New Fic - Neverland

[irishgrl3]

YAY, Heather an update!!!

First, I hope all is well with the family! How's the summer treating you?

Wow, I could feel Buffy's tension all the way over here... I am curious to see what she is going to do... I wonder, will she confront Tara?
Tara seems to be a such a good head space right now about Willow, a call from Buffy might be disastrous. Doubts reappear, and Willow and Tara go back to second-guessing each other again... Noooooo Heather! Don't let it happen LOL! hehe

I always enjoy when you write Tara into Willow's dreams. How she would rather stay there because Tara is "mine" there. Very nice with Tara saying "No?" and leaving that little inkling of hope that Tara is indeed hers on the outside.

Great update and as usual can't wait for the rest of the ride!
Take care,
-anna

[Grimm]

I'M NEW TO THE BOARD. I LOVE THIS STORY!! IT IS BY FAR, THE BEST STORY I HAVE READ IN THE 10 MTHS THAT I HAVE BEEN READING AU/FANFICTION. HOPE 2 SEE ANOTHER UPDATE SOON.(SORRY ABOUT THE CAPS. IM A TERRIBLE TYPER)

[truck_driving_magic_mama]

first, I'm sorry guys for bumping this..

now.. I've been very naughty and lacking on feedback, but rest assured, I'm waiting (almost) breathlessly for every update. I've read this one at the peak of my exams period, and it just made my day. week even.. so thank you.
about the actual chapter.. wow. I growled in frustration at Buffy's conclusions (not that Tara's in love with Willow, of course, but that she's building herself up for a heartbreak.. ) and squeed shamelessly at Tara's conteplations.. espescially the fact that she's willing to wait for Willow instead of getting pissy with her at all the time she's held back. I just loved it.. in fact, I think I'm gonna reread it now. lol. either way, thank you for writing this. I've been reading this story for 6 years now, and it's one of those consistant things I'd never give up on.. I remember blowing off my first classes in high school every monday morning when you updated every sunday, just to read it. I've gone through 2 years of military service, a couple of years of work and the first year of UNI since. crazy, right?

so anyway, thank you Heather.


Melissa

[Phoenix]

Hi! Oh my gosh, Neverland's 6th birthday is coming up in just under three weeks! (I wish I were well-versed in the art of throwing e-parties!) Congratulations on keeping us all spellbound for so many years with this beautiful story, and a sincere thanks for the many hours of happiness it has provided.

Speaking of happiness . . . ! I think this latest update (which I only caught up on recently and have now read--oh, yes--three times and counting) may be one of my favorite chapters in the story so far. They really are "shifting out of neutral"! And I have to say, thank you thank you thank you for keeping the angst to a minimum for this chapter. I've begun to hold my breath any time Willow or Tara starts to have a breakthrough because it's often so instantly shattered . . . but this chapter . . . this wonderful chapter! When Tara, musing over Willow's phone call to Xander, thought, "Was she talking about me?" I swear I had to stop myself from actually shouting out loud "YES, YES, YES!"--both as an answer to Tara's question AND out of sheer celebration! The pieces are falling slowly, surely, tantalizingly, breath-holdingly, heart-poundingly, beautifully into place.

So, thank you. Keep up the amazingly good work--the marvelous storytelling, the characters' poignant thoughts, the impressively well-crafted dialogue, all of it. . . . Six years out, it's still a delight every time, and I'm all smiles in anticipation of what's to come.

[wimpy0729]

Oh Heather - welcome back, my friend. Isn't it exciting to watch the little ones as they grow - which is way too fast. Seems like mine was just learning to walk, and now he's driving - Yikes!

As usual, It's always wonderful to see this updated. Very interesting to see how everyone's thoughts are running through their heads as they greet the day. Of course, Willow's dream in particular, including a nekkid Tara, definitely put a smile on my face. I wish I had dreams like that.

I must say, things like this paragraph is a perfect example of why I love your writing so much.


"Tara coasted into consciousness like a duck landing on a glassy lake, gentle ripples moving outward as her senses slowly woke and evaluated the new day. Her ears taking in the soft tap of rain against the window, her eyes noting the muted morning light beyond her closed eyelids. She sighed and stretched, her toes slipping across cool sheets, her hands running over her flannel covered thighs. She brought her hands up over her hips, settling to a stop on her lower belly, her fingers resting against her cotton sleep shirt and a small patch of exposed skin. She shifted her head slightly, the rustle of the pillow below her messy hair gentle and cozy, and with a couple of quick blinks, she opened her eyes to the day."

Your ability to use words and imagery is simply amazing.

So, ok, I know your little guy keeps you busy and all, but can Willow pleeeeze come out soon?!! This is driving me beyond crazy - well crazier than I already am.

Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful story with us.

Take care,
Wimpy

[pipsberg]

Hi! So first off, sorry for a big omission on my part - I did not leave feedback on your last update!!! I feel like such a poop head! I assume I shared with you my feelings on that update because I remember the update and us talking about it... regardless, I was a poop head for not putting it in writing. I like to leave feedback for you

On to this update...

I loved it! Introspective Buffy is awesome. You write her so well. I think Buffy is one of those characters that can be taken in so many directions - stubborn, angry, even vacant... but you make her as complex as I imagine she really is (if we could see into her head). I loved following her express train in the wrong direction of thought. Boy does she have a surprise coming for her. I suspect it isn't going to be pretty...

And our girls... *sigh* and *heart flutter* It makes me feel like I am living all those same moments over again myself - the flirting, the hesitation, the second guessing. It's really exhilarating and real and you are amazing in your ability to capture it so well. They are on that precipice and about to fall right over, hopefully into each other arms...

With that said, Willow's coming out is just around the corner and... well, that gives me the tummy rumbles! If her coming out is anything like the ones I have had or seen, it may not be fun! But as we all went through, she has to and it may hurt for a while and then she will be whole and hopefully able to embrace the love Tara has for her.

I am so greedy for the next update, but of all people I know how crazy busy your life is and I wait, patiently, adoringly and hopefully. Love you lots and congratulation on another amazing update. xoxoxo pips

[Naeryn]

So, I've been away from the board for awhile. Like, a long while. Two years or so. Maybe a little more.

And at the time that I left, there hadn't been an update to this story in nearly a year. So I come back after all this time, and lo and behold, one of my all-time favourite unfinished fics has not one, not two, but at least seven (count it, SEVEN!) lengthy updates that have successfully kept me up until three thirty in the morning.

And how you do love to torture our girls (and us) don't you, Heather, my dear? You communicate their tension so well, so artfully, let me say, I could relate to every moment of these latest chapters. From Tara's calling Willow a 'cute girl' to the gentle, flirtatious and hopeful thoughts of their most recent morning-time, it's painful, heartwrenching, and intense to read.

You really run the gamut of human emotion, don't you?

I wanted to give you specific kudos on your handling of the Willow-Tara-Morgan awkwardness. I could relate totally to Willow's feelings, both that she needed to be as far from the two of them as possible, to her intense need to (for lack of a better term) cock-block, and the extreme paranoia involved therein. I actually found myself living with my ex (whom I still had feelings for) and my other ex (whom I could no longer stand) while they two were fooling around behind my back... it was yet more complicated even than that, but I'll not get into it. At any rate, having been in that sort of situation repeatedly myself, I can say that you handled Willow's feelings and reactions most excellently.

And then to come home to a nice romantic power outage, and a gorgeous Tara being all emotionally naked with you, FOR you...

Well, let's just say that Willow isn't the only one familiar with the feeling of jealousy.

Marvellous updates, m'dear! Can't wait for the next one, for Buffy to FINALLY come back from visiting Dawn, and for Willow's mother to FINALLY show up - you know, I'm not even that nervous about her reaction anymore. I was, three years ago, when I started reading this fic, but now? The tension is killing me! I don't care what she does, I just want it to be over! (I suspect that same feeling is what made me eventually come out of my own nice, comfortable little closet...)

Bring on the updates! Pretty please?

Oh - and I know it's beyond belated, but congrats on the updated family situation! I'm glad things are going well for you on the home front.

Sitting on the edge of her seat and praying she doesn't fall off,
Naeryn.

[edob]

ditto to to what naeryn posted, times alot....

[bluewillowwitch]

So OMG! I just finished reading all of this story. I can't believe that you are such a tease! So close yet so far. I LOVE IT! I want more more more!

I have to say that I love the fact that you are taking your time to get them together. I feel more invested in them this way. It will just make the eventual that much better!

[LittleBit]

For some strange reason I was not notified in July when you made your last update!!! It was fabulous! I love how Tara in particular is finally getting a clue. But I also understand why she just doesn't want to jump in both feet - placing one-self in such a position is incredibly vunerable but eventually one must in order to fully appreciate all there is to know about love!

Willow becoming more Willow-like is like watching a kid in a candy store ... pure, unadulterated joy!

Buffy getting a clue and then completely missing the point .... priceless!

Please update in the most timely fashion you can manage (but know that I wait with baited breath for each update!).

[Mrs. Pineapple]

BUMP! *Sigh* at risk of sounding totally desperate... *pouts* update please?

[EasierSaid]

Zampsa1975 I love your feedback - full of hope! I think the new touch-y feel-y relationship is just getting started; lots of room there for those two to grow. As for Sheila and Buffy... only time will tell there. One thing that's for sure, coming out never goes the way you expect it will; there are always surprises. (Even if the surprise is that it happened pretty much how you thought it would go, if that's not too much of a contradiction.) Suffice to say, it's just something Willow needs to go through to become her true self. Hopefully you'll enjoy the journey. Thanks so much!

The Best Name On The Site Hallelujah to revelations after 53 chapters! Sheesh, took them long enough. And yeah, it's more or less a month, with I think the bulk of the story covering two weeks time. (I haven't checked the timeline in a while, but that seems right.) Thanks re: the sleeping child. He's such a good boy, even though it seems like he can take or leave naps at the moment! Sounds like you have your hands full with kids, too! I still find it funny that in all likelihood, in fifteen years or so I'm going to be working to wake him up rather than get him down to sleep. Very funny, Mother Nature. Thanks so much for the kind words and please enjoy the next bit.

FIRESIGN Thanks so much Cin! I really appreciate the encouragement and kind words!

Sanpfa Aww, lurve is in the air! That's very cute, thanks for taking time out from the mushiness to read this little tale! I like to think that some of Tara's "awakening" is her finally hearing the chorus of Neverland readers shouting at her. Thanks so much.

taranwillow4ever Thanks so much, I'm so glad you feel like their thoughts and feelings are resonating. That means a lot. And don't I know it about blinking and him being a big boy! It already feels like that sometimes... /sigh

Codyteddyh Time being the operative word! (Both theirs and mine!) Thanks so much.

SylverMaki Hehe that's some squee! One more day of Straight Willow indeed then it's on to the Sheila/Buffy talks; I think Willow hopes for your scenarios too! And I think it's safe to say there will be several lengthy Day in the Park updates. I very selfishly want to experience that day too! I like the way you put it too, very funny. Ah, love. So wonderful, so miserable. And big blushes. I'm really flattered, truly. Thanks so much, I really appreciate you reading. Please enjoy the next update!

Krokador Wow, thank you so much. That's so mind boggling and awesome that you think you'll find inspiration in this little tale! That's one of the best things about Pens; I know that I've been inspired by the other writers here (though it's still hard to believe something I've written can do the same). I'm glad you're still invested in the story despite the many years it's taken to write and the long breaks in-between. Mea culpa, and many thanks.
Thanks re: the characterizations. I think one of the things that's most important to me when I write is that the characters be as real as possible. Of course, it's always going to come up short, there's only so much you can do but I try to remember that everyone has their own motivations, concerns, reactions, etc. that are ingrained in who they are, and that I'm writing that, not for an audience's reaction, etc. It's not always convenient, but, I think stories should be character-driven anyway. I always think, even if I wanted to I couldn't write them kissing any sooner than when they actually will because it wouldn't be realistic, it wouldn't be true to who they are, true to how they fell in love. I don't know, I've felt since the beginning that this story is not something that I've dreamed up but something that I've discovered, you know? I can't make them do anything, and if I did try and manipulate a certain emotion or action it would probably feel (and read) really out of place.
Re: the other characters, again, I just try to remember that they have their own lives, and that Willow and Tara are not the center of their worlds. They have their own feelings, etc. and aren't there to move a plot along. Their interactions should reflect that, and I try to stick to that. Re: the details - you're probably right. I know for me I like to read that kind of stuff because, while I know how to make a cup of coffee, I'm interested in how Tara makes a cup of coffee, you know? Is she concentrating on the task at hand, or just doing each action on auto-pilot as she is off in dreamland? Does she do the same thing every time or does her routine get mixed up if she's mulling over something? Does she buy cream special or just use whatever milk she has around? I don't know, if it was going up for publication I'm sure half of the story would be cut, but since I'm writing this for fun, I figure I can get away with indulging some of my own interests. Re: typos, etc. - that's what I get for not having a beta! And haha about buying it as a book. Such a bizarre thought, I almost can't imagine. Seems wrong to think of it being anywhere but the Kitten on the blue background... (or on Uber and the black!) And shoot, if anyone can go 100 chapters without a smooch... let's just hope it's not me! Thanks so much!

vampyregurl73 Thanks so much! I love to see the dancing elephants! The end of Straight Willow is nigh, though probably not as nigh as most people would like. (Blame me, I'm long winded!) But definitely more nigh with each update. I totally understand re: comparing coming out experiences; it's really hard not to. I think Willow's coming out, both with her mom and Buffy, are going to be fairly recognizable to a lot of Kittens. It's hard, and anyone who has gone through it is a brave soul in my eyes. And driving! Good lord. Can't even imagine. Seems so far in the future but I know it'll be here faster than I like! Thanks again, I really appreciate the feedback.

Mrs. Pineapple You said it, lots of thinking going on in this chapter. Things are changing and it's high time that the girls move into that next phase. It's like when the flight attendant tells you to power down your electronics for descent. It's imminent, now you just gotta wait for touchdown. I'm glad you liked Buffy's part. I hesitated including it, because this story has been like 99.9% Willow and Tara POV, but I really felt like it was important to include, because Buffy's thoughts are a) in part, Tara's thoughts like two months ago and b) a glimpse at what Willow might be encountering when she comes out. Go Tara indeed - she's really grabbing on and running with things. I liked your thoughts on the quoted text, especially re: Tara's confusion over where Willow stood. Crazy how closely fear and love are sometimes. Thanks so much, I really appreciate it. Enjoy the next part!

fhiwda Thanks so much! Hopefully you'll enjoy Willow's last day as a "straight" woman. She definitely has a lot to look forward to!

inspiron Sorry to tease, totally not my intention! I'm glad you felt the last bit was necessary though. It felt like the rules needed to be re-established, you know? Tara is indeed cluing in and starting to really wonder. And Buffy, I'm very relieved that you liked that. She is totally in limbo, and I wanted to show how far off she is because she's missing a few key pieces of information. I'm glad you liked the mentions of previous events. I really do that for myself, more than anything, to reorient and touch base. I hope that it helps keep the characters consistent and honest, as well. And, that's how I remember things, how I experience life, by remembering and reliving. Seems right that they would too. Tomorrow (their Saturday) is indeed a big day, and you're so right to think it'll be 10 chapters (at least, cause we alllllll know I'm wordy and meandering). The way Willow has coming out planned is dinner with her mom on Saturday and picking Buffy up from the airport Sunday, so two different encounters. And wanting Xander to show! I think you might be the only one out there that wants that! Thank you so much for the incredibly kind words.

Agilulfa Yay for first posts! I hope you stick around and post many, many times; the Kitten board is such a fantastic place, and there are so many great writers here. I hope you enjoy their stories, too. I'm so glad you liked the last update and thanks so much for the very kind thoughts! I'm really, truly flattered. Please enjoy the next bit!

shiraz No need to apologize, I know how it is when life goes nuts. If only life would let us take a time out every now and again to do the things we wanted to do, not just the things we needed to do! I'm glad you're glad that I'm not rushing. I couldn't even if I wanted to, Willow and Tara just won't allow it. This is their life, and they're living it, damnit. Thanks so, so much, I really appreciate you taking the time to drop by. Means a lot.

mstrykl Thanks so much, and so sorry for the slow pace. I really wish I had more time to write; I get so happy when I can sit down and devote time to this story, however, time is just something that I am in very short supply of now. That said, I hope I'll be able to get more done soon. Please enjoy the next part!

SickSadGirl Happy birthday, though very belated indeed. Your thoughts on Buffy are so spot on. She definitely is missing the Willow side of things, and she is trying so, so hard to see what is going on. I truly believe her heart is in the right place, even if her conclusions aren't! The flirting will definitely continue; no turning back there! I hope you enjoy what will surely be a long weekend of updates. I don't want to miss a thing. Hopefully that's okay with everyone else. Thanks so much!

WillowRulez Buffy, Buffy, Buffy - so close, yet so far away. And Tara is indeed cluing in, which, I think everyone here is happy about! (Took her long enough, right?) And as for the coming out - it's coming up... you know... eventually. (Hopefully not too much of a wait though, I'm as eager as everyone else.) And another request for info on that day in the park? Your wish is my command! Thanks so much!

wayland Thanks very much. Re: feedback, I really enjoy the conversation, it's a lot of fun to sit down a consider everyone's thoughts. I just hope I do them justice! I totally agree with you re: how screenwriters do it, and agree so much falls on the actors shoulders. It must be so frustrating to write something great and have it totally botched by a bad actor. So exactly about Buffy; she's going to definitely feel hurt once she finds out what's going on. I think it's safe to say there will be bumps along the way as this story winds down. I mean, that's life, right? When do things go smoothly and wonderfully all the time, especially when dealing with something as life-altering and controversial as coming out? I think the thing that's important for me though is that it's realistic, that their experiences fit them as characters and fit in the journey that they're taking. Or, something less cheesy. And you're right, they do get knocked down but keep hoping for better days. I think that's love. Thanks so much Clare, I'd love to hear your different endings some day!

JustSkipIt I'm very glad that you liked the last update. And yeah, I think I've had more "comebacks" than Cher at this point. I always feel awful when I look at the calendar and think, holy crap, that much time has gone by!? However, it is what it is at this point, you know? I just keep plugging away with the knowledge that this story will be finished before my son starts college, hell or high water, damnit! (And yes, he's doing great - still proud mom over here.)
And you are so spot on re: the "in love with Xander" lynchpin. It's reality for both of them (or for Buffy now, at least). You are so right re: asking the question "is this true?" I think Tara is well on her way to doing that, but Buffy has no reason to, you know? Willow just simply hasn't given her enough information for her to consider that "huh, maybe Willow is gay." Willow, despite her heart-shaped eyes for Tara, is severely closeted. Maybe not to Sheila, who she's been priming for years, but to Buffy, I think whole-heartedly she is. I think Buffy thinks she's probably a little frigid, burned by Xander and Oz, but just cautious about men. She's in for a big surprise, that's for sure.
I always imagined Buffy the Slayer being insanely bored by her nighttime duties, so wanted to kind of bring that over here with her waiting out the morning. And Buffy and Dawn, I love them together, so wanted to get at least one more interaction in. And yeah, that day in the park. It's going to become more and more in their minds. It was the beginning for them, hard for them to not constantly look back. Plus, there are some flashback updates ahoy. Re: Willow's coming out order; yeah, that's Willow's order, what she has planned in her mind. Whether it happens that way is another thing. Tara is the wild card, for sure; Willow can't control everything, as she may see, despite her best laid plans. And as for Willow, I can guarantee that she's never considered that Tara might be hurting over this. It quite literally has never crossed her mind. I think she thinks that two weeks ago, she picked up her game and within the last couple of days Tara has started to think, 'huh, she's kinda cute,' and that Tara's flirting is fun banter, and not a sign that the girl is falling in love (or has fallen in love) with her. It's incredibly naive, and I think goes to how focused she is on her own situation. (I think Willow has an inkling, there have been glimpses of an understanding but she isn't willing to really critically look at it, not until she's out, and even if she did she'd probably see it as exciting, not potentially hurtful.) And prize for the lady, you pretty much wrote the next update in a sentence. I'm nothing if not predictable. Thanks Deb, so, so much!

dtburanek Welcome back yourself! I owe you some feedback, I believe. Was thrilled to see the "fairy" tale resumed. Thanks so much, both for the kind words and your own update!

marlaman22 Amen, things are definitely moving along - now someone just has to be brave and say it! Thanks so much!

BuffyFan4ever Thanks so much. And if you love stories where it takes forever for them to get together you are definitely in the right place. (Cause you know, I'm slow.) And re: the ginny oil slick comment, I so totally laughed, before feeling sad about the real situation. Ain't that the truth. Thanks again, and please enjoy the next update.

DaddyCatALSO I mentioned to Deb earlier that Tara is a wild card, but I think Buffy is even more of a wild card. She can be the most well-meaning person in the world but if she tries to help she'll probably stick her foot in it somewhere. Whether she will remains to be seen! Thanks so much!

LonelyTara On the one hand, I'm sorry that you were in pain when you started reading this little epic, that's certainly no good, however I'm so relieved to read that things seem to be looking up now that you're all caught up! If the good stuff keeps up, I'm thrilled that this story could be a good luck charm. And thank you for the very flattering words, I'm blushing over here. I'm just glad that it's resonating, you know? Best of luck to you and the missus and please enjoy the next bit.

PalomaMartinBR Thanks for understanding Paloma! And while it would be cool to brag, I'm not sure I want my very curious son to read this little tale, no matter how old he is at the time. It's a bit too spicy! I'm so glad you liked the last update. Definitely starting to see the truth, even if in bits and pieces. I hope you like the 'day-after-talk and the LDAASW!' And yay on maybe writing a new fic, that's awesome. That's why I keep coming back to Pens, I love that we're always sparking new work in each other. Thanks again, and enjoy the next update.

ssc1980 Oooo Owl City, jealous some more. Really, I'm just jealous of anyone who gets to see live music; it's just not happening for me for a while, not until my son is a little older, at least. And wow, third re-read! Wow. And thank you for the compliments, I'm so glad you feel that way. And don't be sad, knowing me and my need to write every last detail of their lives it'll be another six years before I get to type the words, 'the end.' (But seriously, let's hope it's sooner than that!) Thank so much!

irishgrl3 Hola anna! Summer has treated me well, you? Buffy definitely is a big question mark - she can go in some many different ways. I think Tara is more confident in her growing thoughts about Willow's not-so-straightness... but whether she's confident to admit those thoughts to Buffy is another matter, especially if Buffy were ever to insist that no way Jose, Willow is s-t-r-a-i-g-h-t! I'm glad you like seeing Tara in Willow's dreams. Willow desperately wants the dream world to be real and she's so close to having that as a reality. Just needs to take a few brave steps before it can happen. Thanks so much, truly appreciated.

SMGOVAN Welcome to the board and wow, thanks very much! I hope you check out some of the other great stories here - there are really great writers here, and a lot of great AU stuff out there. (And no worries - CAPS ARE FINE SOMETIMES.)

truck_driving_magic_mama Thanks so much, I'm glad this little tale could help make exam week a little more bearable! Buffy and Tara are definitely diverging in their thoughts about what's going on with Willow, that's for sure! You know, I can't believe it's been six years. And wow, when you laid out your life in relation - I seriously said to my wife, "Jesus, I really need to finish that story!" It is so beyond crazy is it bananas. Thank you Melissa, both for the very kind words and the reminder that this story has been kicking around for a loooong time!

Phoenix Another reminder that it's been six years! Oh man, so embarrassed. I so totally thought when I started writing this thing that it would be six months, tops to get to the end. Then life slapped me around a bit and here we are. I'm married, I have a baby... I didn't even know my wife when this story started - so crazy! I'm just so glad that the story has brought some happiness. That is so insanely gratifying to read, thank you. And wow, favorite chapter? Things are indeed shifting out of neutral; they are definitely looking at each other differently. Low angst in this chapter, though a warning that there will still be angst before the story is over. Coming out is hard, you know? But thank you, thank you for the very kind words. I'm so flattered and hope that you enjoy the rest of the story. Thanks.

wimpy0729 Wimpster! As I told a previous poster, I think I'm the queen of comebacks these days. Sure, I may disappear into the ether for a few months (year?!), but damnit, I always pop back up. I'm so determined to finish this story! (And another driving mention - shush! Too soon!) Thanks re: the update. I'm so glad you liked that paragraph. Haven't we all woken up like that at least once? I love writing those moments, trying to describe what it feels like to do something as simple as waking up. It makes me happy, and I'm glad you liked it. And Willow is coming out in a jiffy... Neverland jiffy-time, mind you, but jiffy nonetheless! Thanks so much!

pipsberg I think I should take naps more often. Thanks so much for the very kind words, and no worries at all. As I've said before, the only person busier than me is you! I'm really glad you liked the update. I like what you said about Buffy - I imagine her being a very complex person; she always seemed that way to me on the show. Ditzy but smart, strong yet weak, etc. and it's fun to write. I'm glad you also liked the girls' growing realizations. The coming out is nigh (as a previous poster said), and I like your thought that even if it is rough it's necessary. It's time Willow admitted who she is, you know, for herself more than anyone. Thanks again, means so much. xoxo

Naeryn Two years? Sounds like you had a me-sized vacation! So glad to have you back, truly. I really wish I could claim credit for teasing but I'm not clever enough to be that kind of writer! I see writers talk about planning angst or a certain emotional reaction and I just think, how in the hell do they do it?! I just write what feels natural for these two, how it seems their life is unfolding. As I mentioned earlier, I don't think I could make them do or feel anything they didn't want to; these girls are doing their own thing, damnit, and I'm just writing it down as it happens!
Thanks re: the Morgan awkwardness. I didn't want anyone to be "the bad guy" but I did want to highlight how hard it must be for closeted Willow to watch what may happen if she kept closeted. If that makes sense? I'm glad you like how it unraveled. And your feelings on Willow's coming out, especially to her mom - I think Willow is starting to feel that way too. Just get on the other side and see where you stand, you know? Thanks very much, both for the kind words about the story and for the family well-wishes!

edob Aww, shucks. Thanks!

bluewillowwitch Sorry to tease, definitely not the intention, though I'm glad you seem to like! And I'm glad you like that it's taking a while for them to get together. I couldn't rush it if I wanted to. Thanks so much, and please do enjoy the next part.

LittleBit Do'h for no notification, though yay for you seeing it now! Thank you so much, I'm so glad you liked it. Tara is finally getting a clue but you're right on, jumping in with both feet is insanely vulnerable. And I'm glad you like how Willow is evolving. Thank you so much - please enjoy the next update!

[EasierSaid]

Title: Neverland
Author: EasierSaid
Feedback: Yes, please.
Spoilers: None.
Setting: AU. There is no Hellmouth, there is no slayer and no magic of the wicca variety. Just our girls and the rest of the Buffy characters living and loving in that great city by the bay, San Francisco.
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: Please don't sue me Mutant Enemy.
Notes: Short and hopefully sweet.


Thoughts in italics

PART 55


The redhead had to remind herself not to run as she practically skipped to the bathroom, the door wide open, sounds of Tara's morning ritual filtering out into the hall. A bright smile broke across the redhead's face as she got her first peak of the girl she loved standing before the sink, toothbrush in hand. Willow raised her hand and gently rapped her knuckles on the doorjamb to alert her roommate to her presence. "Hey."

"Hmay," Tara said back, her mouth full of toothpaste. She turned and spit into the sink, self-consciously wiping at the corners of her mouth, a shy smile on her lips. "Hey," she repeated more clearly as she looked up and met the redhead's eye. The blonde's heart beat wildly and she willed herself not to blush.

"Sleep okay?" Willow asked with a small smile as she hovered at the doorway.

"Yeah," Tara replied with a slight head bob. She filled a small cup with water and rinsed her toothbrush under the faucet. "You?" She turned the water off and took a quick swig from the glass. She swished the liquid around in her mouth and spit, placing the toothbrush in the holder.

"I did," Willow answered, her eyes raptly following the blonde's every movement. She even makes brushing teeth beautiful. "Been up long?"

"About fifteen minutes," Tara said as she turned more fully toward the redhead. "Lazy start," she added, glancing down at her PJs and robe with a sheepish half smile. "How late did you stay up last night?"

Willow shrugged. "Not too bad, went to sleep a little after 1."

"You're pretty perky for that little sleep," the blonde observed, brows raised.

"Well, I snoozed a few times," the redhead admitted with a small smile.

"I heard," Tara stage whispered with a half smile. She watched as Willow blushed, and the sight thrilled her, her smile widening and heart expanding. Adorable. She was flirting and it was causing Willow to blush. It made her happy in a way she didn't before know possible.

Willow's heart fluttered as she recognized the blonde's flirty tone. She dipped her head, her own smile tugging at the corner of her mouth as she suddenly found the floor very interesting. "I'm probably perky because I still have some residual caffeine zipping around in there from yesterday's mochas."

"So, no coffee this morning," the blonde teased, her voice mock serious.

"I definitely did not say that," Willow quickly replied as she brought her head up with a wide grin; the blonde laughed lightly in return. The redhead's belly did a flip, delighting at the sound.

"Coffee, check," the blonde said. The two girls just stared for a moment, smiling, enjoying being with each other, and Tara realized that things felt different between them. They weren't just friends anymore. They were some other, indefinable thing. And we're flirting... It made her stomach flip and she took a steadying breath as she looked to her feet and then back up. "Do you um, do you have a busy day today?"

"I don't know yet," Willow replied honestly, leaning her shoulder against the doorjamb. "Slow morning probably. Whether it picks up from there depends on what Khalil and Andy get done this morning."

Tara perked up slightly. "So, no conference calls this morning?"

"Nope," the redhead replied with a soft shake of her head.

"Time for pancakes?" The blonde asked, biting her lower lip as she waited for a reply.

Willow broke into a wide smile and stood up straight. "I could do pancakes."

"Cool," the blonde replied with a head bob. "I um, I woke up wanting some but didn't want to make them for just me." A half smile broke across her face. "Seemed kinda decadent."

"Nothing wrong with pancake decadence." The redhead smiled brightly. "Do you need the bathroom mor–"

"No, all done," the blonde said, moving to walk past Willow.

"Okay," the redhead said, her breath catching slightly as the blonde narrowly slid past her into the hall. "I'm just going to shower and then I'll be down. Stairs. For pancakes." She thumbed into the bathroom and took a step backward, her bare foot stepping onto the cool tile.

"Sounds good," the blonde said with a nod from the hall. "I'll get the coffee going."

"Okay," the redhead said. She took the bathroom doorknob in her hand and started to slowly close the door. "See you in a bit."

"Okay," Tara replied as she took a few steps backward down the hall. When the door finally closed, she turned and walked to her bedroom, her head dipped slightly, a bright blush on her cheeks and a brighter smile on her lips. How does she do that? The blonde thought, shutting the door behind her and sloughing off her robe. Does she know that she drives me wild? The blonde changed quickly, putting on a long sleeve shirt, cargo pants and warm wool socks that were relatively paint free.

She smiled as she passed the closed bathroom door on her way downstairs, the sound of the shower causing her to blush as she thought about Willow, water running over her freckles. Of her earlier fantasy of them together in the shower, her wet palms sliding across the redhead's slick skin. The blonde bounced down the stairs, shaking her head to bring her back from her naughty thoughts. She quickly set the thermostat before making her way into the kitchen.

Things definitely felt different between them this morning, and the difference made her feel shy. Bold. Tara shook her head in wonder as she moved into the kitchen at how she could feel two such conflicting emotions at the same time. She felt like she was seeing the redhead in a new light, parts of the girl that had seemed so different before. A random thought flittered through her mind: Willow's CD. It would seem so different now, now that she wasn't associating each song with Xander. Tara gulped lightly. Would she now associate the songs with herself? If she listened, would she hear a longing, a yearning from the redhead for her?

The blonde exhaled and centered herself, willing herself not to let her mind start to spin out of control, reminding herself that she had breakfast to prepare, time to share with Willow. Sufficiently calmed, she filled the kettle with water and set it to boil, then filled the French press with ground coffee.

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

Willow stepped under the shower stream, hot water running over her head, her stomach fluttering wildly. Her skin felt flush and she knew it wasn't just from the shower. Things were different between them this morning. They were flirting and it felt like Tara was looking at her differently. Like she was more than just Buffy's friend. More than just a roommate. More that just friends, even? The redhead took a deep breath and started to soap up, her fingers pressing into her scalp as she worked the shampoo into her wet hair. Tara's smile, that devastatingly beautiful smile, seemed extra bright this morning. Extra warm. It was like the blonde was glowing, radiating affection and Willow felt weak in the knees thinking that it was for her. Because of her. The redhead turned into the stream and let the water run over her head. Was Tara really lit up for her?

The thought caused Willow to sail through the rest of her shower and bathroom routine, her mind a fuzzy fog of happy thoughts and warmth. She quickly returned to her room and dressed, surprisingly herself with the lack of worry over how she would look. Because some little unacknowledged part of her mind told her that this morning it didn't matter what she wore, that Tara would still smile at her in a way that made her heart pound in her chest and made the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. Dressed, she slipped on her socks and with hair still damp, made her way down the stairs.

The redhead smiled brightly as she saw the blonde in the kitchen. "Willow's empty belly, reporting for pancakes and coffee." She placed her phone on the kitchen counter and moved toward one of the bar stools.

Tara smiled as her eyes drank in the loveliness of her roommate. The olive green long-sleeve shirt brought out the girl's green eyes, and form-fitting jeans... God she's gorgeous. The blonde's smile widened as Willow slid onto a bar stool. The blonde held out a steaming mug. "Your coffee, Your Goofiness."

Willow smiled in return as she got comfortable and took the offered mug. The redhead held up her free hand and dipped her head, her voice jokingly candid. "Please, no formal titles here."

"Okay," Tara replied with a shy smile. She nodded to the double-burner griddle and the bowl of pancake batter before her. "Funny shapes or rounds, Will?"

The redhead's heart did a flip as she heard her nickname on the blonde's lips. "Funny shapes." Willow watched as Tara lifted the ladle and a sudden wave of indecision swept over her. Is that too silly? She suddenly felt self-conscious. "Wait, no, rounds," the redhead interjected. The blonde hesitated and Willow turned sheepish. Okay, I'm being stupid. "Funny shapes?"

"You sure?" Tara asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I'm sure," the redhead replied, fidgeting slightly. Okay, less than a minute into the breakfast and you're already spazzing.

A half smile appeared on Tara's lips. She lifted the ladle and drizzled the batter over the griddle. "How, about, this." She finished and admired her handy work.

Willow leaned over the bar to get a better view of the pancakes and smiled. "They look like venn diagrams." The redhead immediately blushed. "Or something, less, dorky..." she muttered.

"I like venn diagram," Tara replied with a smile. "They're logical in an artsy way."

Willow looked up and smiled, the warmth from the blonde's look erasing her momentary embarrassment and nerves. "It's actually kind of neat." She pointed to the two oddly shaped pancakes on the griddle. "It's like funny shapes and rounds all in one."

"The best of both worlds," the blonde replied.

The redhead felt the hot blush steal cross her cheeks as the words resonated, her dream from the previous night replaying in her mind. "You could have both."

Tara did a double take as she watched the flush emerge across the redhead's face and neck. "You okay?" She asked, curious about what made the girl blush, the blonde's heart racing in her chest as she thought once again that it was probably something she said. She thought back to what she had just said, and was confused about what could have possibly caused the redhead to turn red. What did I say?

Willow snapped her eyes up, returning her thoughts to the girl in front of her. She smiled bashfully. "Yup. All okay here."

"You went someplace else," Tara replied. The look on her roommate's face was unreadable and enchanting.

"Little bit of deja vu," the redhead admitted sheepishly as she cupped her mug with her hands.

"Pancake deja vu?" Tara answered, amused.

"No, just..." Willow trailed off, another blush covering her cheeks. She sighed happily. "Something just seemed familiar." She picked up the mug and took a tentative sip of coffee.

"Ah," Tara replied. The redhead was being evasive, but cheerfully so and the blonde didn't want to push. With effortless skill, she flipped the pancakes.

Willow watched the action and took a calming breath. Okay, here goes nothing... "So I think today's the day," she said with a little head bob, her fingers slightly fidgeting with her mug as she waited for Tara to respond.

"Today?" The blonde's eyebrows raised and she chuckled. "For..."

"Your paintings," the redhead replied simply. Tara's brow slightly quirked and Willow quickly continued, imbuing her voice with as much confidence and reassurance as she could muster. "You're gonna get all inspired and whoosh, finished." She offered a small smile, her eyes shining in the hope that Tara would understand what she was doing. It was a strategy she had decided on as she fell asleep last night. Instead of compounding the girl's nerves by avoiding mentioning the deadline, she'd soothe them by encouraging her. If Tara was nervous about her work, Willow would be supportive and composed. Or at least, the redhead thought as she nervously waited for the blonde to reply, I'll do whatever I can to help.

Tara couldn't help but smile. "That is very optimistic," she said, moving the finished pancakes to a plate and placing them in front of Willow. And sweet, kind, wonderful... She met Willow's eye. "Powdered sugar, fruit or syrup?"

"Syrup, please," the redhead said with a little shimmy. Tara grinned and handed over the bottle and a fork. She ladled some batter onto the griddle then watched as the redhead poured syrup over her pancakes and took a bite. "You make the best pancakes," Willow said appreciatively as she chewed.

"Secret recipe," Tara replied with as much mock seriousness as she could muster. "Handed down from the, Bisquick side of the family."

"They're perfect though," Willow said, cutting into the short stack with her fork. "They're all fluffy, and soft. It's a gift."

"The gift of pancakes," Tara deadpanned.

"Mmmhmm," the redhead replied, taking another large bite.

The blonde shook her head and stole another quick look at the redhead. "You didn't, happen to talk to Buffy last night, did you?"

"No," Willow replied, surprised and slightly guiltily. "Why?"

"She called last night," the blonde said. "Was similarly encouraging about the painting." She smiled softly, remembering with tenderness the petite blonde's confidence in her. Her smile faltered slightly as she remembered Buffy's snarky comment about her and Willow hanging out. About how the petite blonde was sure that Willow pined for Xander. She tucked the thought away. "Just, thought maybe you talked and this was a joint, 'motivate Tara' strategy."

Willow smiled softly, picking at a piece of pancake with her fork. "Sadly, I thought I was being original." She looked back down, pushing a bit of her pancake around the plate. "How is she?"

"Good," the blonde said, flipping two more oddly shaped pancakes. She could sense the avoidance in Willow's voice, and her heart reached out to the redhead. What are you afraid of? she thought. Because that was it, wasn't it? The redhead seemed afraid to talk to Buffy. What are you nervous about, Willow? Tara's heart raced. Is she nervous because... She quickly dropped the thought and continued speaking. "I think she um, I think she's starting to feel guilty about coming home."

"Guilty?" Willow asked as she looked up.

"Leaving Dawn, living so far away," Tara said with a slight, sympathetic wince. She checked the pancakes and returned her attention to her roommate.

"Oh," the redhead said, her own brow quirking, and suddenly she felt very guilty for what she was about to do. She knew Buffy was dealing with her own stuff, knew how hard it was for the petite blonde to live so far away from her younger sister, and she knew how hard it would be for her to fly home and resume life a continent away. And you're just going to blindside her when she's already feeling down, Willow thought, her eyes suddenly finding the pancake very interesting. "She shouldn't feel bad though," the redhead said softly. "Dawnie knows she loves her."

"I know," the blonde said equally soft, taking the pancakes from the griddle and pouring the rest of the batter onto the griddle in three irregular shaped blobs. She glanced up at her roommate, wishing that she could help with whatever this problem between Willow and Buffy was. "A-And I think Buffy knows. It's just hard for her."

"Yeah," the redhead replied. She looked up as her phone buzzed. She smiled apologetically as she looked from the blonde to the screen on her phone. "Sorry, I have to check this email."

"No problem," Tara said with a gentle smile. "I'm the one making you play pancake hooky, after all."

Willow smiled in return and read the email. She frowned slightly as the email went on. She quickly typed a reply and then looked back up with a smile, pushing her worries about Buffy away for the time being.

"Everything okay?" Tara asked as she flipped the last pancakes, trying to gauge the redhead's mood.

"Yeah, just looks like it's going to be a tedious day," Willow said, frowning as another email pinged her inbox. "Sorry," she again apologized. She quickly read it and sighed, typing out a reply and hitting send. She looked back up, her expression slightly exasperated. "If these early emails are any indication, I'm going to spend most of my day arguing about whether this one submit button should be an oval or a rectangle."

"Hmm, very tedious," Tara said with a nod of her head. "But important."

"So, not important," Willow scoffed with a smile and shake of her head.

"Shapes are important," the blonde replied. "After all, the cubist movement probably wouldn't have been half as influential if it had been, say, the bubble movement."

"Yup, me and Picasso," the redhead said with a sharp nod of her head. "Same ballpark."

"Smarty," the blonde chided with a lopsided grin. "More?"

"One, please," Willow replied. Tara smile brightly. She dished a hot pancake onto the redhead's plate and set the others aside for herself. She didn't move from her place, just poured the syrup onto her plate and started to eat standing up. She could have moved to the bar, could have sat next to the redhead, their knees nearly touching beneath the counter but the thought seemed a little more intimate than she could handle at the moment. Better to have some space. Plus, she liked being across from the redhead, able to steal glances at her, engage her fully when they spoke.

After a moment of just eating, Tara asked, "So which side are you on?"

"Side?" Willow asked, confused.

"Ovals or rectangles?" The blonde clarified.

"Ovals," Willow replied. A mischievous smile broke across her lips as a spicy thought crossed her mind. "I like my buttons, curvy."

Tara looked up, meeting Willow's eye, and the blonde nearly melted on the spot. The subtly seductive tone of the redhead's voice, the suggestive sparkle in her green eyes. W-Wow. "C-Curvy is good," she sputtered, her gaze dropping to the counter, her heart racing in her chest.

The redhead's smile grew as the blonde blushed bright red across the counter. "Definitely good," she agreed, innocently coy.

Tara looked up and her brow quirked slightly. Was she–? Is she–? She opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out, and the blonde realized with an amused smile that she was well and truly flustered. She shook her head slightly as she looked back down at her plate and took a bite of pancake, the smile never leaving her lips.

Willow ducked her own head and finished her last pancake, a wide grin on her face. I can't believe I just said that. Don't spaz. Look cool. No look normal. Cool on you equals spaz. She fought every urge to shimmy in her seat as she replayed the sight of the blonde going speechless in her mind. I did that! She thought with pride. I was flirting and not spazzy and I made her get that adorable look on her face! The redhead's phone pinged and after a long look at the blonde she tore her eyes from her roommate's face to read the new message.

Tara looked up and watched as the redhead read her email, the freckled face turning serious as her mind shifted into work mode. God she's gorgeous, the blonde thought again, darting her eyes back down as the redhead turned back to face her.

"Tara," Willow said, and the blonde looked up, her eyes almost comically owlish. "I'm going to have to get back to work," the redhead said with a slight wince. "Things are starting to get busy, and–"

"It's okay," Tara interrupted with a reassuring nod, a lopsided grin pulling at her lips. "It is, work hours, after all."

The redhead smiled apologetically. "They're bickering about whether the button should have a drop shadow now," the redhead said, her voice clearly annoyed with her coworkers.

"Sounds dire," the blonde said with a teasing smile, and was rewarded by a slight, sweet smile from the redhead.

Willow looked down at the counter and then back up. "I um, I was wondering if it would be okay if I came by and saw your new painting later," she asked, her hands playing with the mug before her. "I mean, if you still want me to see it."

The blonde smiled. "I do," she replied, nodding. "And any time."

"You're sure?" The redhead asked, her face etched with concern. "I mean I know you're super busy–"

"Any time, " the blonde repeated, her eyes warm.

"K," Willow replied, temporarily frozen in place by the look in the blonde's blue eyes. "I better..." She slid off the stool and stood, picking up her phone in one hand, her mug in the other.

"Willow," Tara said, dipping her head, before looking back up. The redhead stopped, her attention on the blonde in full. "Thanks for having pancakes with me."

The redhead lit up. "Any time," she replied, her voice sincere and Tara smiled. They stared at each other for a long moment. Willow took a slow step backward. "See you later?"

"Later," Tara replied. A few more steps backward and Willow turned, her slim figure disappearing up the stairs. The blonde sighed and shook her head, amazed, as she found herself alone. Wow. She picked up her fork with a slightly shaking hand and sighed again. Wow.

[SylverMaki]

DIBS!!! Thanks so much Heather! Love you.

FYI, it was perfect. Looovvveedd it!

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... I really love their new flirt-y relationship... I hope Willow very soon is able to go watch Tara's paintings... I truly hope that when Willow visits Tara they get very touch-y feel-y...

[LonelyTara]

I literally cried out "OH YEAH!" when I saw this was an actual update!! Thank goodness my class was over and the students had gone home, lol (yes, teaching on a Saturday...) This was a deliciously, wonderfully angst-free moment, I loved the tender simplicity of these two having breakfast as they circle closer and closer to one-another like a comet drawn into the gravity well of a star. As always, the prose is tight, thoughtful, and sweet and smooth to read as honey melting on a spoon. This story is definitely still a good luck charm.

Update again soon, please! I want to see Willow come out, and then bring on the

I repeat, oh yeah!

[vampyregurl73]

Loved the update!

Their interaction was much more fluid, light bulbs are going on - ABOUT TIME!

I'm looking forward to Willow seeing her paintings along with the coming out, but I think we're all waiting for that with bated breath because then everything can change for Willow and not just with her feelings/relationship for/with Tara.

[shiraz]

Yaaaaay!!!! People are gonna freak when they realise this is an update and not another bump!!

Awesome as usual You are so amazing! Again, it's the little things you choose to say that could be left out but just add so much depth and texture to the story. Like when Willow gestures over her shoulder, steps backward into the bathroom...I can just SEE it and then you add something about her bare feet hitting the cool tile and it makes it that much more real and felt. Again you capture the feelings we've all felt...Tara gets to the kitchen and feels two conflicting emotions - shy and bold. I know what that feels like - when something between 2 people shifts but the shift is incomplete and there's overlap (like a venn diagram), but I certainly can't express it in writing the way you do You're a great writer and I would happily read anything you write...the fact that I get to read your writing about Willow and Tara is just a bonus! You are amazing. I'm just sayin'...okay I'll stop now

Can't wait for the next one and I hope all is well with your wee family

Shiraz

[lonelylanding]

OMG! its and update XDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

[Owl]

This story never fails to pick me up out of whatever muddy ditch of grumpiness I've stumbled into and make the whole world all shiny and sparkly again. Thank you so much for this update, its magical powers were most desperately needed at this moment and, as such, I'm now off to make pancakes in honour of its incredibly fortuitous appearance.

[FIRESIGN]

Nicely done! You're killing me with this angst!!!!

Can't wait to read more! Update soon, please!

FIRESIGN
aka Cin

[LittleBit]

I love flirty Willow and Tara! They are both so adorable. I really do hope that Willow doesn't back out of coming out because the girls really do need to realise how they each feel. And I think Buffy has to realise that maybe there are things she hasn't clued into as yet. I think Buffy could even help things along once she finds out that Willow's been pining for years!

Keep up the great work as I really do enjoy reading this wonderful story.

[Mrs. Pineapple]

Wow, two angst-free updates in a row! Doin' a little tapdance here...
I love their new and flirty relationship. Yay for pancakes! It was about time Tara got to do her famous funny shapes.
And a double yay for curvy buttons! I think I'd get just as flustered as Tara... *fans herself*
I hope in the next chapter Willow will get to see the painting...

Great job

[wimpy0729]

Oh Boy! Oh Boy! This was soo cute. The flirting just makes me want to jump up and down, and the fact that they're getting it makes it even more wonderful. Ahh, finally, the light bulbs are clicking on - YAY!

Willow's curvy comment and Tara's reaction just made me I'll be thinking of that all day.

Thanks so much for another enjoyable update!


Wimpy

[Foomatic]

Hey Heather!

Ive been lacking in the feedback for your fic, which is totally not a reflection of how I feel about Neverland! I just wanna pull my hair out because they are SO CLOSE!! They've got some ovaries of steel being able to restrain themselves, if I was in the same situation there'd be two hot writhing bodies on the kitchen coutertop already, ya know what I'm sayin'? But, this is Neverland, so we must draw out the sweet and tortuous angst for as long as possible, because we love it just as much as seeing our two favorite witches together.

"I like my buttons, curvy."

I'm putting that in my sig and making it my facebook status for the day. Ha!!!

[JustSkipIt]

Heather - Yay! An update! I know how parenting can be. It frequently leaves little time for getting a haircut or cleaning the kitchen let alone writing fan fic. So thanks for including us in your time allotment. As I suspected the beginning of their day is filled with flirting, adorableness, and coffee. Ok, you worked in funny shapes and rounds pancakes too so yay for canon. Their flirtation is so obvious that it's like Willow's coming out will be a formality. I love their comfort at this point though. Thanks so much for the update.

[Agilulfa]

Yes, an update!! I'm really enjoying this 'maybe she actually likes me' phase with the subtle flirting and the definitely happier and more hopeful Willow. Tara finally starting to think that her fantasys could become true after so many chapters is also pretty rewarding. I'm very curious about Buffy's (not to mention Tara's) reaction to the news Willow will eventually reveal (in a not too far future, please ). The story is as great as always, thank you for keeping writing it!

edited to correct my grammar mistakes

[Naeryn]

OHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGOD...

It's a Neverland update.

You know, when I started reading this, I didn't realize what an apt name 'Neverland' would turn out to be. And yet, here we have: progress! True, legitimate progress that the two of them, might, someday, at some point in the future, possibly consider maybe getting with the smoochies. And I'm pleased as punch about it!

I absolutely adored Willow's little 'dare to flirt' moment. "I like my buttons curvy." Brilliant! Though they're both still unsure about it, I'm glad to see them moving closer... and starting to recognize that they're moving closer.

I eagerly await the next update.

Edited to add: I appreciate your use of the 'funny shapes or rounds' bit. I find a lot of the time when canon speech is worked into a story, it seems contrived. Often something that someone said once becomes a catch-phrase for the group, and it doesn't let the story read smoothly. Yours worked wonderfully, and not only did you use it, you enlarged on it to actually make it part of the story. Wicked.

[inspiron]

Wow, alright! I just loved the warm feeling to this chapter. There’s a definite shift taking place. Both of their perspectives have been altered and that’s affecting everything – every look, every gesture, every word. Wow! What I wouldn’t give to read Tara’s thoughts if she went back and listened to Willow’s CD now. I like that they’re both internally acknowledging that they’re more than just friends – it’s one step closer! This story is feeling very much like a marathon and after doing the hard yards, we’re finally rounding the last corner and are ALMOST on the home straight.

Thanks again for blessing us with such a wonderful story!

And lol – I know Xander isn’t a favourite of many people here but I’ve always had a soft spot for him. He’s been a very loyal and encouraging friend to Willow in this story and I would love for him to witness Willow’s happy ending. Plus, Tara, who has hated Xander for all these years, may realize he’s not so bad after all.

[EmsInNz]

So I was looking back through this story, and according to my crazy future Australian calendar, it is September 6th - exactly 6 years from your first Neverland post.

This story has kept me coming back to the Kitten Board, year after year. Thank you for continuing to update and share it with us! I'm not sure what else to say but... thank you