New Fic - Neverland

[sadie]

So happy with the update! I need to re-read this again soon... Thanks so much for keeping this story going!

[zampsa19752001]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... I really loved their art tour and conversation during dinner... Can't wait for what happens in the "present"...

[fhiwda]

Umm....Hello?! Earth to Will! If talking about Oz with Tara made you uncomfortable, maybe that's a sign...just sayin! haha.

I loved the update, Doll. I will be waiting on pins and needles for the next update.

[SickSadGirl]

Wow! My honey and I were just joking about an update and me being too distracted by it to be responsible...which may have happened

As I mentioned before, I am loving this look into the past. However, it is killing me. It's so painful, especially on Tara's side. I kept getting that mixed feeling of hope and dread that inevitably occurs in those situations. Knowing you are interested in someone and the euphoria of love, but realizing how badly it can (and likely will) end. Plus the awkwardness of being honest, and trying to impress the other person.

Willow is so sweet and cute, but this is definitely the start of her lack of understanding what her words and actions mean to Tara. I can't wait to see what happens in the dark apartment! Uh...that sounded more naughty than I intended...though, if you choose to write it that way, I'm sure I won't mind

[wimpy0729]

Hey Heather! Oh boy, was I so happy to see this. When I saw Pips had left feedback, that's usually a clue that an update will soon be forthcoming, and I was right, so YAY! ( Hi Pips!)

Wow, even more with the comfort and ease, and also the different emotions these two had going on that day in the park. It's all just so lovely, but there is also that gnawing ache inside Tara that she is falling for a straight girl. It just reminds me that all that time they lived together, what she was going through, thinking Willow was with a guy then too. Just rips my insides out to think about it.

"What would your three wishes be?" Willow asked playfully.

"You, gay, in love with me."

Oh my, yes, please.

Then the whole nude vs. naked conversation. Loved it, and of course, it led to this...

"You're a great artist and you have a beautiful subject. I mean--"

Oh, nice. Willow just kind of unfiltered here and expressed what she was really feeling. And now, for Tara's nude drawing, I'm picturing something tasteful, like a back view, head, shoulders, the V of her back to the swell of her hips, kind of like Willow's dream in Restless (which I happen to have a copy of, autographed by Amber herself, in person, and yes, I did blush when I handed it to her, and tried not to drool). Of course, I also can't help but fantasize that it's a frontal view, but that's just the smutty kitten in me I guess.

Very interesting how Willow doesn't want anyone else there with them, even mentally (Oz). She just wants it to be them. Sweet I think, but confusing once more to Tara.

So many things to say, it's just so amazing in so many ways, but I don't want to take up too much of your time. Loved it, and thank you, thank you, thank you!


Wimpy

[Mrs. Pineapple]

Hey Heather!

I'm ridiculously proud of myself that I've been able to wait this one out without begging for an update. I admit that I expected a longer update, but quality above quantity; and this surely was worth the wait.

Ahem, I doubt that I'll be able to produce such an epic feedback again, so don't be disappointed

How Tara spoke about the subject was almost as fascinating as the work. The blonde had this wonderful way of speaking with her right hand.

This made me smile. Further in the story it is frequently emphasized that Willow knows next to nothing about art, but just the fact that Tara loves her makes her interested. And her noticing that particular way in which Tara speaks, is just one of the tell-tale signs of falling deeply in love.

She spoke words and Tara smiled. Just like that.

Once more a smiley-sentence. It's nice to finally see what Tara was thinking of in the beginning of the story. I believe, in one of the first chapters, she thinks of all the occasions on which 'she and the redhead just didn't click'. But then, she thinks about the Park. Back then, it was hard to relate to that, because we didn't have the information we have now. Wonderful to finally have that gap filled, but again: totally worth the wait.

She definitely did not want to burst whatever bubble they were in by heading home.

This was actually funny, because you used the bubble-image previously, but back then she was talking about how their bubbl etended to burst when they went away from home. It's funny to have the same image in a totally opposite context.

She was consciously keeping her eyes averted, unwilling to be caught staring at the captivating girl seated across from her. She looked to the ocean, then to the bar. She snuck a quick look at the redhead and her face softened, feelings swelling inside of her before she quickly looked away. She took another sip of water and her gaze again dipped to the table top.

I loved how you sketched nervous-Tara, who (as opposed to Willow) is already very conscious of her feelings for the other girl. It was incredibly endearing to follow the path of her eyes. Nicely done.

Who knows if she'd ever even see Willow again after this trip.

Hehe. Who knows what fate has in stall for you...

The three wishes-conversation made me smile. Especially this:

"And the world was so close to everlasting peace," the blonde mock sighed.

The Viagra-conversation was embarrassing, but totally recognizable (to me, at least )

Then: hum. I admit I never really studied the different connotations of Nude/Naked, so I have you to thank for opening my eyes to the subject

"You know, like how they always show in movies with the weird guy standing in the middle of the room, strategically placed canvases on easels covering, stuff."

Again, totally recognizable

"You're a great artist and you have a beautiful subject. I mean–"

I had a chuckle here. Willow finally slipped up, huh? And not in a 'just friends'-way, either. The line is slowly beginning to blur, and I think she is starting to realize it...

Talking about Oz was surely awkward, I think one of the first moments in the day when they genuinely don't know what to say. This should bring out the alarm-bells for Willow. Even if her relationship with him isn't ideal, she shouldn't be embarrassed about talking about him, unless... But I guess her epiphany is still to come, though you're already subtly dropping hints.

And now, now comes the part which is described in the song, isn't it? You're making me mighty curious...
But, I'll try to be patient (can't promise anything, though )

Thanks for the wonderful update,
Helena

[beautiful_love]

Yay Heather! An update! And a very lovely one at that. I love how just Tara talking about art is enough to totally enrapture Willow, who knows nothing about it. They are so cute with all the little touches and smiles. Ah, when you first realize you have a serious crush... You can't help but smile at that. I was thinking the same thing Wimpy was about Willow not wanting anyone else to be with them at dinner, even if it's only via discussion. It was very sweet but the whole think with Oz was definitely a little off. Really looking forward to the next update though, whenever that may be.

[Kajun]

Hi Heather! I can’t think of a better way to start off the New Year than reading an update for Neverland –Hooray!

I love the idea of Tara pointing out all the places they had just visited on the diorama. Most people probably wouldn’t give the miniature park a second glance after spending most of the day there. It’s a nice detail, one of many, that shows just how special this day was for both girls. I had to giggle imagining the yummy noises as the dynamic duo teased Buffy and the subsequent blushing as each girl’s thoughts inevitably wandered into non-food territory. Still.. glad the Buffster didn't interrupt their romantic dinner.

Tara starts to process her feelings for Willow and goes from having a crush to being in love --A thought she quickly tries to shut down. Good luck with that. In present time, Tara doesn’t realize that all three wishes are on the brink of finally coming true. They’ve actually been true for many years; she just doesn’t know it YET. Whose fault is that, Heather? And isn’t that really just one wish times three. Reminds me of a WishingWill. Okay, okay.. it sounded funny in my head.

Good on Willow for letting Tara know she shouldn’t feel embarrassed for getting emotional earlier in the day. I have to agree about the two bathtubs.. WTF? LOL! Tara needs to watch Amber’s movie, LLL – there’s a morbidly hilarious bit involving Viagra. Anyhoo.. It was so cute when Willow let slip she thinks Tara is beautiful. So very true, btw. Willow is eager to learn about art, discuss the weirdness of words and pretty much every subject on the planet but one.. Oz. I think, with Oz, it was always about the band and what HE wanted. Willow probably felt like the junior to the junior partner. Tara, on the other hand, shows genuine interest in Willow’s thoughts and feelings. Of course, I’m going by canon Oz and yours may be completely different.

The day in the park has ended but now it’s the evening and they’re back at Tara’s apartment. I’m starting to get nervous coz we all know this day didn’t end with content snuggles in front of the fireplace. I’m almost expecting Willow to confess her troubles with Oz and reveal that it’s because she was caught in a fluke with Xander or some other dude. Erk. I don’t want Willow to be the bad guy. It’s Willow.. ya know?

This really made my day, Thanks so much! And.. the penguin that could also be a duck (long story) was a huge success –thanks for asking! As always.. another brilliant chapter. Or should I say half-chapter?

AWESOME..

[SylverMaki]

Yay update wooooooooo. So yea treadmill desk helped me for ten lbs so definitely works. I can totally type at 3mph so I am multi-talented. Can't wait for more awesome updates. Thanks for continuing to write. I can't wait for the feet sweeping. I mean them both being swept off their feet in present equally by each other. And...Xander to visit. I know he'll come, I just know.

[imareal1too]

Heather,

I've been reading this fic since about 2007, and I still get a little giddy when I realize you have posted another bit of dreamy angst. I joined this group just to tell you how much I like your style and to thank you for continuing to write such an amazingly fabulous story. So...thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Lara

[JustSkipIt]

OMG. These 3 years ago updates are just so... easy and perfect. They are totally falling in love in one afternoon like they are in a song or something. Both of them just don't want to break into it or jinx it. How wonderful. I love the way you describe how Willow sees Tara. It's very... it's like you're in love with Tara which I guess in a way a writer has to be to express how in love with her Willow can be. I hope that makes sense. I see it the other way but more W --> T here.

Hmmm. I have no commitment to go back and search 62 previous updates to find the one where they made dinner together but didn't they make a chicken, spinach, soy sauce, some sort of cheese thing? Maybe I'm wrong about the spinach but ... Hell. Now I've got to go search it out, don't I? No good.

Ok. This is great and I can't wait for all that longer update that got away from you. How are the wife and son? Is he 2? 3? Fun age!

ETA: Ok, either I have read this too many times (3 or 4) or I have an incredible memory or I am a dork. Yes, the dinner thing had spinach.

[wilgen]

Hi Heather,

So happy you updated 2 times since the last time I was here. Checked today because someone in another fandom recommended a fic named 'Neverland' and I was ready to cut the bitch if you're epic story was rewritten within this other fandom. Thank god it was not (mainly because I don't want to cut somebody) but it made me think of you. So here I am being ecstatic about the 2 updates and now off to read and finding a rag to dust of the Word file for updating.

Take care, Ingrid.

[Sanpfa]

So, I just realized that I have not left feedback for the latest update. My excuse is a crazy busy schedule which leaves little time for frolicking around the kitten board...but, here it is, in all of its shining new feedback glory

This update made me so happy...it's just perfect...in a "I don't ever want this day to end" kind of way.

Now for some overall "Neverland" feedback...

I can't decide which I'm more in love with...your Tara, or your Willow. I mean...when I'm reading your updates I literally feel like I have a split personality. You truly make us feel what each of them is feeling, so when Tara is thinking -

You, gay, in love with me, the blonde quickly thought before her mind ground to a halt. Wait, 'in love...?!'

I feel her desire and angst as if it were 2000 and I was falling in love with my first straight girl again.

Then when Willow has her moments when she's totally enthralled by Tara - speaking, smiling, stammering - or any of the other adorable things she does, I feel like someone has been reading the diary I wrote in when I was 16, about how whoever I had a crush on that week was perfect in every way.

I'm going to have terrible withdrawals when we go back to "present day" Neverland...or maybe anxiety...most likely anxiety because I don't want this fic to end.

Thanks so much for this...You are extremely talented and it's a pleasure to read your work

And just for good measure - and it's time to get back to being !

[KnightlyLove]

Thank you sooo much for updating this wonderful story! Pretty much a story that will always have a place in my heart.

[Babbles4Twillow]

Can't believe I missed this update!! Finally got to read it and now I'm chomping at the bit for more!!

[T.G.I.F.]

It's been too long since the last update... I can't take this any longer *snif*

[JustSkipIt]

And seriously, I don’t see Willow and her closet-edness as the hurricane of destruction Debra does, even if Heather does agree. Because you know what? Someone else being gay? Not that big of a deal. When it’s you, it’s the biggest deal in the world until you’re out. But someone else? Even your best friend? Sorry, not really a source of destruction.

Ok. sorry to hijack for a moment and certainly if anyone thinks there is an update because of this. I just happened to see this comment from Kate (back in June of last year). So let me clarify: I don't think the destruction is because she is gay. It is because she has not been open with her friend and mother. She has allowed her secrecy and shame and confusion and plan to get in the way of her relationship with Buffy and Xander's relationship with Buffy. And you know what? A little of shame on Xander too for allowing himself to be stuck in the middle like this. Yes, Willow needs a friend she can trust but 3 years? And Xander's relationship with Buffy is messed up now? At some point he should have told Willow that he would no longer lie for her. That he wouldn't call and tell Buffy but that the next time she asked him a direct question he would either say "you should talk to Willow" or tell the truth or at least say "I'm not at liberty to tell you but there is a perfectly good explanation that doesn't make me look like a schmuck." I can't even imagine how I would feel after 3 years of having a friend not confide something like this in me but confiding it in our other best friend. So it's not that Willow is gay. It's that she doesn't trust Buffy enough to tell her.

[BuffyFan4ever]

I love this story. Please update.

Sorry if bumping this up confused anyone. I just wanted to be post 3000.

[Shmoodles223]

I started reading this a few days ago and I got hooked now im already all caught up! This is just an amazing story

[KnightlyLove]

Did I mention this story is pretty much my top 5 favorite story ever?
I'm considering rereading it again. Quick! Stop me!

[BeMyDeputy]

Did I mention this story is pretty much my top 5 favorite story ever?
I'm considering rereading it again. Quick! Stop me!

Why on earth would I want to deter you from that? I mean . . . it's all awesome and stuff.


And, you know, deserving of feedback, which I haven't forgotten about. It's just . . . their day is so nice, and you know that something is going to happen once they get back . . . so you don't want them to go, you know? But then, they have to, because it's a turning point for Willow.

Sorry, I'm not really up to 'coherent' right now.

[RoyoNobus]

Thank you.

Just, on so many levels, thank you. For writing this story. Really thank you. If it hadn't been so amazing that i felt i needed to write a reply I don't know that I ever would have joined the kittenboard which I am ever so glad I did. To say that this story "changed my life" would not be absurdly far from the truth, however cliched it may appear. The way you have developed the characters, developed their thoughts, has really helped me in coming to terms who I am as an individual--something that many people my age seem to struggle with. For enriching my life with this story, I thank you.

I'd like to start my review by commenting on your writing style. The word I would use to describe it is: immaculate. For starters, the way you write the characters, from their dialogue to their thought processes to the subtle expressions they make that we have all come to love, are so true to how they were on the show that I find myself speculating as to whether or not you were actually one of the writers on Buffy. If that is the case, I'll have you know that that's cheating In terms of your writing as writing, I''ve read "literature" that pales in comparison to your work and that's no joke! Your attention to detail is so vivid and beautiful I have found myself doing image searches of the Fillmore and other places mentioned so I can actually see the tantalizingly beautiful images you have put in my mind. You are the master of alliteration. I kneel before thee O wonderful wordsmith. Your writing could not be more wonderful (and I'm not just saying that so you'll post again some time soon [although since we're talking about it...]).

In terms of the story itself. It has made me laugh out loud and cry myself to sleep. My heart has swelled at times and broken at others. The emotional rollercoaster I've been on reading this story has almost reminded me what it's like to have a life heheh... The Park chapters are beautiful. I am so conflicted because of them. On the one hand, I love them and don't want them to end. On the other hand, I want so desperately to read the coming out chapters. I have been anticipating them so very much. On the third hand (because I have three hands in this scenario) I know that when those chapters come it means that the story is coming to an end which I want to happen because of closure and whatnot but also never ever want to happen ever because I love this story so very much. Anyhoo, that's my inner turmoil for ya (maybe I should go bake some cookies.)

To sum up: THANK YOU. So very very much.

[Sanpfa]

Bumped on my birthday and I hoped it was an update!!

[AmbeRocks]

ok, so i gave it a go to the park day updates, finally. beautiful as always!
having been away for a couple of months, i was less focus on it being in the past and not new present development. and what a day... i can get why they both can't stop refering to it.

ok and now can we have present stuff goodie? pleeeeease! say, before thanksgibing at least?

thanks for letting us appreciate your talent, and keep updating (for life if you want!)

Jen

[bloodynails]

I found Neverland about year and a half ago and it was love at first read. Since then I've re-read the whole story two times, and re-read my favorite parts more times than I care to admit... I can't thank you enough for writing this amazing story... and really, part of the reason why I've been lurking and loving for so long without reviewing --- shyness aside --- is that I feel like every compliment I can think of (how great all characterizations are without exception, how true the characters feel, how beautifully detailed is the picture you draw of their lives and personalities, and perhaps above all, how beautifully you manage to write Willow and Tara as what we all know them to be: soul mates) every single good thing I want to tell you has already been said, in a much nicer and more eloquent way, by someone (actually, by many someones) before me (I know because I actually enjoy reading the reviews of this story too.)

What finally moved me to de-lurk (and I've been strong in my lurkage, I even managed to survive the flinch!) was actually a personal turn of events: it turns out I'll have (and off course seize) the opportunity to spend the up-coming month of July by the Bay. I've only ever been to the States twice, very briefly, and both times to the east cost. I have a dear american friend who lives in San Francisco, and she keeps telling me how she's sure I'll love it, how its a city you cant help failing in love with.... but the funny thing is, I'm already a little bit in love with San Francisco, with the San Francisco you've created... and I'm so so curious to see the real thing! I just know I'll think of Neverland often once I'm there, walking trough the Golden Gate Park, seeing all the neighbourhoods you mention... Off course there is much more to San Francisco then this story (then any story, really), but do I feel like your story, your words, added a flavor to the place I wouldn't be able to feel otherwise... Your affection for the city shows and its infectious. So thanks (also) for that.

[WiccaBitch]

This fic is beautiful. Only word to describe it that I can think of. I can't wait to see how everything happens. You are a brilliant writer thank you for this magnificent fic

[trekimble]

Wow, this is an amazing story. Beautifully written. I love the suspense of the story. It keeps me on the edge of my seat :) I started reading Neverland two days ago and I could not stop. It captures the reader. I feel like Im on a roller coaster ride or something. So Thanks so much for sharing and writing. I cant wait for the next update.

[reptile01]

Darn read it from the start in 4 days thought it was completed, This must be the longest running fanfic in history!

[RainbowNerdette]

Awww that sucks :(
Had to laugh a bit at it still being called a new fic, as I remember it being here already when I first came to the kitten, even under my old account!

[Mrs. Pineapple]

Okay, so I took pride in the fact that I have been very very patient indeed about not praying for another update. But half a year later, my patience is kind of wearing thin. So here I am, begging again (Man, I feel predictable).

Pleeaaaaaaaaaase update??

Okay I'm done now.
Helena