirmy. I doubt stage makeup has been safety tested for vaginal application. Ew. Just . . . ew. (Yes, yes, caught up in the moment, blah blah, I'm way too caught up reality, boo hoo. But still. Also: the poor sheets!)

just fucked look.

I remember the first time my fiancé used this phrase, so seeing it brought a smile to my face.


I would say I hope that paparazzi leave them them alone but a) that would be unrealistic and b) that would be boring. Woo! Conflict is interesting!

Anyway, awesome reads. Keep it up.

Or we'll get you.

[vampyregurl73]

Shel,

Yes, ma'am!

Tara standing naked taking in the air, Willow on the bathroom counter, on the rug... mmmm... good stuff.

I love how you had Tara deal, or lack thereof, the press.

I was with Willow when she wished Kelly would decline and leave them alone for food, but you know, what are ya gonna do?

Your Guild card comes fully laminated, btw, and ready for framing. LOL

Can't wait for more.

[JustSkipIt]

Ahhh. The gratutious morning-after-sex sex update. Wonderful. Re: both parts - I'm impressed that both of them are so comfortable with their own bodies and making love without it seeming like they're... I don't know professionals or something. Sometimes reading fan-fic makes it seem very "considerable skills..." etc. but this was sort of enthusiasm built out of genuine love and lust. I sort expected some sort of "tell me if I'm not doing this right... cause I've never..." from Willow but either my guess was incorrect or she didn't feel the need to toss that out. And comfortable with their bodies in regard to nakedness as well. I've known people who could sleep with someone but woke up and put on clothes immediately. Actually I have a friend who started dating a women (V) and V could not pee at T's house. So they could come home from dancing, make out a bit, nap, and then V would go home to go to the bathroom. It took months for them to do anything significant or for V to feel relaxed. But they're together and expecting their second child after 15 years so I guess she got over it.

I'll say little about the morning after-funkiness beyond... ok, it's a thing with me. I'm a little over-showery and anti-funky. The sex sounded great in very very abstract. And I'm just imagining that between laying on the floor and searching for the menu they took a shower together cause otherwise, wouldn't Kel have like smelled them when she walked in the door? Eek.

Re: Paparazi. Yeah... wolves at the gate. Yeah. Willow's idea is sort of dumb so I feel like if the world finds out... whatever. As long as it doesn't cause them relationship stress I'm ok with it.

Anyway, I've got to get ready for work but I hope this fb a little makes up for my short one last week.

ETA: - Hmmm. I'd think the paparazi will stay for a while. How is Willow going to get in her car and drive home to do her homework or get ready for school tomorrow or whatever?

[JustSkipIt]

Oh yeah. I thought of this story when I was reading this story about Charlie Sheen not because Tara's like this (at all) but because of a comment she made earlier about all the people depending on her for their livelihood. It seems that a small part of the discussion about Charlie Sheen is about the # of people basically employed by the show, etc.

[Finey_McFine]

Laragh:
THE MIGHTY DIBS-MEISTER!!!!![b]

Sorry this took so long, I had to pause halfway through when I realised I forgot I was cooking dinner in my excitement to see an update and almost burnt the house down lol.

I am seriously going to worry about you now every time I post a new chapter!

I'm fully aware that they feedback to feedback wasn't aimed at me and I normally don't read your (or anyone's) responses to others 'cause I feel like I'm snooping lol but I happened to catch that and just had to say: the only thing gratuitous sex ruins is by abilty to have any higher brain function

You are correct, it wasn’t aimed at you or anyone for that matter. I love it too!!! I’m still not over your Willow and the car washing from HC…that’s going to stay with me for a very, very long time. But in a good way!

Haha. Early morning peeing antics.

I’m actually surprised that more people don’t write this into their fics. I always thought it was funny when they had sex all night, but never took a bathroom break, lol.

I'm so envious of their Chinese take-out (my dinner's burnt, thanks to you)

LOL, if you lived just a little closer to me, I’d order you some take out to make up for my burning your dinner!

Thanks Laragh…sorry about din-din:(


[b]Sierra:

Not to worry, Willow’s leg is fine…she’s pretty tough! As for the Paparazzi…it’s only just begun!

Thanks for reading!!!



SMGOVAN:

Kelly, Kelly, Kelly.... silly little assistant. Which one is it? Didnt see or didnt tell?

Well, in her defense, she was pretty hung over. Maybe she just didn’t see them??

Glad you liked the sexy stuff!!

Thanks for the feedback!!!

Zampsa19752001:

I liked their early morning activities... I hope the paparazzi's soon get bored and don't bother Tara so much and Willow can make her getaway without being spotted...

Glad you liked!! Unfortunately, they never tire form driving celebs crazy…it’s only just begun.

Thanks for the feedback!

KnightlyLove:

so Tara's okay with "coming out" AFTER meeting Willow's family?

Tara wants to come out, but she also wants to please Willow. The way the Paparazzi are stalking Tara…the ‘outing’ might not be by choice.

Thanks for the feedback!


indigokane:

DAMN!!!! if only the show had been broadcast on cinemax....

Hahaha…awesome! It would have put the L Word to shame!

Thanks for the feedback!



Promthea128:

Tara hid Willow from the Paparazzi, but was she quick enough?

Hmmm…one would think that their luck might begin to run out soon.

Thanks for the feedback!


LonelyTara:

Delightful...and now I want Chinese food...and the reason to want Chinese food...

Thanks! Funny you should say that because after I wrote the chapter, I ordered take out! lol

Thanks for the feedback!


wimpy0729:

Ahh, the morning after was just lovely. Shiny, happy day, and of course, the counter sex makes it even shinier and happier.

Well, everything except the counter…lol!!

Stupid papparazzi. Seems they need to keep a little better eye on the gate camera now. At least Tara got Will stopped in time and wasn't seen -- or was she? Hmm. Ooh, this is all so exciting.

Hmmm…we’ll have to wait and see. In the chapter after this next one, Willow gets creative and deals with them on her own special way.

Thanks as always for the feedback!!!


Ariel:

So, what brilliant remarks can I come up with? Absolutely none, damn it!!!

LOL

Simple, beautiful prose: the world transformed through love!

The world always look different in the morning.

Weaving hotness and humor and love together so skillfully – WOW!!!

Thanks!! Definitely my favorite part of that chapter.


Thanks as always for the feedback!! You inspire me to keep going!


nightmask:

falls off of bed onto pile of pillows and scares the shit out of the dog

Thank goodness you had pillow down there this time! Poor dog:( lol


Thanks for the feedback!


bouncer73

That simply was amazing....I had to re-read it twice..maybe its the perv in me but that was awesome...
I so look forward to sundays.this is better then any show on tv.
Great JOB...gonna go take a nice COLD shower...

Nothing wrong with a little perviness every now and then, LOL! Thanks for the compliment and hope the shower wasn’t too cold!

beautiful_love
THANKS!! I think you’re going to like the next chapter too!!


Silent_X

Your description of Tara standing in the door way was just a perfect summary for this. Just like everything is right in the world.

Thanks! I’m glad it came across the way it was supposed to. It just seemed so…Tara.

I think you did a great job balancing the emotional sensations with the physical in this chapter. The sex was yummy but never overpowered the emotional connections being made. I really like the way you describe the progress of their relationship, especially in these last few chapters. It's detailed and well-paced.

Thanks, it’s what I was going for and I’m glad it came across the way it was supposed to.

I was a little curious as to how you were going to handles the reporters and I'm still perched on the edge of my seat here as to what happens next.

Not in the next chapter, but the one after, Willow has her own unique way of dealing with them that I think you’ll enjoy:)


Thanks for the feedback!!!


DaddyCatAlso
You may have missed it, but it’s not going anywhere! lol

Gaga01

that scene in the bathroom was so hot

Yay! I’m glad it wasn’t too over the top.

I hope the paparazzis didn't get a glimpse of Willow when they were outside...those people can be anywhere!

I know, right? It seems like they’re everywhere.

The chapter with the costumed party was so much fun! I would die if I'd attend such a party...

This is a tad off subject, but I have a very good childhood friend that is a talent mgr in LA and he is always telling me about these parties. His college roommate was Leonardo DiCaprio’s personal assistant, so he’s a regular at Leo’s house. Then he married the daughter of a prominent actor. Let me just say this…that wedding was awesome!

Thanks for the feedback!!!


BeMyDeputy

Something must have distracted me. Brain turned to mush or something. I blame the thought of Aly in just a tie...

That was fun to imagine, wasn’t it? I don’t think that image will EVER leave my brain, lol.

What I liked about it was that it's taking a sentiment expressed all the time in stories around here, but in this story it's different: Tara makes a living in part off the fact that she's beautiful. She's used to the idea. Of the two of them, it's Willow who has heard it the least. And I thought that was pretty cool.

And that was EXACTLY the way it was supposed to come across. Thank You!

Makeup in bad, bad places.

Since this is fiction…I’m not even gonna to go there.

I remember the first time my fiancé used this phrase, so seeing it brought a smile to my face.

Hahaha…my wife proofs for grammar and I threw it in for her…one of her favorite lines, lol

BTW…the Paparazzi have only just begun their onslaught!

Thanks for the fb!!


Vampyregurl73

Tara standing naked taking in the air, Willow on the bathroom counter, on the rug...

Lucky for us they’re limber, lol.

I love how you had Tara deal, or lack thereof, the press.

This was born from seeing the many pics of Aly with her daughter. I mean, here she is just trying to do something normal like watching her kid ride her tricycle and it’s Paparazzi city. I have to hand it to her though, she is ALWAYS cordial and smiling. Which is exactly how Tara handles them.

Your Guild card comes fully laminated, btw, and ready for framing.

Excellent, I’ve already cleared a spot on the mantle!!

JustSkipIt

I'm impressed that both of them are so comfortable with their own bodies and making love without it seeming like they're... I don't know professionals or something.

I’m glad it played out the way it was supposed to, so no over the top theatrics and such. Your story about your friend and the peeing made me laugh out loud. That was insane! Sometimes there is that ‘morning after’ uncomfortable-ness, which I’d always imagined came from going from dark to light. In their case, Tara is used to being at least half naked in front of people because of her job and Willow because of her lifetime spent in the locker room. So, it didn’t make sense to have them suddenly get all shy and awkward.

I sort expected some sort of "tell me if I'm not doing this right... cause I've never..." from Willow but either my guess was incorrect or she didn't feel the need to toss that out.

They are in their 20’s, so we’re just going to assume, for the time being, that they both have experience. It might not be a lot, but experience nonetheless. I may or may not explore their past partners. I haven’t decided yet.

I'll say little about the morning after-funkiness beyond...

Well, they did ‘clean up’ after, even if it wasn’t an actual shower. But for you, we’ll assume that they showered. lol

Willow's idea is sort of dumb so I feel like if the world finds out... whatever.

I think Willow is just naïve and doesn’t realize that it’s going to be harder than she originally thought. To me, if she was really serious about keeping things on the DL, she wouldn’t have agreed to go to the party in the first place. I mean, Tara had to know what was going to happen. In the chapter after next, Willow gets creative when faced with them on her own and some light gets shed on her thoughts in regards to avoiding them.

Charlie Sheen…So, I’ve been following this story. Not because I’m a fan, because I’m not, but because he’s a train wreck and I just can’t seem to look away. It is interesting when you think about it. Here’s a guy that’s the highest paid sitcom star on TV right now and the more trouble he gets into, the higher the ratings go. If he was in ANY other profession…he would have been drug tested and fired on the spot. But because of the money aspect, they keep him on no matter what he does and continue to up his pay. It made me wonder…if it wasn’t drugs and he was outed as Gay…would they keep him? Would the ratings stay up? All food for thought.

love2003
Thank you!!!




[center]NEW CHAPTER DIRECTLY BELOW[/center]

[Finey_McFine]

TITLE: Racing The Rain

AUTHOR: Finey_McFine

RATING: R

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

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



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

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Happy Sunday Kittens! The next chapter is a bit emotional, hence the tile…this is what happens when you write on Valentines Day. Enjoy!

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

Chapter 20: Emotions

After lunch, Kelly curled up on the couch to watch TV, while Willow and Tara excused themselves and retreated back to the bedroom. They spent a little time quietly talking, but with their tummy’s full, they were quickly claimed by the sandman. When they awoke several hours later it was already dark outside and the house was quiet. Willow, being the studious planner that she was, caught up her schoolwork prior to the party and had given Miss Kitty plenty of food and water for a of couple days. With everything taken care of, she decided to stay over at Tara’s for another night. Willow had no intention of leaving Tara until it was absolutely necessary.

Tara was delighted that Willow decided to stay and secretly wished that she could stay every night. She knew, however, that it just wasn’t feasible. Even though they were now intimate, their relationship was still new and it would be presumptuous of her to assume that Willow even wanted to stay with her on a nightly basis. They both led very different and very full lives, but she was intent on making it work. They just needed time and the time they’d shared the last few days had been nothing short of perfect.

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

“Ummm, Tara. This is like heaven,” Willow moaned as the warm water bubbled around her, “I could totally get used to this.”

“Glad you like. Maybe this should be a regular thing for you after a game? You know, to soothe your aching muscles and such.” Tara said, dropping a not so subtle hint that she wouldn’t mind seeing more of naked Willow in her hot tub.

“Well, if you insist,” Willow grinned, “Tara, this has been the best weekend of my life.”

“Me too Will.” Tara replied as she smiled sweetly at her girlfriend.

Tara was sitting across from Willow on the other side of the expansive tub, enjoying the pulsating jets massaging her lower back while she gently massaged Willow’s feet. This was Tara’s sanctuary and Willow was the first person she’d ever invited to share it with her.

She was currently basking in all things Willow. Tara watched as Willow laid her head back and sighed deeply, tiny droplets of water cascading down her neck. The redhead stretched out and Tara watched as her rosy nipples broke the plane of water and peeked out just above the surface. Tara smiled and felt her body tingle. She wondered if the simple act of just looking at Willow would always elicit such a strong flurry of emotions within her. She imagined that it would.

Tara was worried, however, and internally cursed her life, knowing it would never be easy for them. She sat quietly, entertaining thoughts of leaving show business. What if I just walked away? It’s not like what I do is important and money would never be an issue. I’m an actor, for Gods sake, not a doctor or a rocket scientist. I’m famous for pretending to be someone else. Tara continued along that train of thought, contemplating her purpose in life. Her mind began to drift and she found herself thinking about things that she needed to tell Willow. She thought about the mistakes that she’d made and the secret she was forced to keep. How would Willow feel about her when she found out?

For the most part, Tara had lived an open and honest life. She’d had various hiccups and mini dramas over the years, but nothing as serious as what happened 8 years ago. No matter how hard she tried to put it behind her, she couldn’t. The pain and the guilt she still felt was palpable. She briefly considered not telling Willow, after all the only other person that knew was now dead, but she knew instinctively that she could not live with a lie and Willow needed to know. It was just a matter of finding the right time to tell her.

Willow noticed that the foot rubbing had stopped and she glanced in Tara’s direction. The beautiful blonde was lost in thought with a pensive look on her face as she sat and nibbled on her thumbnail. Willow sat for several minutes just watching Tara and wondered what had changed. Willow decided to intervene and bring Tara back into the moment. She sat up, pulling her legs back and began to slowly float towards her lover. She was almost right in Tara’s face before the blonde even noticed her presence.

“Hey you,” Willow said, with her hands gripping the rim of the tub on either side of Tara’s shoulders.

“Hey yourself,” Tara replied, reaching out to cup Willow’s face and kiss her sweetly.

“Is everything ok?” Willow asked.

Tara nodded her head, realizing she’d been caught, “Yeah Sweetie, everything is fine. I was just thinking about this week, lot’s going on, that’s all.”

Willow floated her body forward, wrapped her legs around Tara’s waist, sitting in her lap.

“Well, I don’t have practice tomorrow, if you can believe that and I was wondering if you’d like to come to my place? I’d like to cook you dinner, if you don’t have any other plans? Oh and maybe you can, you know… sleep over?” Willow’s voice was childlike and innocent causing Tara to practically melt.

“How could I say no to such an adorable face?”

“Mmhmm, you can’t…” Willow mumbled as she leaned in for a long luxurious kiss.

Willow pulled back and stared deeply into Tara’s eyes. She could feel the familiar butterflies in her stomach and the tingling in her chest; their connection was undeniable.

“Tare? I just wanted you to know that I um...I…” Willow tried to get it out, but here they were again, those confusing emotions.

“What?”

“…I just…”calm down and just say it dummy! But she couldn’t, not yet, “I wish we could spend more time together.”

“Oh Baby, me too. Our schedules are just so…full. I wish I could say that mine gets better, but award season is on the horizon and that means travel and press.”

Willow sighed, “I kinda feel like cosmic forces are working against us sometimes,” she dipped her head, trying to hide her crestfallen appearance.

Tara placed two fingers under Willow’s chin and raised her head, “Hey, how about we get out of here, dry off and talk, ok? We haven’t really done that and I think we need to.”

“Ok,” Willow smiled and kissed Tara deeply before rising and exiting the tub.

Willow grabbed two fluffy white towels, wrapping one around her wet body and handing the other to Tara. They finished drying, wrapping their hair up in the towels and walked hand in hand to the bedroom. They crawled back into the bed and snuggled side-by-side, facing each other and kissing lightly. For Tara, just the briefest contact with Willow’s lips was enough to set the fires ablaze. She knew if they were going to talk, that the kissing needed to stop.

“So, why no practice tomorrow? Don’t you have a game next week?” Tara asked as Willow idly played with Tara’s fingers.

“Yeah, on Saturday afternoon, but I think the coaches needed a break. Fall-ball isn’t a ‘real’ season. It’s a pre-season, kinda like spring training is for the major leagues, but it’s important because we get ranked by the NFCA.”

“And that would be sports speak for…?” Tara questioned.

Willow chuckled, “It’s the National Fastpitch Coaches Association. It’s kind of our governing body. Where we rank with them is very important.”

“And you guys are ranked…where?” Tara innocently asked, having zero knowledge of college sports or sports in general.

Willow found this highly amusing and giggled, “We’re #1 silly!”

Tara responded by rolling her eyes and shrugging her shoulders, “Willow, it’s like the equivalent of rocket science to me. I know it exists, but I don’t know the first thing about it.”

Willow sweetly ran her fingers across Tara’s cheek, “It’s ok baby, I’ll teach you. That is, if you wanna learn?”

“I do.”

“Ok, so where was I? Oh, schedules. Anyway, I need to warn you that mine gets worse, but not right away. When the pre-season is over in two weeks, we get a nice break until after the holiday’s. Then it’s a full court press. Regular season starts the second week of February, but leading up to it is a fairly grueling practice schedule, plus press, promotions…same as you, but obviously on a much smaller scale.”

Willow was on a roll, patiently explaining things in detail to Tara, who was thankful since this was her first foray into the world of sports. The more Willow talked, the more excited she became. Her eyes lit up and Tara could tell that it truly was the redhead’s passion, as acting was hers.

“So, regular season is much different than pre-season. We usually play 5-6 games per week and lot’s of double headers. Then there’s the travel, mostly around Cali, but we’ll be going on the road to Arizona, Oregon, Nevada and Oklahoma, if we make it to the World Series.”

“How long will you be gone?” Tara questioned, visibly sad at the thought of being separated from her girlfriend.

“The trips are usually 3 days/2 nights and on the bright side, if we keep up a winning record, we don’t have practice.”

“Willow, I’m exhausted just listening to this. When do you study?”

“On the bus, at the hotel and every minute in between,” Willow could see the wheels turning behind Tara’s eyes. “Tara, this is my life for the next 6 months, I’m constantly on the go. College ball is demanding, not to mention my commitments to Team USA, which run the summer. It’s one of the reasons I never dated anyone seriously. At least not until…”

“Until what?”

“Until I found someone that was worth sharing my life with,” Willow placed a soft kiss on Tara’s forehead and lovingly cupped her cheek, “Tara, in the past, I would date a girl for a few days, maybe a couple weeks, but I never felt compelled to make any real time for them. If it was convenient I would see them, but I never went out of my way and not one of them ever came to a game or even showed the least bit of interest. So, I would usually just cut them off a-and I know it sounds selfish, but quite frankly, I don’t really like to date. I’m a one woman-woman. Plus I told you about that whole ‘Lesbian dating circle’ thingy, too much drama. I’m kinda private and I don’t want everybody and their sister up in my business.”

“It’s ok Will, you don’t have to explain. I get it, I really do.” Tara said, lightly running her fingers through Willow’s damp hair.

“Baby, I’m serious when I said how much I care about you and that I’ve never felt this deeply for anyone before. I also really need you to know that it has nothing to do with who you are. To me you’re just Tara, the woman that makes me swoon every time she walks into a room and makes my heart practically pound out of my chest just by looking at me. So, I will do whatever it takes to make this work. You are so, so very important to me.”

Willow’s declaration cut straight to Tara’s heart and she could no longer hold back the tears that were stinging her eyes. One blink was all it took and the tears began to drip down her cheeks.

“Willow…” Tara’s voice cracked with emotion as she began to sob.

“Oh baby, please don’t cry. Shhhh…” Willow wrapped her arms around her girlfriend and an attempt to comfort the woman that held her heart.

“I’m sorry, I’m such a baby.” Tara sobbed.

“No honey, it’s ok. I’m here for you; I’m your safe place, where you can just be yourself and if you need to laugh, to cry or even scream. Whatever you are feeling, please don’t be afraid to share that with me.”

“It’s just that hearing you say those things to me, no one has ever touched my heart like you do and sometimes I just get
o-overwhelmed with those emotions. You are so sweet and caring and I just keep wondering what I did to deserve you.”

Willow inhaled deeply and took Tara’s face in her hands. She couldn’t understand why this beautiful, strong woman thought she was undeserving of her affection. At that moment, Willow felt a burning need to prove just how deserving Tara really was.

Both of their faces were slick with tears as they came together in a long searing kiss. Although they had kissed many times before, this kiss seemed different, full of hope and unspoken promises of things to come.

[Laragh]

DIBS!

Sierra:
Yay Dibs!!

Just giving away my dibs now, Shel?

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

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

“Baby, I’m serious when I said how much I care about you and that I’ve never felt this deeply for anyone before. I also really need you to know that it has nothing to do with who you are. To me you’re just Tara, the woman that makes me swoon every time she walks into a room and makes my heart practically pound out of my chest just by looking at me. So, I will do whatever it takes to make this work. You are so, so very important to me.”

Awe major swoonage!

Loved that chapter

Now I feel all warm and fuzzy

You, my friend, are a writing goddess!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I'm glad that they had the relaxing bath and wonderful talk afterwards... I'm happy that Willow basically said those 3 magical words to Tara without actually saying them...

[Sierra]

Laragh's right, it wasn't my dibs, but thanks, I'm sure someday I'll got one!

Bath time, hum... really relaxing.

I hope we'll know more about Tara's secret next chapter.

Great update, like always!

[wimpy0729]

Oh, that was just lovely. The tub and foot massaging sounds like heaven, and I loved Tara's offer of post-game soaking. Sounds like a wonderful plan to me.

Now my mind is going about 100 mph trying to figure out Tara's big secret. Can't wait to find out what that is, and what it could possibly mean for our girls.

And Willow's speech was absolutely beautiful, way too much to quote because every word was so heartfelt and perfect. If Tara could read between the lines, I'm sure she'd see "I love you, I love you, I love you". I have a feeling they won't be able to hold those words back much longer, and will burst if they don't let them out.

Can't wait to see what happens next!


Wimpy

[taranwillow4ever]

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

[Grimm]

Okay, at the risk of perpetuating the stereotype (about me being violent)..I'm gonna guess that Tara pulled a 187 on some perv who tried to date rape her (okay, clearly I have issues). But, whatever it is, how on earth did she keep her 'secret' out of the news (unless it happend pre-fame). Again I say, secrets are bad!! Gotta say, I have always been a Tara girl. But the way you write Willow has kind of made me have second thoughts...Eventhough she has problems saying the "L" (love) word, The way she comforts Tara is just the sweetest thing ever .

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

[indigokane]

ahhhh, nothing like a great update of a wonderful story to make a bad day melt away. but, oh the angst!!! a horrible secret? there are just too many possibilities!! death? drugs? naughty sex? ok, stopping with the guessing. can't wait for more.

[KnightlyLove]

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

[beautiful_love]

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

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

Defintely curious about Tara's secret though I can't even begin to venture a guess on what it possibly could be. I just hope whatever it is, it's not something that's going to be a deal breaker.

Looking forward to more.

[LonelyTara]

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

[love_2003]

Glad that they were able to talk and that even though they both have hectic schedules they are willing to do whatever it takes to stay together. Wondering what Tara's secret is.

[Ariel]

Shel,

Okay, they’re in the tub and I’m in the COLD SHOWER after mention of bubbles, nipples breaking the surface, and foot massage!!!

She was currently basking in all things Willow. Tara watched as Willow laid her head back and sighed deeply, tiny droplets of water cascading down her neck. The redhead stretched out and Tara watched as her rosy nipples broke the plane of water and peeked out just above the surface. Tara smiled and felt her body tingle. She wondered if the simple act of just looking at Willow would always elicit such a strong flurry of emotions within her. She imagined that it would.

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

HOKAY!!!!! Here’s what sent me back for my second COLD SHOWER:

Willow floated her body forward, wrapped her legs around Tara’s waist, sitting in her lap.

“Well, I don’t have practice tomorrow, if you can believe that and I was wondering if you’d like to come to my place? I’d like to cook you dinner, if you don’t have any other plans? Oh and maybe you can, you know… sleep over?” Willow’s voice was childlike and innocent causing Tara to practically melt.

“How could I say no to such an adorable face?”

“Mmhmm, you can’t…” Willow mumbled as she leaned in for a long luxurious kiss.

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

What was heart-melting was Willow’s declaration of who Tara is to her:

“To me you’re just Tara, the woman that makes me swoon every time she walks into a room and makes my heart practically pound out of my chest just by looking at me.”

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

Okay, I know you’re sick of hearing it but KEEP WRITING!

[DaddyCatALSO]

I can just see the pics in the tabloids; "Who is 'America's Swethearts''s mysterious sweethart?"

[Gaga01]

Aww, poor girls, I feel bad for them...why does everything has to be so complicated? I hope that it'll get better, but because of their public lives, I doubt it'll be an easy journey for them. I hope that the part where Tara will meet Willow's family is coming soon! That'll be so much fun!

*response to the out of subject: that is so cool! I bet the wedding was so awesome!!!

[vampyregurl73]

Shel,

Reality comes crashing in all to soon, doesn't it? Now it's up to you to navigate it for them - I can't wait to see what you do!

“No honey, it’s ok. I’m here for you; I’m your safe place, where you can just be yourself and if you need to laugh, to cry or even scream. Whatever you are feeling, please don’t be afraid to share that with me.”

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

I'm looking forward to how you have their first holiday with the 'rents, how Tara's "mystery" date will go down, and how you plan to work their strenuous schedules out.