Fic: By Chance

[Rachel o4]

Title - By Chance



Author - Rachel



Rating - G - Sorry for those who were looking for more



Disclaimer - All characters belong to Joss and ME, I just borrowed them



Feedback - That would be so great [Plz, Plz, Plz]



Notes - Updates may be few and far between so plz be patient with me.



Part One



Willow stared bored out the classroom window.



This is so boring. I can usually pay attention in class, even on boring days. I feel so torn, so lonely.



It had been about four months since Oz left. Willow still felt like a part of her had been taken away. Finally, after what seemed like forever, class was finally dismissed.



Now, thought the redhead, What should I do with the rest of my day. I have no more classes. Yes, free for the rest of the day. To do what? Wallow in self-pity? I've been doing that a lot lately. I really do have to move on, Oz is gone I guess I just have to accept that.



Willow, being caught up in her own little world didn't notice the blond that had been walking in front of her, had now stopped. Crashing right into her, books went flying.



"Oh my gosh, I am so sorry." A startled Willow started to apologize.

"I wasn't even looking as to where I was going. I was just thinking about...Thoughts and wasn't paying attention. I didn't even mean to run into you, here let me help you pick up your books. I should have been looking out for where I was walking. Again I'm really sorry."



Willow rambled on while she bent down to help the blond out, picking up her own books as well.



"I'll make it up to you. I'm headed to breakfast, kinda by myself, so...my treat. By the way, I'm Willow." The blond just smiled at the redheads babbling on.



"Umm..I'm Tara. I can't make it to b-b-breakfast with you now, I have a class r-r-right now, er about ten minutes." An embarrassed Tara cursed her stutter, having already caused a scene in the middle of the hall, she kept her head down trying to hide behind her hair, wishing the world away.



"But I'm free later on. There's a new museum that just opened up and I w-w-wanted to check it out but I haven't had the time. You could come with me later. You don't have to if you don't want to, I just thought it would be better if I didn't go alone."



"Sure." Replied Willow non-chalantly. "Sounds like fun. You can meet me outside my dorm around oneish. You can wait by the big water fountain." She said, still waiting for a sign of eye contact from the shy blond.



"Okay, that would be great I'll see you then." Tara cautiously looked up to Willow as if she was waiting for an ambush or something. Then she hurried down the hall, already late for her class.





Willow wondered to herself as she continued toward her dorm.



What should I do till Then?



Referring to going to the museum with Tara.



I can go to breakfast, or just pick up something. Then I could study for a while. That sounds like work. Well duh that’s what studying is. Great, now I'm having a conversation with myself. What am I coming to? It's not enough I ramble to anyone I talk to but now I'm rambling to myself. Anyways, I still have that paper to write for science.



Willow let out an exasperated sigh. Picking up some fruit and milk from the cafeteria, the redhead trudged to her dorm room.



I guess I could squeeze in some study and my paper in between doing all that nothing.



Surprisingly enough, Buffy was there, but by the looks of it, it didn't look as if she'd be staying long.



"Hey stranger, Didn't expect to find you here."



"Yeah well I figured I'd check in on you and see how you were doing. I do live here as well... Plus I was in need of a shower and a change of clothes before I went to Riley's."



"So your going to stay with him the rest of today and probably tonight also?"



"That's basically the plan. Speaking of plans, what's on your agenda for this lovely afternoon?"



"Well, I was going to study and work on this paper I have but I don't really see much of that happening anytime soon."



Buffy looked at Willow some what concerned.



"Hey. Is everything all right? I kind of feel bad leaving you alone here by your Willow lonesome. Tell you what, I'll cancel with Riley and we could get some movies and pizza tonight and just have a girl’s night in."



"No that's okay. You go have fun, I really should be getting this paper finished, all right." It was more of a demand than a statement. Willow didn't feel much to talking.



"Okay then, If you need anything I'm always here for you. I'll see you later." Buffy then was out the door before Willow could say 'bye.'



Letting out another sigh willow put her books on the nightstand, turned the radio on and plopped down on the bed. Looking at the clock, it was only a few minutes after 11:00. Willow looked at her book again.



That looks so not attractive. I really don't want to. This is starting to sound like deja vu in my head. I should work on it for a little bit.



Reaching for her books and her laptop Willow groaned to herself in protest. About five minutes into working on the paper, Willow pushed the books aside not being able to concentrate.



11:07

Willow thought looking at the clock.

I think I'll just lay here for a while. It seems like a much better option.

But soon the redhead was dozing off into a deep dreamless slumber.

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 12/3/02 2:00:26 pm

[MissQuirky]

I like it!! Can't wait 4 more!!

"In my world there are people in chains and we can ride them like ponies" -Vamp Willow (Doppelgangland)

[Rachel o4]

Part 2



Willow was awakened some time later by a tapping at the door.



Go away, I want to sleep. The redhead thought to herself. Stretching and pulling herself from the bed, she ambled to the door. Pulling it open, she found a slightly worried Tara.



"Tara!" Willow spun around looking at the clock. 1:17. Turning back around, Willow started to apologize.



"Tara I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to sleep so long or I didn't even mean to sleep at all. I was suppose to be studying and writing a paper but I really didn't feel like it so I decided to..."



Willows Ramble was cut short by the subdued laughter of the blond standing there.



"What?" Asked a puzzled Willow.



"Willowbabble." Was all the blond responded.



"Oh I'm sorry, It's just a..."



"No, it's ok...I like it." The blond smiled.



"Oh...uh come in I didn't mean for you to just stand out there. Let me freshen up and we can leave. Just wait here, I'll be right back."



Tara's smile slipped a little when Willow didn't return or even seem to notice her flirting.

Well done Tara, made a fool of yourself again. She wouldn't have an interest in you would she.



After a few minutes, the redhead reemerged into the room.



"So you waited a while for me?"



"Well actually, after you had left I realized that you hadn't told me what dorm you lived in so I had to go through the student directory to find you. Then I waited, when you didn't show up, I figured you had forgotten or you just didn't want to come, but I thought that I'd try my luck coming to your room."



"I guess we were both were lucky." Willow smiled. "So, I take it you like art, seeing that we are going to an art museum."



"Yeah, My mother loved art. Shed take me all the time." Tara looked down when she mentioned her mother. Willow noticed this.



"Loved?" She asked cautiously



"Yeah, She uh...passed about a year and a half ago."



"Oh I'm sorry." Apologized Willow, touching her arm in comfort.



"No, don't be sorry, she suffered and now she's at peace. I'm happy that she doesn't have to feel that pain anymore." Taking in a sharp breath and perking up, Tara changed the subject.



"So Willow Rosenberg, What about you? Do you like art?"



Willow was slightly thrown off by the sudden change of subjects.



"uh...I don't really know much about art and stuff. My friend Buffy, her mom worked at a gallery, but I really don't know much."



"That's ok I can teach you. My mother knew a lot about art and taught me what she knew." Willow caught the gaze of the blonds' blue eyes and smiled.



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



After hours of gazing at amazing pieces of art, Willow's feet couldn't take much more standing. Walking outside, they found a bench and sat down.



"So now what?" Questioned Willow. "I am in your debt all day you know." Tara laughed

"No, I mean it. Getting run over by a caught-up-in-her-thoughts redhead is not a normal part of a person's schedule. I mean, total chaos, people getting run over all the time, being late. It would not be a good thing."



This made the blond laugh even harder. Willow could feel her cheeks getting warm.



"I'm babbling again aren't I?" All Tara could manage to do was nod in agreement. She felt so comfortable in the company of the redhead. Surprising to herself she hadn't stuttered since the embarrassing incident in the hallway.



"Wow, its almost 5:00. I hadn't realized it had been more then three hours. I mean it didn't seem like three hours."



"You have somewhere else to be?" Asked Tara, Praying she could spend more time with her.



"Oh No, I'm just saying...I guess I'm saying I had a really great time today. Hey, how about dinner? My treat."



"Only if we can eat at the most expensive place in town. Like where you have to pay for the water and stuff." Tara smiled excitedly



"um...Well, maybe not that fancy but I will spring for Wendy's. What do you say?"



"Even better." Tara laughed, "I never did like those stuffy restaurants with their stuffy waiters." Tara illustrated by puffing out her chest and turned her nose up in the air trying to act snobby. Willow cracked up.



She is so cool, and funny and so great to be around. Wonder if she's dating anyone. She probably is, she's so pretty.



Willow's brow furrowed at this realization.



"Willow?"



"Huh? Er..Uh...What?" Willow asked confused snapping out of it.



"What were you just thinking about? I mean you made an expression." Willow smiled at this.



"An expression?"



"Yeah like your so caught up in your thoughts, you start making expressions. Like you just did."



"Oh it was nothing really. So how about that dinner now?"

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 11/18/02 4:49:44 pm

[xita]

Hey nice start! The bumping into each other approach works because that's the first contact w/t made on the show! Are you writing this on here or on word? It may help to write it on word, in case strict parents are about, or maybe you don't want to keep a record of it? I understand that too. It is really cute how Willow is counting the seconds, it would I think help your story if you explained what about this stranger has made such an impact on Willow. Keep writing!

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

"Oooh Xita!" - Amber Benson

[spazz07]

Definitely a nice start. I hope Willow doesn't oversleep it a bit. Just one thing, i'm not sure what the colleges are like in the US but i was just wondering how Tara would know what dorm Willow was in. Other than that, great stuff.



Cheers

Nath

If life was meant to be a bed of daisy's we'd have chicken crap thown on us all the time.

[snuggle79]

Very nice start! Can't wait for the museum meeting!

Oh baby, want me to rub your tummy? She likes it when I ... stop explaining things.

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

[The Next Tara Maclay]

Great ....story...

[Rachel o4]

Part 3





Willow looked up at the sky. A few more hours until sunset.

Standing up, the redhead felt the effects of the long day setting in.



"We still have a few hours until sunset. Do you want to do something after we eat?" Said Willow, voicing her thoughts.



"Well, I have classes tomorrow. Early ones. I like getting to bed early so I'm not a zombie, trying to pull myself out of bed in the morning."



Willows face dropped ever so slightly. Even so, Tara noticed. She had been watching Willow's face all day trying to read her thoughts and get to know her expressions.



"But you can come up to my dorm after we eat. It's not so late." Saying quickly, hoping Willow would accept.



"Are you sure? I mean I know what your saying. I'm a big fan of school. I'm like, 'Go school! It's your birthday!' Or something to that effect."



"No. It's fine really." Tara said smiling at Willow's school comment.



"Then great."



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



After eating, which took a lot longer than expected because of endless conversation, Willow and Tara strolled back to Tara's dorm.



"Wow, look at the sunset. So beautiful." Willow said breaking the comfortable silence between them.



Funny Tara thought I was just thinking the same thing about you. A smile crept its way to Tara's face.



"I wish I could paint it, like to keep this moment alive forever." Thinking more about her time with Tara than the sunset.



"It will...Right here." Tara said, putting her hand over Willow's heart. Willow smiled knowing Tara was right, putting her own hand over the blonds.



Tara's heart sped up upon Willow's touch. Willow didn't let go when she pulled her hand away.



So natural, so comfortable, so...



"Willow?" Tara interrupted the redhead's thoughts.



"Huh?" Willow replied, snapping back to reality.



"We uh... we passed m-my dorm." Tara said, hardly able to process the thought with Willow's hand still in hers.



"Oh." Was all she replied, thinking that at least meant more time with Tara.



Finally reaching their destination, Willow was the first to speak.



"Actually, now that I think about it, I should head back to my dorm now. It's not too much fun at night, this being sunnydale and all."



"Well, you could um... you could stay here."



"I don't have anything with me."



"That's okay, you can borrow what ever you need from me." The blond was already leading the redhead to her room.



"What about your classes tomorrow morning?"



"Oh...Well I'll leave you breakfast and what ever you might need and then you can just go when ever you please."



"Okay, but I have afternoon classes tomorrow so I probably won't see you."



Tara looked at the ground, letting her hair fall to hide her disappointment.



"Hey." Willow said softly.

"I had a great time today, and I really want to do it again some time." Willow brushed Tara's stray hair behind her ear.

"I mean it." looking in her eyes to show she meant it whole-heartedly.



Tara smiled. "Me too." Were the only words that would come past the huge lump in her throat.



Tara nervously tried to get the door to her room open. Finally after minutes of shaky hands, the door came open.



"There's water in the fridge along with some fruit and milk for breakfast tomorrow. Just make yourself at home while I get ready for bed." Tara explained opening her drawer. She pulled out a night shirt for both her and Willow.



"Here. Take this to sleep in. I'll get you some blankets and a pillow for you, unless..." Tara could feel her face get warm even before she suggested what she was about to suggest.



"unless, y-you don't mind sharing the uh...the bed." she finally finished, though it was barely audible, looking at the floor.



Willow's heart pounded in her chest.



"Um...that would be okay I guess." Willow choked out.



"Great. I'll be back in a few minutes." Tara said heading to the door.



Willow crawled into the bed after changing into the night shirt. Exhausted by the day's activities, she was asleep before Tara had returned.



The first thing Tara noticed was the peaceful smile on Willow's lips. She couldn't help but to stop and stare. Finally getting into bed and shutting out the light, Tara curled up under the covers.



"Goodnight sweet Willow." Tara whispered before drifting off to sleep with a smile.

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 11/18/02 4:52:30 pm

[MissQuirky]

Awww I loved this update, it was a sweet day out 4 w/t!! Can't wait 4 their dinner date!!

"W-well, I-I was wondering, maybe, you would wanna go out sometime? For coffee ... food ... kisses and gay love?" - Willow (Normal Again)

[spazz07]

Nice, and thx for clarifying a few things up for me Can't wait to read more



Cheers

Nath

If life was meant to be a bed of daisy's we'd have chicken crap thown on us all the time.

[thehighpriestess]

I love your story, so sweet! I liked the way Willow and Tara both really like each other but are convinced the other one is dating someone or not interested



Your storyline is brilliant. The only improvement I could suggest it to get it beta read for grammer. I'd be happy to take a look over it if you wanted, my email and IM should be in my profile



Can't wait for the next installment

WILLOW: Where would you go? If you felt lost
and alone? Where would you go?

TARA: To you.

[Rachel o4]

It had been two weeks since Willow had met Tara. They became good friends and the awkwardness had dissipated but neither of them had been brave enough to acknowledge the obvious attraction between them.



Willow was busy straightening up her dorm room with little help from the slayer who did more complaining than cleaning.



"I just don't see why you have to clean every time she comes over. She's friend right? So it really shouldn't matter." Buffy protested.



"I don't know. She's really special and I want the place to look good for her."



"So what are you saying? I'm not special?" Buffy joked, emphasizing with a playful pout.



"Of course your special but I've known you longer so it's like I know you won't care. Besides, you created most of this mess."



"Gee, Thanks."



"Anytime." Willow finished with a smirk.



Glancing at the clock for the millionth time, the redhead groaned inwardly, seeing that it was only about three minutes since the last time she looked.



"So, are you going to Riley's tonight?"



"C'mon Will, do you even have to ask that?"



"I'll take that as affirmative."



"Yep. Hey, I don't have any classes tomorrow, do you want to go to a movie or something, just us two?"



"Actually, I kinda had plans."



"Plans? You? Wow, this college life has gotten to you hasn't it?"



"Totally." Willow said with a hint of sarcasm.

"Now instead of studying alone every Friday nigh, I have a partner."

Referring to Tara, she thought of the irony of that statement.



"You've been hanging out with her a lot lately, huh?"



"Yeah." Willow replied, going into dreamy mode.

"She's so smart, she knows all this stuff and not just book stuff she knows about art and she loves nature, like hiking and fishing. Which is cool, except for touching them and those slimy worms, eww. And.."



"Willow, okay I get it." Buffy said to halt Willow in her non-stop ramble.



"Buffy, I really like her...I mean...Really." Willow said softly looking at the floor in fear and apprehension.



Buffy pondered this fact for a moment.



"Umm...That's...Great Will. I uh... think it's about time for me to head to Riley's. So I'll see you?"



Rushing to the door, Buffy didn't wait for a response.



Willow just looked at the door, which Buffy didn't even bother to shut, with mixed feelings. She could feel the shock and confusion swell in her eyes and run down her cheeks.

Getting up, she went and laid on the bed. She hadn't noticed Tara come to the door.



"Willow?" She inquired with concern.



Willow turned on her side to face away from her. She didn't want Tara to see her like this.



"Go away. Please. I just want to be alone now." she said softly.



Not listening to her, Tara went to the side of the bed and sat down.



"Willow, what happened." she probed cautiously.



"I don't want to talk about it."



Tara didn't push the redhead knowing she would open up when the time was right.



"Willow, it's okay." Tara put a comforting hand on Willow's shoulder.



"You don't have to be brave. It's just me here. I'll wait as long as it takes."



Willow turned over, her eyes were red and puffy with tears still rolling down her face. Tara pulled Willow into a warm embrace whispering, "It will be okay."



*******



Sometime within the next hour, Willow had finally calmed down.



"Feel better now?" Tara asked when all she heard from the redhead were the last remaining sniffles.



"No." Willow pouted. "Now I'm all tired and that didn't solve anything."



"Do you feel like talking?"



"Not really, I mean, not yet. It was just some stupid fight that Buffy and I had, except the actual fighting or anything else. It's kinda complicated, and I will tell you, but I just don't feel ready yet. If that makes any sense."



"It makes perfect sense." Tara pulled Willow into one last, quick hug.



"So, you feel like a movie?"



"Sure, I need something funny though, how about a comedy?"



"That sounds good. So do we want 'Sandra Bullock funny' or 'Jim Carry funny'?" Tara asked while pulling Willow off the bed to go to the rental store.



"Sandra Bullock. Definitely. Jim Carry is just too weird for me."



"Okay then, Sandra Bullock it is." Tara grinned as they made their way to the door.



"Oh and we can't forget the popcorn!"

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 11/18/02 4:54:03 pm

[snuggle79]

hey, an update!! Cool! Oooh, sleeping in the same bed already...

They are so shy around each other, it's really sweet!

Great update!

Tara:"Maybe we dreamed it."

Willow:"Right. Right. Wrong! (points at her head ) Different Brains." Tara:"Oh yeah."


Can we just skip it? Can...can you just be kissing me now?

[willntlover]

dude! There sleeping together! Yes, i get that it's not sexually, but still And then they get to wake up together This fic ruiles!!!! More soon??

-Will

"Hear that baby? You're my always."

"well, you know, when you play a lesbian witch you've gotta get killed in this fun kind of exciting way, so the heart was the way to go..."

"we have the most amazing fans though they LOVE us."

[thehighpriestess]

Hey, *rereads the last installment in surprise* they're sharing a bed already! This fic just gets cuter and cuter. Can't wait for the next installment

WILLOW: Where would you go? If you felt lost
and alone? Where would you go?

TARA: To you.

Edited by: thehighpriestess at: 8/12/02 7:25:58 am

[Rachel o4]

Riley was startled by the sudden knock on the door. Opening the door, Riley was surprised to see Buffy standing there.



"Hey. You're here early." Glancing at the clock he added, "A little too early...What's up? Spike giving you a hard time again?" He finished with his movie star smile.



"No, No spike." Said Buffy, walking past him and sitting on his bed.



"So what's wrong then?"



"Oh, it's nothing. Really. I'm fine. You ready to go yet?" Hoping her over reassurance wasn't as obvious as she thought it was.



"Uh..Well not quite, seeing that your kind of an hour early." Answered Riley, thrown by her question. Walking over to her, Riley sat down and took her in his arms.



"C'mon Buff. I think I have known you long enough that I can tell that something is on your mind."



Buffy took a deep breath and sighed.



"Well...Today Willow...She uh...She kind of..."



"Kind of..?"



"I think she kind of...came out to me."



"Okay...and?"



"Okay? How can it be okay?" Buffy broke from Riley's embrace and stood up to face him.

"I mean, my best friend. She's..." Buffy choked back the tears that were fighting to come out.



"So what? That's it? Your just going to say, 'Hey your gay, your not my friend anymore?'" Riley stood up and again wrapped his arms around her.



"She's still the Willow that you've always known and loved. Just because she loves someone doesn't change who she is. She's still your friend, and I think she needs you now."



Buffy thought about this.



"I don't know about that. I think I really hurt her feelings. I mean I just left. What am I going to say to her?"



"Well, first you go back and tell her how much you care about her, then you tell her you are happy for her and that you'll always be there for her."



"When did you become big knowledge man?"



"You'd be surprised at what you can learn with friends like you."



"But I don't know. I think it maybe a little weird, I did just storm out on her. I don't think I even shut the door." Buffy added as an after thought.



"I think everything will work out just fine. Now go make your amends." Giving her a kiss, Riley nudged her towards the door.



"Okay then. I'll call you later."



Buffy walked across campus thinking about the eventful day.



I've always been cool about people being gay, it had never bothered me. So why did I freak out on Willow like that? Maybe because she's like my best friend. I was shocked and scared. Maybe that she would change, not be her. I feel so bad now, I have to go apologize and make it up to her.



Breaking into a run, Buffy made a mad dash to her dorm room. She almost broke the door in trying to get it open.



"Willow?" Buffy called into the room. "Are you here?"

Not seeing the redhead, she tried looking in the bath room but to no avail.



Oh my gosh, what if she went and did something rash? What have I done? It's all my fault.

Almost on the brink of tears, a wave of relief washed over Buffy when she heard the door open and the sound of giggles.



"Willow!" Buffy ran to her and hugged her tightly.



"Buffy? What are you doing here?"



"Willow I'm so sorry about how I reacted it was just, I was afraid of change or something happening and you'd forget about me. I didn't know what to think when you told me..."



Buffy finally noticed Tara still standing in th door way.



"Oh I'm sorry, I didn't know..." Buffy tried to get out but Willow interrupted.



"Tara, I think that Buffy and I need to talk."



"Okay. Call me later?"



"You can count on it." Willow smiled. She waited until Tara turned the corner before shutting the door and turning her attention to Buffy.



"Willow I really want to say 'I'm sorry'. I didn't understand and I thought that..."



"Buffy listen, It may take some time but it will be okay. I promise."



"Thanks Will." Buffy pulled her into another hug.

"So, where did you guys go?" She questioned.



"We went to get a movie, which, by the way, she took with her."



"Oh. Have you told her yet? About what you feel?"



"No. I don't think I can. What if the feelings aren't there for her? What If I scare her away? I don't want that because she's a great friend too."



"You won't know until you try right? Do the talking thing. Just hope It goes over better than with me." Buffy smiled



"It's not just that. There are still some things that I haven't told her yet."



"You? Miss Babble-for-ten-straight-minutes-with-out-taking-a-breath girl." Willow had to smile at that one.



"I haven't told her about Oz yet. What if she takes it the wrong way?"



"Willow you have to be honest with her. That's part of the basis of a relationship, or even a friendship. Before you move things along, you have to tell her."



Willow sighed knowing that Buffy was right.



"Alright." she finally relinquished.



"Good. The you call her and tell her to bring that movie back while I have a date tonight with Riley so I will talk to you later. I want to know every detail when I get back."



Embracing her again, Buffy whispered, "Good Luck," before heading out the door.



"Thanks, I may need it." Willow whispered to herself as she picked up the receiver.



"Here Goes Nothing."

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 11/18/02 4:56:21 pm

[Centauri2002]

I just found this story and I think it's so cute.



The part in which they share a bed so soon reminds me so much of me and my best friend. Then again, she did end up being my girlfriend.



Anyway, I feel sorry for poor Willow... Buffy freaked for no reason and Willow's sensitivity took over. Thank the goddess Tara was there to give her hugs.



I look forward to the next update. Hopefully fluffyness will ensue.



Caz

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

[thehighpriestess]

Hey, great update as usual



And yes, I do realise it's only a story, but I was so mad at Buffy and the way she reacted to Willow. I totally have to agree with Centauri2002, thank goodness Tara was there, and all big with the caring hugs!

WILLOW: Where would you go? If you felt lost
and alone? Where would you go?

TARA: To you.

[jdcioffi]

Very cool ... I think it's important to get Buffy's reaction ... and I like how you've shown that the way Buffy feels about Willow really matters to ourt quirky redhead.



Great update. JD

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

[snuggle79]

Stupid Buffy, i didn't like the way she reacted...

Thank God, sweet Tara was there to comfort Willow.

Great Update!

Tara:"Maybe we dreamed it."

Willow:"Right. Right. Wrong! (points at her head ) Different Brains." Tara:"Oh yeah."


Can we just skip it? Can...can you just be kissing me now?

[MissQuirky]

Just got caught up!! This fic is just too cute! And sooo sweet!! Buffy was really cruel! I hope they talk it out and don't get all avoidy! I hope Will tells Tara soon or the other way round could work too! I need some smoochies! Can't wait 4 some more!

"Don't warn the tadpoles!...
I-I have frog fear."

[Rachel o4]

Willow's pulse raced as Tara's phone rang.



"Hello."



"Um...Tara? I noticed that when you left, you kind of took our movie with you, so if you're not busy, do you want to come over? Or I could go over there if you want."



"Everything is okay with you and buffy?"



"Keen as peaches." Tara could almost hear Willow's smile



"Great then, I'll be over in a bit."



As Willow hung up the phone, she could feel the butterflies in her stomach turn to birds.



Maybe I should have made Buffy stay. No, no, because then if something awful happened she'd feel awkward, not that it wouldn't be awkward if Buffy wasn't here, just that it would be more awkward. But nothing bad is going to happen, right? Yes, everything will be okay.



Tara was halfway to Willow's dorm when she finally realized she had forgotten the video.



Great. Now I have two choices: one I just go back and get it or two I just keep going and pretend like I don't know what she's talking about, which doesn't make one bit of sense to begin with because for one reason we both went and got it and another reason is that she asked me to bring it over. The whole reason she called.



With an exasperated sigh, Tara turned back to her dorm. Now she was irritated and wanted all the more to see Willow. She hurried down the hall to her door.



Why did I even bother locking it? She thought as she fumbled with the keys.



This is sunnydale, I mean there's a lot more to worry about here then burglars. But even so...



Tara ran out of her room after she grabbed the tape. Running across campus, her adrenalin was pumping more for the thought of seeing Willow than it was for running, she hadn't even noticed the funny looks from a couple of passing pedestrians.



Tara knocked on Willow's door, trying to catch her breath while waiting.



"Tara? You're all out of breath and sweating."



"Yeah well, I was half-way here when I realized I had forgotten the video."



"Oh. Well come in and I'll get you some water."



Willow stood aside to let the flushed blond in.



"You can sit on the bed if you like." Willow prompted, motioning towards the bed.



Tara make her way to the bed while Willow went to the fridge to get her water.



"Oh Willow, we forgot popcorn."



"Here." Willow pulled some change from her pocket.

"I think there's some in the vending machine." But popcorn was one of the last things on Willow's mind. She put the glass of water on the night stand and sat down on the bed, putting her head in her hands.



Tara had noticed Willow's lack of peppy Willow-ness from the start but upon re-entering, unbeknownst to Willow, she knew something was up.



"Willow, is something wrong?"



I guess it's now or never. Of course the latter looks better than the former right now.



"Tara, there's something I need to tell you."



Tara's brow furrowed in confusion.



"We're friends right? like great, best of, soul-mate friends, and well, that has to be built from trust, among other things. Not that I've lied to you or anything, it's just that I haven't been completely honest, which sounds kind of like an oxy-moron doesn't it? But what I mean is that I haven't told you everything about me or at least something that was a big part of my life."



Willow paused, looking for a reaction or hint of what Tara was thinking. Tara just looked at Willow patiently, letting her tell everything she needs to tell.



"About five months ago, I had a rough break-up with someone. His name was Oz. We had dated for about two years and he was my...um, he was my first, and we had something great, but it was different, different than what we have."



Willow tried to see an emotion but Tara just sat there for a moment, looking at her feet, taking this new information in.



What was I thinking? Thinking I had a chance. Goodness Tara, haven't you learned by now.



"Tara?" Willow probed gently.



"Willow, I have to go." Tara said softly.



"Tara wait..." Willow pleaded.



"Willow, I must go, there's something that I have to do." Tara said thinking, that she actually had nothing to do but had to leave before the embarrassment went any further. Tara got up and walked to the door, looking back at Willow as she left.



Willow just sat in shock. She felt the familiar burning of tears that arose. Laying down, she curled into a ball and thought,

It's going to be a long night.







Tara took the long way back to her dorm, around most of the campus. She needed time to think, try to sort things through.



Why didn't she tell me sooner? Get my hopes up, thinking I had a chance. If she would have told me sooner none of this would have ever happened. Yeah, that's it, it's her fault. She didn't tell me... Okay Tara that's ridicules, even for you. It had just never came up that's all. So, why did she bring it up just now, out of the blue? Why did she make it a point to tell me now? You are such a doof, you should have been her friend and you should have gotten more answers, but instead you were thinking with your heart instead of your brains.

Should I go back? No, I can't. Not after what I put her through but I must make it up to her. I still want to be her friend.



A thought clicked in her head.



Of course! Why didn't I think of doing this before? Well, for one we haven't fought so I didn't have to make amends to begin with.



With her new idea, Tara started running back to her dorm to get the things she needed.



Willow's going to love this.

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 11/18/02 4:59:59 pm

[MissQuirky]

Yes I'm all w/ feelin blessed!! Great update! I'm glad Buffy and Willow made amends! I'm happy Riley was there to knock some sense into Buffy! I really can't wait 4 Will to tell Tara! Ah now i want more, well i guess i can be a good lil girl and wait! Just don't let it be too long away!

"Don't warn the tadpoles!...
I-I have frog fear."

[Rachel o4]

Willow's mind did about as many flip-flops as her stomach.



All wrong. It was all wrong. Was about the only thing Willow could think.



It had been about two hours since Tara had left. Willow didn't know what to do.

She sat up when she heard the door open.



"Tara?" Was her first response.



"Nope. It's just me." Buffy replied.

"So, how'd everything go?"



"Oh it was so awful Buffy. I had told her about Oz, sans the werewolf part, but it was like I struck a nerve or something with her. She said she had to leave and then she just left. I don't know what to do know. I think I've ruined everything."



"You didn't ruin anything, you just hit a snag. Just go and talk to her. Let her tell you what she feels."



Willow sighed in resignation.



"It's kind of late now, why don't you call her tomorrow?"



"I don't know, I have classes most of the day."



"Yeah, but that's not all day, now is it?"



*******

That night was long and restless. Willow woke up tired and achy. She couldn't concentrate at all. She was nearly late for class and didn't eat any breakfast.

After a long day, Willow was ready to sleep for the next two days. Leaning up against her door, trying to unlock it, Willow felt she could fall asleep right there.

She went to the fridge to get some water and some food, it had been hours since lunch.

Willow then noticed a square package and an envelope on her bed. Her brow furrowed in confusion and curiosity.

"Huh." Willow grunted. Taking the package, she inspected it carefully before tearing open the plain brown wrapping.





Gasping at the incredible piece of art she held in her hands, Willow felt tears sting her eyes. What she was holding was a framed painting of a sunset. She marveled at the way the oranges and purples (and a few unnamable colors) were splashed across the canvas.



After a few more minutes of awed admiration, Willow put the painting aside and picked up the white envelope that sat across from her.



Taking the short letter out of the pocket, Willow read:



Dearest Willow,



I'm terribly sorry for the way I reacted. I should have been a better friend instead of losing my head like that. I just got kind of jealous. I hope you like the painting. I had remembered the first day we met, you said about wanting to paint the sunset to keep the moment forever. My mother had taught me a little about painting before she died and I wanted to share that with you. I hope you'll consider this apology and I want to see you soon.



Love,

Tara.



*******



Any fatigue that Willow had felt earlier was now a forgotten thing of the past as she made her way quickly across the college campus.



Upon arriving at Tara's door Willow stopped a moment to catch her breath. She looked at the door with many confusing feelings welling inside of her. Knocking on the door, Willow thought she would pass out on account of lack of oxygen and not just from the running.



After what seemed like an eternity, Tara opened the door.



"Willow. Hey."



Before Tara could get anything else out, Willow's emotions exploded and impulse took control. In that split second, Willow took her in her arms and captured Tara's lips with her own.







Breaking from the kiss, Tara stood there in breathless awe and surprise.



"Woah." She said breathlessly.



Now realizing the full impact and consequences of her actions, Willow took a step back and focused on the floor.



"I uh...got your painting."



"Oh, did you like it."

I'll have to paint for her more often.



"Yes, very much so. I'm actually kind of surprised that you had remembered that I had said that."



"I remember everything you say." Tara flashed Willow a shy, heart-melting smile.



"Listen," Willow started,"about what I did, I'm sorry, I just.."



"I'm not sorry." Tara interrupted, looking at the floor, letting her hair fall, in front of her face.

Willow smiled as she felt her face heat up.



"Then, maybe, you'd like to...umm, go to the movies or something tomorrow night...Like a date?" Willow asked hopefully.



"I'd love to."



"Great." Willow said a little over-enthusiastically.

"Is seven okay?"



"Seven sounds perfect."



"Okay, I'll pick you up at seven then." Willow backed towards the door, wanting to tell Buffy and find something to wear, even though the date wasn't until tomorrow.



"Great."



"I'll see you then."

Willow practically skipped all the way back to her room.



"Hellooo." She sang as she opened the door.



"Well hello to you too. What's with all the happiness?" Buffy inquired.



"She said yes Buffy."



"Who said yes to what?"



"Tara said yes to a date." Willow danced around the room to an inaudible melody.



"Congrats. Where are you guys going?"



"I think dinner and a movie or the other way around, I'm not too picky."



"Sounds like you two are going to have much fun."



"I know. Isn't it great? What am I going to wear?"



"When is this date?"



"Oh only about 22 hours, you can never be too ready, you know?"



Buffy smiled and shook her head at Willow's excitement and eagerness.



"I think you should get a good nights sleep first, and then think about everything you need to think about, tomorrow."



"I couldn't sleep, not tonight."



"Well you should try, you don't want to be all tired for your date tomorrow night, now would you?"



"Fine, fine. I'm going to bed." Willow said in resignation.

"But no promises on sleeping."



Buffy shut out the lights as they both got into bed.



"This is so great, Buffy. I don't know why I didn't say anything earlier. I mean I knew it was there, I just felt wierd or something. It was all new to me. I really like her and I think we have something great but what if I screw it up? What If I go and do something to make her mad and she leaves me? What if..."



"Willow! You're not going to make it until morning if you don't shut up." Buffy said playfully.



"Sorry, I'm just really excited."



"I know. And we'll have all day tomorrow to be excited but for now can we just get some sleep?"



"Okay. Good night Buffy."

Edited by: Rachel o4 at: 11/18/02 5:05:43 pm

[MissQuirky]

Wha?! OMG!! Need more!

"Don't warn the tadpoles!...
I-I have frog fear."

[eccentrictulip]

oh....you can't leave it like that!!!! what a cliffhanger....i lve this fic though--so honest and very swee & true to the characters update soon? maybe? please?

*please use both hands....*

[Thanatopsis]

I just got caught up and OMG, you can't leave it right there.

--------------------
Insist upon yourself and never imitate. -Ralph Waldo Emerson

[thehighpriestess]

You cannot leave it there!!!! Just think of all us poor kittens sat on the edge of our seats waiting for the next installment.



I absolutely loved the line, 'Miss Babble-for-ten-straight-minutes-with-out-taking-a-breath girl’ So totally Willow

WILLOW: Where would you go? If you felt lost
and alone? Where would you go?

TARA: To you.

[spazz07]

little ol' unobservent me hadn't even noticed you had updated and now i've caught up you leave us there arggh Update soon, my buts hurting from sitting on the edge of my seat



Cheers

Nath

Isn't it funny how you feel your most tired five minutes before you have to get up.

[vix84]

Must have Tara and Willow together now! We've waited two pages too long!