Date: August 06, 2007 11:04 am Title: Chapter 10: Doors You Opened I Just Can't Close
So, I was pretty sure I was not going to be satisfied with this "ending," but I really am! I will never doubt you again. :-) Using this as backstory, it really makes Pam's "What are you doing?" on Casino Night make sense. Also, in Valentine's Day, when Jim tells Kelly, "It'd be really great if he was into you. But he's not." With this backstory in mind, that means a whole lot more. Also, both of them thinking that the other doesn't remember the night? Uggghhh, my heart!
I've really enjoyed reading this story, and I'm sure I will enjoy the, um, alternate ending :-) You did a great job bringing it full circle as it stands right now, though!
Author's Response:
Ahhh, it is SUCH a relief to hear you say that, honestly. This ending is what I had in mind when I began the story -- was intrigued with the idea of them having shared a "moment" years and years earlier, then I wanted to tie it back in to the episodes we've seen. But then in reviews, so many people expressed a desire to see it go in an AU direction that I felt I should explore that avenue as well. Anyway - yeah, there were so many moments in various episodes that I wanted to relate back to this one, but I was afraid to re-hash too much. (You're totally right, BTW, about Valentine's Day -- hadn't even thought of that one!)
I really appreciate your feedback - hopefully you'll be as happy with the AU stuff... :o)
Thanks again!
Date: August 05, 2007 03:15 pm Title: Chapter 1: Content to Compromise
I just love, love, love this story!!! Please update soon...I am eagerly waiting!! I am hooked! And I have to say I felt like crying over that last chapter!
Author's Response:
So glad you're enjoying it! I'm sorry it took so long for me to update; I was really nervous about the chapter I just posted, so of course I sat on it forever... :O)
Thanks for reviewing!
9 [Report This]Date: August 03, 2007 03:58 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Umm, I haven't been reviewing which is bad, but this story is so freaking good. I love the details and you really give a great "sense of place." Looking for updates daily - that's when you've got me good!
Author's Response:
Wow, I really appreciate that! Hopefully I'll be updating later tonight or some time tomorrow.
Thanks for the review!
Date: August 03, 2007 03:39 pm Title: Chapter 1: Content to Compromise
The suspense is killing me! Where's Chapter 10?
Author's Response:
Working on it -- working on it! Hopefully I'll get it up later tonight or tomorrow.
And that is, of course, what she said...or he said. :o)
Thanks for reviewing!
10 [Report This]Date: August 02, 2007 02:02 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
You're an amazing writer, and this is an amazing story. I'm eagerly awaited the e-mail notification that tells me this story has been updated.
Author's Response:
Wow, thanks so much! I'll be working on it for the rest of tonight (such a glamorous, exciting life I lead, hee), so hopefully there'll be an update late tonight or sometime tomorrow.
Thanks for reviewing!
Date: August 01, 2007 03:35 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Oh, so heartbreaking! But I know there's going to be a happy ending...riiight??
Author's Response:
There will be a happy ending...*cough, cough*
Slow, evil Kevn smile. :o)
Thanks for reviewing!
10 [Report This]Date: August 01, 2007 01:30 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Another fantastic installment. You write so vividly that I feel like I'm watching a movie or like I'm in the Poconos. If I were there, Pam would be in the pool! ;-P
By any chance, is your theme song "I'm Only Happy When It Rains" by Garbage? That's the song I picture you listening to when you write...wonder why? :)
Looking forward to more...there is more right? Oh, and the Eagles do kick ass! Thanks for that.
Author's Response:
Hah - that's an awesome song, and I must say...I am really happy when it rains (thunderstorms are awesome!), but no.... More along the lines of "Electrical Storm" by U2. Hee.
Thanks so much for your kind words - it's always great to hear that a reader's able to picture what I'm writing! And yeah, there's more. It's about to go AU, baby!!!!! :) Hopefully I'll get it updated later tonight or tomorrow....
Thanks again for reviewing!
10 [Report This]Date: August 01, 2007 10:51 am Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Ok, you're sure this isn't the last chapter, right? Tres angsty! But wonderful.
Author's Response:
I promise that this isn't the last chapter; you have my word! ;O)
Thanks for reviewing!
Date: August 01, 2007 02:31 am Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Ooh, man - right in the grief bone.
Pam's feelings are so true to life, and I know people get frustrated with her because she won't leave Roy but what's holding her back is... well, it's big, but it's not as big as she wants it to be. I feel for her so much and yet want to comfort Jim just as much.
Author's Response:
Wow - that's really great to hear (that you found her feelings so true to life), because I'm always worried when I write scenarios like this that either they're too overdramatic (kept thinking, would they both freak out this much about a little drunken making out? --- ANd I still say yes) or that Pam's actions don't translate (i.e. if she wants Jim so damned much, then why doesn't she just leave Roy?). So I'm glad to hear you say that you found it / Pam believable here.
And because there is a part of my brain that is synched with Kevin Malone's, I must belt out a TWSS in response to your comment that, "It's big, but it's not as big as she wants it to be."
*Michael Scott snort*
Thanks so much for reviewing!
10 [Report This]Date: August 01, 2007 01:07 am Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
" headphones on as he listens to U2's Achtung Baby"
Further proof that you read my thoughts, because not only is this exactly what I was hoping for, but I am listening to Achtung Baby RIGHT now!! Hearts, stars & rainbows to you for an immeasurably wonderful chapter.
Author's Response:
First - so glad to hear that this is what you were hoping for. It was really, really tempting to make this AU and have her just take it all back and say to hell with it all -- but I started this story with the intention of NOT going there, because I was fascinated by the prospect of a really brief interlude like that happening between them long before the cameras, but they just never talk about it.
All this to say that it's nice to hear you say that you enjoy the direction in which I took this. (I'll still be doing an AU version because...well, it's too damned tempting NOT to, but it'll pick up in an entirely different work.)
Second -- so glad you liked the U2 reference! I wanted to be more specific about what songs he was listening to, but I didn't want to lay it on too thick -- I was specifically thinking of "So Cruel" ("She wears my love like a sea through dress / Her lips say one thing / Her movements something else"). Or all the lyrics of that song fit, actually. And the other was "Who's Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses" -- the whole "Heaven's white rose / the doors you opened / I just can't close" just KILLS me.
But I digress. :O)
Thank you so much for that review! ANd hey - I didn't realize you were one of our resident boys! :o)
Author's Response: ETA: Duh. I see you are not a boy; you were quoting the story. Helloooooooo. I'm a bit slow on the uptake today; I apologize, LOL.
Date: August 01, 2007 12:56 am Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
You're a fantastic writer, and I am enjoying this story so much, but...
Seriously, why doesn't Pam just run over Jim with Roy's truck already, that torturous, torturous woman! lol Of course, that's what I said through the entirety of season two, so it's totally not your fault. ;)
Author's Response:
Hah - I'm thinking that if this story were real (and, uh, you know, if these characters were real -- soo easy to forget that they aren't sometimes), Jim would probably be begging her to do just that. :o)
Thanks so much for all your reviews!
Date: July 31, 2007 09:48 pm Title: Chapter 1: Content to Compromise
Wow, I feel so AFFECTED by this story somehow....I actually look forward to getting off work and reading your latest chapter in this Jim/Pam saga! All I can say is keep up the great work. Im so thankful that come season 4, there's a real possibility these two will be together..FINALLY!
Author's Response:
Okay, the things you said in that review? That you feel so affected? That you actually look forward to it? WOW. Seriously -- you made my entire night! I love to write, don't get me wrong, but it's that much more exciting to write when I know there's actually somebody out there who's interested in what I'm writing. :o)
...And yeah - it's easier to write angst this summer than last (OMG, last summer writing angst was like...a dicey thing, LOL) simply because we've got the promise of a happy, happy situation in the premiere. :o)
Thanks so much for reviewing!
Date: July 31, 2007 09:33 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Another excellent chapter, I think bringing again to light so well why these two struggled so much to really be together even with the great connection and attraction they obviously share. They both share such a passivity that it really seems to take the perfect storm for either of them to take a step forward instead of waiting for something to happen. But I like that you reminded us of how Roy and Pam's dynamic likely was at the beginning-that she was the one who the outside world considered unworthy. I imagine that has long since been part of her attachment to Roy-he picked her at a time when he could have had anyone and she wasn't necessarily the first girl the quarterback would normally pick. It takes a long time to break out of that sort of dynamic, and realize that she actually deserves better than what she gets from that guy she was so lucky to get in the first place, if I'm making any sense in this late hour. You do a really great job of making us feel for Pam and reminding us why this is all so hard, even with someone as amazing as Jim right there.
Author's Response:
You know, you're spoiling me with these long, detailed reviews; I'm starting to look forward to them with every chapter I post! Once again, YES: ITA. We all tend to associate that passivity with Pam, but I think Jim is almost as guilty of it as she is -- though in his case, he has a more tangible reason for that (i.e. she has a fiance, and he probably doesn't want to risk taking that step for fear of screwing up their friendship). And yeah, I do think Pam's self esteem issues (from seasons 1 & 2, at least) could well stem from her high school experiences with Roy (because she seems to have a fantastic relationship with her parents). Add to that the fact that Roy never seemed to go out of his way to make her feel good about herself (quite the opposite in some cases -- his lovely threat in "Basketball" that if she doesn't tip the ball his way, she'll sleep in the truck, anyone?). I'm really glad that this translated for you here -- because one of the things that I expressed concern about to Starry Dreamer, my beta, was whether or not the Pam/Roy memories toward the end of the chapter were a) relevant and b) remotely interesting (LOL).
Anyway, thanks so much for yet another thoughtful, detailed review; I so appreciate it!
10 [Report This]Date: July 31, 2007 08:43 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Wow, Pam thinking she's not good enough for Jim...I have never thought of it that way, ever. Silly, silly Pam.
It almost hurts to see her walk away from that, and makes me a little angry at her. I mean, sure, what she and Roy have is comfy and known, but it really is only half of what she could have, at least.
I want to yell at her, and then I realize...oh yeah, story.
Author's Response:
Yeah, that's one of those moments in the text that just sort of...came out. But I could see her thinking that, particularly after having been with Roy for SUCH a long time, you know?
And hey - I'm glad you want to yell at her even though it's just a story! :o) Thanks so much for reviewing!
Date: July 31, 2007 07:23 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Using a U2 song I adore for the title of the chapter, and then punching me in the grief bone in said chapter? Bravo! Amazing work, as usual. I could just feel the sadness and frustration on both of their parts. I think I need a drink!
Author's Response:
Isn't that song amazing? I've already used it for the title of a fic last fall; otherwise, it'd have been the title for this one as well! The next chapter will also take its title from a U2 song (as will the spinoff story, now that I'm thinking about it, hee). Bono's a freaking genius.
Thanks so much for taking the time to review! *raises cyberwine* Cheers! :o)
Date: July 31, 2007 06:43 pm Title: Chapter 1: Content to Compromise
Poor Pam, I know just how she feels.. making all of her decisions based on fear. I hope that Jim makes her brave enough to take a risk and face her fear. I absolutley loved this chapter, the part with Pam silently crying while Jim lay next to her just ruined me.
Can't wait for a resolution to this no matter what direction you take it..I'm sure it will be wonderful. (Although your mention of future smut has got me hoping...)
Author's Response:
Yeah, it's easy to let fear motivate your actions (or inaction, as the case may be). I'm glad you like the image of her crying in bed next to him; it was a nice image to write, in an odd way.
Thanks so much for your kind words (and yeah, smut's on its way...LOL) --
Date: July 31, 2007 06:07 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
all this angst... I hope it has a happy ending! can't wait!
Author's Response:
There will be a happy ending in some form; you have my word. (Er, was that a Clintonian answer or what? Heh: "I did not write that angsty story...")
Thanks so much for reviewing!
9 [Report This]Date: July 31, 2007 05:43 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
girl7, you are such a genuinely good writer. I always enjoy your stories, even the sad ones. You have a talent, and a clear voice, and you draw the characters and scenes so vividly that I can see them in my mind's eye. Thanks for all the great stories - more please!
Author's Response:
Wow, thank you so much - seriously! I'm glad you're enjoying this (and the others as well); there'll definitely be more to this one over the next week or so.
Thanks again!
Date: July 31, 2007 05:18 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Ugh...my heart! Honestly, this makes my heart hurt. The image of Pam crying in bed while Jim holds her hand...uggghh! You have reduced me to making Michael-like sounds! It's so sad that Pam doesn't even think of leaving Roy. I think it's completely realistic that she can't at this point, but that doesn't mean it's not sad. It will be interesting to see if Pam is right and things get back to normal at work. I don't think she will be, though :-P
Author's Response:
I'm so glad to hear that the image moved you; I wanted there to be a "tender" (lame word, can't come up with another one right now) moment between them, but something that could be plausible. (And I just didn't see him holding her after all that had just happened.)
Re: whether or not she's right and things will return to normal at work...stay tuned! :o)
Thanks so much for reviewing this so faithfully -- I really appreciate it!
Date: July 31, 2007 03:23 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
Talk about amping the tension and heartbreak! I love the changes you made- they are perfect. It's incredibly sad for Jim, but you just know that things will work out somehow, right? Poor, oblivious Roy... I loved the day dreaming that you have Pam do about her history with Roy- it's like she's gearing up for when she sees him again. Another amazing chapter.
Author's Response:
Why thank you, my dear -- I appreciate your helping me out so much with the structure/flow of this one. And you're right on with the "gearing up for when she sees him again" -- absolutely what I was going for.
You rock!
9 [Report This]Date: July 31, 2007 02:54 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
My heart's in my throat. Boy oh boy.
Author's Response: That's what I'm goin' for, baby! :o) Thanks so much for reviewing this so faithfully -- I really appreciate that!
10 [Report This]Date: July 31, 2007 02:30 pm Title: Chapter 9: Running To Stand Still
How can I hate and love you at the same time? Seriously. Let me know. Beautiful, per usual. Thankfully I know you'll make it worth our while as you always do. (TWSS? hehe)
Author's Response:
I'm thinking Jim could probably answer that question for you right about now, LOL. Thanks so much for reviewing - and yes, I will make it worth your while (at least, I hope I do!).
Of course, that is definitely what she said.
Thanks so much for reviewing!
10 [Report This]Date: July 31, 2007 01:47 pm Title: Chapter 8: The Lights Go Out and It's Just the Three of Us: You Me and All That Stuff We're So Scared Of
UGH!!!
thats all i can say. i loved everything about this chapter.
<3
Author's Response:
Yay! Glad to hear you enjoyed it -- more is on the way shortly. ...Uh, TWSS?
Thanks for reviewing!
Date: July 31, 2007 01:21 pm Title: Chapter 8: The Lights Go Out and It's Just the Three of Us: You Me and All That Stuff We're So Scared Of
"Will you tell me about it?" Seriously?! Jesus Pam. Are you that drunk or just that dense?! And it just got worse from there. Honestly, are you trying to kill me dead? This was so painful. It took me a very long time to read; I had to keep taking breaks because it just hurts so much. But it's also so beautiful. Damn you and your sublime writing!! ;-)
Author's Response:
I know - I'm awful; I can't help it! I don't know why I feel compelled to write Pam as so horrendously awful to Jim sometimes.... I'm not trying to kill you dead, I promise -- just want to make you squirm a little, entertain you a bit, LOL. (That came out sounding all kinds of wrong and dirty; I apologize.)
Thanks so much for reviewing! I'll be posting the next chapter in a few hours, I think.
Date: July 31, 2007 12:52 pm Title: Chapter 8: The Lights Go Out and It's Just the Three of Us: You Me and All That Stuff We're So Scared Of
Oh, stupid Pam. Stupid, honorable Pam, who is braver than anyone gives her credit for because she tried so hard to hold onto the dying relationship with Roy, who tried to juggle everything and lost, and still managed to walk on fire. Stupid, stupid girl. Bravery is sometimes overrated.
Author's Response:
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Sometimes your reviews read like poetry. No kidding. :o) Yeah, bravery is sometimes overrated...as is fidelity when the relationship in question has long since been dead. (Ur, I think I should clarify there -- fidelity prior to marriage; after marriage...well, like they say: engaged ain't married, LOL.)
Thanks for reviewing!
Author's Response:
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Sometimes your reviews read like poetry. No kidding. :o) Yeah, bravery is sometimes overrated...as is fidelity when the relationship in question has long since been dead. (Ur, I think I should clarify there -- fidelity prior to marriage; after marriage...well, like they say: engaged ain't married, LOL.)
Thanks for reviewing!