Okay - this chapter was torture (a good kind).  So Dan is taken care of ... what next???  tell me, tell me ... please??  Great stuff, thanks!

Author's Response:

Hi boomerand,

Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!

Glad you liked it... even though it was torture! Lucky you didn't have to wait long to find out what happened next, huh!?

-SwimmingBee

Ah, jeez... Update soon! Please??  My heart hurts a little.  :(

Author's Response:

Yay, you're back! Thanks so much for reading!

Aww, sorry for hurting your heart a little bit. But maybe that's a good thing. Maybe it's helped you to realize how much you want Gemma and Rob together! Gemma's heart was hurting too. :(

The next chapter has already updated. My validation beta was ultra speedy! Go check it out... I'd love to hear what you thought!

Thanks again!

-SwimmingBee

Okay... from this point on there are absolutely no parallels to my Back Street Boys Story.  LOL!!

Good chapter, I think every girl in America (& beyond) wishes that Rob was just like this in Real Life. ;-)  Good fantasy stuff.

Author's Response:

Hey again!

So AJ McLean didn't murmur into your ear and tell you that you were adorable? Hehee! Would you have wanted him to!?

Definitely a fun fantasy story. So glad you're enjoying it! :)

Thanks for reading and reviewing!

-SwimmingBee

Hi there,

Just found your story and am loving it.

Witty dialogue, and wonderful descriptions that make you feel like you're right there with them.

I love Gemma-she's so fun and refreshing and her internal monologues are brilliant. And to finally come to the epiphany!-Yes! Sometimes you need to lose someone to admit just how much they mean to you.

Extremely well written and realistic.

Great job!

Leslie

Author's Response:

Hi Leslie,

Yay, I'm so glad you're on board with my little story! I've been reading yours too, but I've been bad and haven't reviewed! Sorry!! I'll get onto that this weekend. I love Sarah and Rob! (Your Sarah, that is... not mine!)

Thanks so much for your lovely comments. I'm so pleased you love Gemma... She's lots of fun to write - girly and sweet, yet strong at the same time. And maybe just a little naive at times too. But that's what makes her Gemma, right!? 

Yes, those spotty shoes came in handy to help her reach her epiphany, huh? You're right - losing Rob really was the wake-up call she needed.

Thanks again for reading and reviewing, I'm flattered! Hope to see you back again soon!

-SwimmingBee

 

 

!?!?!?!? Okay first let me say I have alot of faith in you... But Wow that chapter was so out of left field it was a great curve ball (sorry for the Americanisms) BUT!!!! I hope she does NOT go to beg Rob for anything!! She is a sweet girl who really did not know how to just dump someone and she has nothing to say sorry for... Rob needs to be the one begging on her door step...

I know you have a master plan for these two but holy moly she did not deserve how Rob treated her... Insecure bastard...LOL

S.B I will be pacing the floor until the next update so tell your valadators to hurray it up!!!!

 Hugs...

                   Wendy

Author's Response:

Hey Wendy,

Wow, I love those strong feelings you had against Rob there! I'm glad you have faith in me... things get better, don't worry!

It was pretty out of left field, you're right. Gemma wasn't expecting Rob's reaction at all, but on the other hand... he had warned her from the beginning that he was "fucked up" and we knew from Tom that he tends to push people away when they get too close. But you're right, Rob definitely needs to make it up to her!

And pace no longer, because the new chapter is up already! My validation beta was ultra-speedy this time, so go check it out. Hopefully Rob has redeemed himself somewhat. I'd love to hear what you thought!

Thanks for another great review. I love hearing from you!

-SwimmingBee

Great chapter!!

Author's Response:

Thank you, fawnlike! It's great to see you back again. :)

The next chapter is up too. Hope you like it! It's not quite so angsty!

-SwimmingBee

I know it’s mean but I seriously LMAO when I read the part of Aaron not being particularly good at uhm… going down :) I really loved this chapter.  Reading it put me in the same lazy, comfy kind of mood that you set in the story.  Their day together was absolutely perfect.  He made her French Toast in bed! How awesome was that.  I completely agree with Gemma…it’s so much better than the chocolate soufflé.  I know that French Toast is the only thing he knows how to cook…but his sweetness and consideration for doing it, seriously moved him to the front of the line, in the battle for Gemma’s heart.  Sorry Dimples :( I really hope that you find your very own Gemma someday, even though this one is taken.

I enjoyed reading the way they skirted around the L word the entire chapter.  It’s obvious they recognize the love that they have for one another.  In other words, Robert knows that he is in love with Gemma and Gemma knows that she is in love with.  However, does Robert know that Gemma is aware of his feelings and vice versa? I hope that I didn’t confuse you in the same manner in which I am confusing myself at the moment.  I’ll blame it on the cold meds and just hope that I made some kind of sense.  When Robert said the line "Tom loved you too, Gem," As much as I wanted her to smile playfully and say “Too? Well, other than Thomas, who else could possibly love me?”, I don’t think I would have been able to do it either.  I’d be too afraid of him saying something like “A lot of people, Sarah and your parents but to name a few”  Gemma and I would have both died right on the spot.  So yes, she did the right thing by not saying anything, LOL.

Even though I was disappointed when he pulled back from her physically, I totally agree with why he did it.  I know he stated wanting to make sure that Daniel was out of the picture before they took their relationship to that next level, but I don’t think he will allow himself to take that next step without first admitting his love for and to her.  I might be wrong, but I can’t wait to find out.  I like the fact that Robert is being cautious in every aspect of their relationship.  It proves his absolute commitment to this relationship that they are developing.  His willingness to forgo immediate gratification in order to ensure that their relationship commence on the right foot is admirable.  I really like that about him.

With the title of the chapter being The L Word, I really feel the need to discuss that very subject.  It has been patently obvious to me, even from the very beginning, that Robert is head over heels in love with Gemma.  He adores her completely.  You wrote the story from her POV, but the genius of your words has left zero doubt in my mind of his absolute love for her.  I know that they haven’t been together for very long, but the way that he talks to her, the passion that he displays for her, introducing her to his best friend, inviting her into his home, constantly texts her, is absolutely lovely to her best friend, and yes, pushes her away for her own good, are all things that screams at his love and devotion for her.  I know that Robert believes himself to be unworthy of her and is petrified of hurting her, but feeling love that strongly is surely worth the risk.  As for Gemma, seeing as how the story is in her POV, we are privy to her thoughts and emotions.  I know that she has strong feelings for him, but I don’t believe that she and Robert are on an even scale in terms of their feelings for one another.  I seriously feel that her past heartbreak is causing her to hold back and protect her heart a bit, which is completely understandable.  I loved the way that she starting to put herself out their though.  It’s very brave and I really hope that Robert never gives her cause to regret doing so.  I don’t seriously think, that he will give her reason to regret taking a risk on him because, while  Gemma is falling in love with him…he has already fallen and moved onto the realm of adoration.  Again, my perception might be faulty, as I am basing my opinion solely on his outwards behavior and interactions with her.

Lastly, I’m very happy that they made a verbal commitment to their relationship and going to attempt to make things work.  I can’t wait to see how they juggle that in the midst of the public scrutiny that overshadows his personal life.  Other couples have managed to have a successful relationship within the public eye, I’m confident that Robert and Gemma can do the same.  I loved his brief conversation with Nick, LOL.  It was very telling of things to come.  The only thing I would have changed about the chapter would have been to have Gemma prepare diner, instead of going to the fast food place.  It would have been more intimate and a nice change from the usual for him.  It would have also showcase her desire to take care of him as well as him taking care of her.

Favorite Lines

"Oh God, I didn't even hear him. Was I snoring? Did I have my ass hanging out of the covers?"
"You'll just have to marry me instead then."

"Tom loved you too, Gem,"

"But I trust you, Rob. I believe you won't hurt me. Maybe that's enough."

"I would. If you asked me to, I would."

"I trust you, Rob,"

"After that, I think I'm going to be hard for days, Gem."

Till next time, Kari

Author's Response:

Kari! Wow! Longest, most detailed review ever!! You're amazing, seriously! I love that you have so much to say about the story. I'm always so excited to read your reviews, and you always say such lovely, thoughtful things. THANK YOU!!

I'm so pleased you liked this chapter. They really did have a happy, lazy day together. It was such a fun chapter to write. Yay for Rob's French toast! You're so right - he was very sweet, cooking his Dad's recipe for Gemma. You just know he would have been a bit nervous about it, which makes it even cuter. Definitely better than the chocolate souffle! I loved what you said about Daniel, about him finding his own Gemma one day. Sweet!

No, you didn't confuse me with your thoughts about the L word. I know what you mean about wondering whether Rob knows that Gemma knows he loves her, and vice versa. I found your comments about Rob having stronger feelings than Gemma really interesting. There have been times when I've been writing this story and thought that I'd love to write some of it from Rob's point of view. It would be so nice to know exactly what he's thinking at times! But then on the other hand, I always wanted it just from Gemma's point of view. It helps with the story-telling down the line and writing it from Rob's point of view would spoil other bits and pieces later. But really, he is pretty honest. He basically blurts out whatever's on his mind, whether it's a good thing (like how much he really, really likes her) or a bad thing (like how 'fucked up' he is). So I'm glad you feel like you know what he's thinking, even though it's not written from his POV. Whew, I hope that makes sense!

As for Gemma's feelings not being as strong as Rob's... I'm fascinated by that. It really made me think, actually! Rob is definitely smitten, we know that. As you said, he absolutely adores Gemma. He's still too terrified to actually say so though, because of his fear of fucking things up for her. Clearly he has his protective vibe going on and is still holding her at somewhat of a distance for her own sake, like refusing to sleep with her even though she begs him.

Gemma, on the other hand, is also pretty smitten! Perhaps it doesn't seem like they're on an even scale in terms of their feelings because of two things... Firstly, as you said, because she's still afraid of giving herself to him wholeheartedly, for fear of getting hurt again. Aaron hurt her deeply and Rob is her first serious relationship since him, so I guess it's understandable. But secondly, I also think she's still in slight disbelief that Robert Pattinson could actually be falling in love with her. It's only been just over a week, remember... and he's Robert Pattinson! I seriously think that would take a bit of getting used to. So maybe she's feeling it, but she's just not quite ready to admit it to herself yet.

On a lighter note, ha! You're the only one who's laughed about Aaron not being good down south. Love it! It's so much fun writing a mean character. Rob just couldn't quite believe it. Hehee. And I know what you mean about wanting Gemma to prepare dinner instead of having In'N'Out Burger... but she was hungover! Sometimes bad, greasy food is just required. But don't worry, there will be plenty of Gemma prepared meals in the future. :)

So many favorite lines again, I'm flattered! Seriously, thank you so much for taking the time to leave such wonderful, descriptive reviews. You're amazing!!

See you in the forums! (Wink, wink!) There's a teaser over there for the next chapter now. Hold onto your hat though, it's a bit of a bumpy one!

-SwimmingBee

 

 

What a sweet, romantic chapter. They're getting close to using the l word, I'm sure of it. I love that Rob hates Aaron so much! Another great chapter SB.

Author's Response:

Thanks so much, RobAussieFan!

They're definitely getting closer to using the L word, you're right! And hehee, Rob really does hate Aaron. He hates that he treated Gemma so badly.

Glad to hear you're still enjoying the story!

-SwimmingBee

Woah... intense! Have they really only known one another for a week?!?!? 

I'm really hoping this has a happy ending! Can't wait for more chapters! 

Author's Response:

Hi jordan,

Great to see you back again! Thanks so much for continuing to read and review!

Yep, they've really only known each other for a week! Well, just over a week now. They met on a Friday night, and the last chapter took place on the following Sunday. It's been a big week though, huh?!

Ooh yes, I've always promised a happy ending with this story. There's a few bumps along the way, but they're Gemma and Rob. They'll be okay! :)

The next chapter should be up soon!

-SwimmingBee

Whaaaat?!  He made her some French toast?!  I knew he was secretly an okay cook!  Maybe he just has staple recipes that he sticks to.  Hehe! 

"Did I have my ass hanging out of the covers?"  I did chuckle at that line!

And I loved their under the covers snuggles and chat.  Very sweet. 

Okay.  So I was really screaming at Rob (in my head) when he stopped the potential morning nookie!!  Nooooooo!  I kind of understand where he's coming from, and it is so incredibly sweet and gentlemanly, but I could totally see where Gem was with it too!  I enjoyed her internal thoughts about it though, the idea that maybe Rob was keeping her at a distance by not sleeping with her.  The conversation that followed was clearly a milestone for them both though.  I'm so glad Gem reassured him like that. 

Haha!  The Facebook line! Loved that! 

Such a sweet visual of Rob on the phone and Gem soothing him. 

Okay, that last part...."Can we go to bed?"  Yeeeeeees!  And Rob, talking about going south..."Please let me show you how good this can be."  And stand clear!!! Anyone got a defib?  Duders just died....Never mind Gem wondering whether she just did!  Hehe!  And the Edward Cullen line.  Loooooved that too!  Wonderful!  Still enjoying the slow burn.  A truly scrumptious story hon.  Mwah!

Duders x

Author's Response:

Hi Duders!

Aw, I know! He made her French Toast. It was his Dad's recipe, so does that count? Is it as good as pancakes in your kitchen from Jake though? Hehehee.

In an odd way, I'm glad you were screaming at Rob (in your head!) when he stopped them again. Because Gemma definitely was! She gets him, but she has to be feeling the frustration too, right? Gah! You're right - he is being sweet and gentlemanly, but maybe he really is keeping her at a distance deliberately. Oh dear! But yes, their follow-up conversation was a big one. No more Daniel! :)

Glad you liked the Facebook line! It was just Gemma being silly really. They have fun together! But yes, she definitely calms him down too, like when he was on the phone to Nick.

OMG, sorry for killing you. Ha, hilarious! Yay for the slow burn... you won't have to wait too much longer, I promise!

Thanks for all your kind words and support, Duders! x

-SwimmingBee

OH MY ROB! That was amazing!Thank you, thank you thank you! kisses & hugs 

Author's Response:

Ha, pearlgem!

Oh my Rob indeed! Hehee. Glad you liked the chapter. Lots more coming up soon!

Thanks for your review!

-SwimmingBee

Thanks Bee! Needed the big O, and it was a good one. Rob going down....unf! Ugh! In my dreams, yes, in my dreams. Soooo good! Well I hope some fucking is cuming up next......just sayin!

Author's Response:

Hey roxie,

Hehee, glad you enjoyed the chapter! Gemma certainly did, didn't she!?

Oooh, they're getting close. You won't have to wait much longer!

Thanks so much!

-SwimmingBee