77 
The title says it all.Seems like a lot of people are going back to S2 lately, and I'm really enjoying all these little trips back in time. This was no exception. Poor Jim. I don't know why I enjoy seeing him so tortured, but it's like catnip, or crack. I just want to reach out and pat his hand and tell him it's all going to work out eventually. Loved the Stockhom syndrome reference and the line "she was such a needy jailer." That's our Pam all right.
Sounds like you had a lot of inspirations for this, and they came together nicely. Great work, as always.
Author's Response: Thank you, Blanca! As a latecomer to TO I never got to explore s2 Jim while it was happening, so to go back to it every now and again is nice. Thanks for all your kind words!
Aww. I love so much about the things this fic chooses to be. Reading should be fun, and this most definitely was.I really liked the alternating structure with the blushes, and then that lovely double shot at the end. And, of course, DJ Jazzy Jim is adorkable.
Author's Response: Thank you so much! I\'m really glad you got a kick out of this, Blanca! :)
Oh, and I forgot to mention that the real Marcia and Greg actually got together in real life so... there you go. ;-)
Author's Response: HA! Apparently! Not gonna lie - that disturbs me a little bit. LOL!
A Thanksgiving story! Cool! I'm so impressed that you managed to get the entire office involved and keep them perfectly in character, especially Michael. He can be hard to get right, but you've totally got him down here. Really looking forward to seeing where this one goes!
Author's Response: Ensemble fics are a challenge but I wanted to give it another shot. I'm scared at my ability to channel Michael sometimes. So glad you're looking forward to more. This'll be done before the leftover turkey is gone I promise!!!
Aww. Jim and Pam at the end? So cute. You continue to amaze me with your ability to channel all of the characters so perfectly. I can just hear their voices in my head, every word as if it were an actual episode.
This was all good, but I especially loved:
"Shows what you know." Dwight scoffed. "I also have a substantial amount of Norse blood."
"So you're saying you're descended from horses?" Jim looked at him confused. "How is that possible?"
Hee! Thanks for this little bit of holiday cheer!
Author's Response:
Thanks so much Blanca. Hearing that you think I did the character's justice always makes me smile.
Oh Dwight and Jim. Such a great couple. They're my second favorite on the show. LOL!
I was so happy to find this little gem tonight. It was so heartfelt and sincere. I can just imagine Jim's poor mother in that house full of devious boys. And Jim's thought of giving Pam the space his mother had always wanted. I could just feel his love for her coming off the page. And the final scene of Pam trying to pry off that clown painting was wonderful. It's a sign that she's already started to think of the place as her home too. Really lovely.
Aww. This was fun and totally put me in the mood (for Christmas! what did you think I meant?). The first holiday together in a new home is always a momentous occasion. And I'm a bit of a holiday geek too, so this was an especially nice way to kick off the season!
One part for each season. Pam's p.o.v. Nothing could be more innocent than a freckle, right?I knew this was going to be good as soon as I saw your name, but the line, "She's engaged, not dead," absolutely clinched it for me. I thought, "Ooh, this is going to be good." And boy, was I right.
She really didn’t give his love life much thought.
Oh, S1 Pam. So stubbornly deluded. In a way, this reminded me of Pam's line in Casino Night about how being with Jim took away all the stress of planning her wedding. If only she had listened to herself talk (or think) she might have gotten a clue a lot sooner.
Here's a major hint, Pam:
It occurred to her that she couldn’t get that intense a reaction from Roy if she reached out and grabbed his crotch.
Also, that line just made me giggle.
It's always fun to go back the sexual tension of those days, and you've managed to capture that perfectly here. From the other comments, I understand that The Freckle is a Thing. I never knew that before, so I thank you for bringing something so vital to my attention. Now, like Pam, I'm sure I won't be able to stop noticing it.
Can't wait for more. I never knew freckles could be so interesting.
Author's Response: Wish I could take credit for being at the cutting edge of The Freckle 'Thing', but truth is - I didn't realize it was so widespread myself until I read these reviews, lol. Go figure. Good observation between that CN line and her attitude here...exactly. Anyway, hope you'll stay tuned for S2-5. I promise, a clue is on its way ;-) Thanks so much, Blanca!
Colette. Seriously. You are killing me with this. Way to bring the sexy. This is actually hotter, in a way, than all-out smut. Your descriptions of Jim in the yard are so clear and the imagery is so rich. I have a feeling I'll be coming back to this often. It's already in my favorites.
I love how Pam has accidentally stumbled upon something thrilling and forbidden, and she has no idea where those feelings come from or what to do with them. Jim, of course, has no idea the effect he has on her, but he still instinctively knows what to do to make it less awkward.
Because he's Jim.
You know what else is great about this? All through seasons 1 and 2 we pretty much always knew what Jim was thinking. It was so obvious to everyone but Pam. This explores what was going on in Pam's head during that time. She does notice things about Jim (freckles and all), she's just too good at convincing herself it doesn't mean anything.
She has the sudden inexplicable urge to stick her tongue out and lick it.
Good instincts, Pam. Follow those urges!
I'm definitely on board to see what you have in store for the next few seasons. I'm so glad you're inspired again.
Author's Response: Yes, exactly...she sort of stumbles into this forbidden zone 'accidentally on purpose.' Then, as you said, just shorts out. So glad you think this captures something of S1/2 Pam - she certainly could be an enigma wrapped in a cardigan sweater in those days, lol. Thanks so much, Blanca, for all your great detailed reviews!
First of all, I love the title of this -- mistaken identity. It applies both to Karen's and Pam's view of Jim. Karen is mistaken because she doesn't get the real "quirky" Jim. Pam does, but she's still Cleopatra (Queen of D-Nile) when it comes to his true feelings.
That is, if he thinks about her that way at all – which he obviously doesn’t.
Oh, is that so, Pam? Take a closer look. And not just at that freckle. (Speaking of which, I like that you went back to that one.)
I know I'm in the minority, but I didn't hate S3. I didn't even hate Karen. I think Pam really needed that year of growth. Of course, maybe it's easier looking back on it now, knowing that the final moments of The Job are looming at the end of the season.
Speaking of which, I'm kind of anxious to see just how Pam will "surprise" and "amaze" Jim when she finally has the chance - which she WILL. Not to mention the freckle discoveries she'll make along the way. Hee.
Author's Response: Glad you liked the title. I thought it would be multi-tasking, lol - re: Karen and Pam, as you say, and also for how Pam knows she's changed and thinks people (Jim) must still underestimate her. And yeah, S3 was a test by fire, but look where it got them ;-) Hope you'll think she amazed him enough in S4...and many thanks, Blanca!
Yay for season four sappiness! That was just the perfect amount. I love the constellation metaphor. Also, Jim and Pam waking up together is probably one of my favorite subjects in fanfic ever. I'll never get tired of reading scenes like this.
And that last line?
She thinks maybe they’re only random without the lines drawn between them too.
This was simply beautiful.
Author's Response: Glad you liked the metaphor. And I agree - there's something about sleepy, just waking up scenes with these two that always does it for me too. Pleased this one worked for you ;-) Thanks so much, Blanca!
Aw, I think I'm going to miss this now that it's over. Will you come back and update when we get to season six?
Here I was wondering where the freckle part would come in, since they weren't even in the same room, but you brought it around there in the end in spectacular fashion. So sweet. Slightly inebriated groom-to-be Jim is a very delicious Jim indeed. Thanks for sharing him.
And since this is the last chapter, I should tell you that this has been a fantastic pick-me-up over the last week or so. I've only been around this board since last summer, and I sometimes feel like I missed out on the heyday of Office fic, of which you're very much a part. So it was neat that I got to read a Colette fic in real time, as it were. Anyway, thanks so much for writing this. You really have a way with these characters, and your writing is always a sentimental treat. I hope you continue to be inspired.
Author's Response: Ah yes, slightly inebriated is a always a particularly delish vintage of Jim, I agree. And wow, I'm incredibly flattered by your comments - tickled to hear a 'Colette fic' is even a 'thing', lol. It's been a while since I've been inspired to write fanfic, but you never know...inspiration comes from odd places. For me, usually from somewhere as silly as a freckle ;-) Thanks so much, Blanca!
An AU look at what might have happened, had Pam really thought about Jim's decision to go to Australia.Ooh, I like this. Like, a lot. This is exactly what I need to get through the holiday hiatus. It's angsty, set in season two, AU and, of course, very well written. Bravo. I know I can always count on you, callisto, for some great Jim and Pam interaction that feels true to the characters.
I especially liked the parts where Jim was silently begging her to figure it out. I remember thinking pretty much the same thing. Heck, I still think that when I watch CR, even though I know how it turns out. Except in this, I guess I don't know how it turns out anymore. :-)
So, Pam's up next, huh? Can't wait to find out what's going through that girl's head!
Author's Response: Hey Blanca! I just bleed for Jim during this time. He\'s trying so hard to tell her without telling her. I\'m glad you like it... I am very curious to hear what everybody thinks of what Pam is thinking. It was not easy to try to get a handle on it, I hope I did her justice. Thanks for the review! :)
Oh, wow. Another phone call and we're still dancing around the real issues. And no, it wasn't just you. I definitely wanted to smack some sense into those two back then (in fact, I still do when I watch old episodes).
This was a really interesting look into Pam's psyche. I always like to read different ideas of what she could have been thinking. Jim was always so transparent, but Pam was much harder to read. Of course she got the hint, but it's also a pretty big leap of faith to take without absolute confirmation. And Jim has definitely been sending mixed signals. Confusion and miscommunication, they make such great fodder for angst.
I am encouraged at the setup you've established here, with Roy away for the night. I can't wait for that breakthrough you promised! I'm hooked.
Author's Response: Blanca! My review responses are slacking. I also have a tough time trying to understand Pam during this time, but she gets so little love in the midst of all the Jim-sympathy that I thought she deserved to be explored a little, tell her side of things. Jim wasn\'t exactly forthcoming, either. I\'m remembering CN and how that very morning he\'s helping her look at bands for the wedding! Gah! Speak up! Anyway, thanks for the review. You\'re awesome. :)
Gah. The truth comes out. This was beautiful, and hardly sappy. I'm so glad you didn't leave it in the no-man's land! And selfishly speaking, I really needed this tonight, so thankyouthankyouthankyou.
This was a great read, from beginning to end. I love discovering all the little ways they would have figured it out without things like season finales and sweeps and summer breaks getting in the way. And I don't know why exactly, but it's somehow all the more satisfying when there's a journey across an ocean of angst to finally get to that happy place. You paced this perfectly, with just the right amount of each. And you didn't make us wait too long in between parts, so bonus gift!
Fantastic work, as always callisto. You continue to prove why you are one of my favorite writers on this board.
Author's Response: Blanca, thank you. I always love hearing from you! I am still feeling a little guilty (?) for doing the \'easy thing\' and going with the happy ending, but hey, it\'s the holidays. :) I\'m happy you liked it, and I have to agree that there\'s something satisfying about reliving and exploring the angst knowing there\'s hope on the other side. Thanks for coming along with me on this one. :)
I was just thinking of you today, and how I need to go back and reread some of your stories. Probably because of The Distance and The Damage being on the front page. And now this shows up. Yay.
You had me at "built to love." Three simple little words, and yet so descriptive and right for Jim. One of the things I love most about fanfiction is the way it can make you look at the same old characters in brand new ways. This really did that for me. And, of course, the imagery is gorgeous. I love the idea of words as things you can collect or lose through a hold in your pocket at the wrong time. And it ends on such a lovely note, with the thought that "love" just isn't enough to describe the feeling in that moment. Just beautiful.
Nope, we can't have enough post-Casino Night stories. These little what-if scenarios are great. They keep me from yelling at the TV. It's amazing how one little turn, like Pam picking up the phone, can change everything. In this case, for the better, which is always nice to see. This was great, bashert. Thanks for writing it.
You already know I love this, Talkative, but I was truly honored by your dedication. The real reward for me is just being able to read your work. I think the edits you made were just the right thing to smooth out the transitions.
Oh, and I noticed that this was new:
She thought of the breathless kiss that he gave her nearly three years ago; the way it pulled at something very basic and obvious in her that she wanted nothing more than to ignore.
And it's probably one of my favorite lines you've written (or it ranks right up there).
I just love the idea of Jim and Pam secluded in their warm little post-wedding bubble. You really manage to paint a picture with words, and what a lovely picture it is. I'm beyond thrilled to have had even some tiny part in inspiring this.
Author's Response: Aaannd it\'s the lady of the hour! I\'m glad you liked how I cleaned up the transitions - hearing that I wasn\'t the only one who had a problem with them really helped give me enough distance to understand what needed to be done. That line was a very, very last-minute addition - I felt like there needed to be some sort of reference to their past relationship in there, if only briefly. You\'ve done such a wonderful job supporting me this time around that I\'m afraid I\'m going to be bugging you far more regularly from now on. Thank you, thank you.
Um, that'swhatshesaidthat'swhatshesaidthat'swhatshesaidthat'swhatshesaid... :D Times a hundred? Clever, Jazzfan. Hee.
Author's Response: Thanks Blanca, it\'s a good thing Michael wasn\'t there, he\'d have been hoarse from the TWSS\'s. Glad it made you smile.
Wow, Talkative! I'm not sure what I can add to this heaping mountain of praise, but I still feel a need to say something about this story here. You already know I adore this, but you deserve all the positive feedback this has been getting and I'm happy to add my voice to the chorus. It's such an interesting glimpse at the beginning of the Jim/Pam relationship, and it feels very true to the show and the characters. I can't take any credit for that, although I appreciate your kind dedication! I'm always here if you need someone to bounce ideas off of.
Author's Response: You! My co-conspirator! You\'ve already shared so much kindness with me that I\'m touched you would take the time to review. Thank you for that and get writing, sister!
I consider myself very lucky to be getting to read these chapters ahead of time. Thus, you already know what I liked about this (as a refresher, to sum up: everything). I feel like I'm constantly lavishing you with praise, my dear. But don't let it go to your head. I have a cattle prod and I'm not afraid to use it when it comes to the final chapter of this. Not with so many skeevy fantasies hanging in the balance.
Author's Response: Poor Ms. Blanca has to listen to Talkative do what she does best. Thanks so much for being a willing editor and a wonderful sounding board. You might not need that cattle prod - I\'m getting more and more comfortable with the final chapter. Perhaps you can downgrade to a sharp stick or a trail of M&Ms leading to the \"post\" button or something? Think on it. I\'ll be in touch soon.
I'm so glad you picked up this challenge, callisto. This was fun to read. And so true to life. You establish a great balance between real-life annoyances, yet there's always that undercurrent of love and happiness there. I love these little peeks at what everyday life might be like for Jim and Pam now that they're together and happy. Plus, it's just great to see you writing again. Here's hoping your inspiration continues (whether it means more of this or something else)!
Author's Response: Hi Blanca! Good to hear from you! I\'m glad you liked it. It\'s the weird little things that we really grow to appreciate about each other, isn\'t it? (Or find annoying. Or both.) It was fun to write, too!
Yay! I was so happy to see that you added to this. So are you saying that Jim doesn't even take his socks off during... you know? Because that's one of my own personal peeves, so I'm with Pam on that one. ;-) I might forgive it for a domesticated man who does the dishes, though. Wonderfully written, as always, callisto. Thanks so much for sharing!
Author's Response: I\'m not saying anything. It\'s up to you to decide. :)~ In any case, I think Pam\'s made her point and the socks will be coming off. And some men do dishes and clean up after themselves. I have met them. They are a lovely, rare breed, but they exist. Glad you liked it Blanca! Thanks for the review. I always love hearing from you. :)
All her life, Pam's felt invisible. That's all about to change. An AU take on Beach Games.Am I the first to review this? Yay! Well. You already know what I think of this amazing story. I'm so proud to have been a part of it, but really it's all you, my dear. You took the germ of an idea and came up with this wonderful notion of visibility and pointed out the parallels between Pam and Toby I probably wouldn't have thought about if it weren't for you. And I think the ending really is the best way to go. It's dark for poor Toby, but I'm so happy for Pam and Jim at this point. Oh, and the steam? Hot hot hot. I am skeptical when you say you don't have much experience writing it. ;-)
I'll let other people have their say now, but I couldn't resist taking one more opportunity to give you kudos!
Author's Response: Hello dahling! I\'m so indebted to you for all your advice and suggestions, particularly with the ending. :) Poor Toby, eh? As for the steam... well, let\'s just say I may have toyed around with writing it, but never had the guts to post any of it. So thank you for the vote of confidence. And big hugs for all your help! Thanks!!
Oh, poor Jim. You really made me feel him throughout this, jazzfan. I love the quiet, contemplative mood you set out on the patio with the two of them. And we all know that Pam is the perfect balm for what ails him. Great work.
Author's Response: I felt so bad for New Boss!Jim, I just had to see Pam made it all better somehow - because she\'s the one who can. *grin* I\'m happy you liked the mood on the patio. I\'ve been trying to get more \"descriptive\" with my writing, and I\'m excited to think I\'m making some progress. Thanks, Blanca, appreciate your comments.