A whole new life of being self-sufficient and loved. Spike is very lucky to have survived his refusal to accept his disability and carry on with his life. Riley being useful again and earning his keep is fantastic, a really good opportunity for him. Buffy is Spike's goal for self betterment and has proven herself worthy of his trust and love.

Author's Response: Buffy is certainly the catalyst for Spike wanting to live life as fully as possible. Sandar had been a good thing for both men. More tomorrow.

I like the way everything turned out. I think Riley staying on at Sandar was a great idea. Also, I am glad that Spike is handling things so well. Can't wait to read the next update. HAVE A GREAT VACATION!!!!

Author's Response: I had a wonderful time thank you! Riley and Spike have both progressed for being at Sandar. More tomorrow.

Not a good way to wake up for Spike but it got better. ;)

It sucks that reading Braille and playing guitar don't get along (but it makes sense way not.
I'm glad to see that Riley found a place where he can be useful and that he likes.
Enjoy your holiday, looking forward to more when you're back.

Author's Response: Poor Spike! She soon made up for it though. I hope to do some writing during the flights :D

AHhh how sweet I am so glad dinner turned out so well. I am curious as to what future events will happen with Riley.

Author's Response: Glad that I've got you curious - more about Riley in the next chapter. :D

Oh, this is such a heartwarming story. I am so glad that Spike realized his love for Buffy. Now if they can only admit their feelings openly for eachother. Maybe Spike will grow more confident and will not be as self conscious especially realizing the life Riley is leading and with no one to share it with as of yet right? Everything is falling into place. I absolutely love your story. You have a wonderful way with words. Much love to you.

Author's Response: Thank you very much for your lovely comments. Delighted that you're enjoying it so much.

Really romantic dinner and dessert was the event after. Glad that Spike is coming to terms that he can be more self sufficient.

Author's Response: Thank you very much. Spike is beginning to believe in himself again.

enjoyed their evening as much as they did. Looking forward for more

Author's Response: Thank you very much. :D

great chapter, cleverly written.
loved it..wonder what's going to happen to Riley, something nice I hope (and its not often i say that :))

Author's Response: Thank you very much. I really appreciate your kind comments.

Baby steps for Spike to manuever in his new situation and experiences. Riley really did pay a high price to preserve freedom, too bad he is still paying it at the home front. Love Buffy for being able to ease the tension with Riley and inform Spike just how much harder Riley has it with his disability. Spike is being motivated to expand his horizons and I hope his evening with Buffy goes well. Look forward to more.

Author's Response: Riley was badly injured indeed. Buffy was anxious not to add to his stresses. Spike is being pushed to rejoin the human race.

I worked in a rehab unit as a nurse for 2 yers. The hardest job i ever had, as I had to learn NOT to do things for my patient..I remember having to watch people take hours to dress themselves or eat a meal. The best rehab workers do the least work, its often easier to actuall do it yourself, ask any mum, but to sit back and let someone struggle is tough. It takes 4 hours to do something one day, then 3 3/4 hours...
I love the way you show that aspect of the care....

Author's Response: Thank you for letting me know you think I'm portraying the care okay. What you said is very true. It is the only way for people to learn and develop.

Yay for another update. :)
(Makes sense what you said about testing the abilities regarding the food on the plate.)

And oh so clever of Fred to arrange a date for Spike; She knew how much Spike would do for her.
Touch situation for Riley, not wonder he's totally blind. Ted? His old charming self. :(
Loved how Buffy tried to include Riley.

Author's Response: Fred was very cunning in knowing how to make sure Spike would do as she wanted. :D

So very genuine the reaction Spike had to his first dinner. Even better though is his reaction to Buffy. Good luck keeping her behaving. Do hope he and Riley actually help each other through this. Update soon.

Author's Response: Thank you very much for saying Spike's behaviour seemed genuine. Really appreciate it.

The school for the blind really doesn't show them much other than to figure things out for themselves, the dinner was difficult enough without the peanut gallery chimming in. Riley really lost more than just his sight in his life, at least Spike has Buffy. Look forward to more.

Author's Response: These first few days the facility are observng their patients to learn just where their problems lay. doubt they'd expect Spike still to be as worried about eating sloppily so long after the accident. But they know his fears now and will help him to face them. The fact he has Buffy is what gives him the strength to try to be more independent.