So, I should have left a review before now, especially since you've been asking so kindly. What I want to say is: Thank You. Thank you for sharing such a deep and painful part of yourself, for being open and honest in your feelings and giving hope to others as well as hopefully healing that much more yourself. I can't remember which middle eastern culture it's from but my sister once told me of that there was once a group where the women hardly every expressed their feelings openly one with another let alone with men. When they had to release that part of themselves, when they had to trust others with their sharing they would use singing to convey their emotions. So thank you for trusting us with a part of yourself, to show that evil is still out there, that people are human and frail, but also can give strength to one another just like your Spike did to you.
Once I thought that what someone hurt -- even in accident -- could not be healed by that individual but only by God. However I've come to see the divine as well as the devil in others and in myself, and that is what makes us part of something so much greater than mortal.
Thanks again, I hope what I wrote is understandable.

Another great chapter. You really show the affect and the amount of people rape affects. On to the next chapter :D

Author's Response: Like a pebble in a pond, the effects are far reaching. Thank you for sticking with this.

I can't lie and say that this is a lovely story, because it is very obviously not. It's so full of raw emotion and brutality, and yet the careful relationship between Spike/Will and Buffy is incredibly tragic in its fragility and the events that brought them together.

But.

The scene with little Connor playing outside was beautiful in its simplicity, and Spike's reaction to Buffy's pregnancy was the perfect balance of fear, awe, and hope. (Can you tell I've been saving this up?)

I understand that a happy ending is not assured for this story, or at least the Disney happily ever after. However, seeing the healing that those two have done in the two years since they met is the best and most perfect outcome thus far, and I can only hope that whatever trials that they are going to have to face in the coming chapters will be weathered together and not leave them separately broken.



Author's Response: I know what you mean -- it's not a lovely story, and thank you for not lying. I've tried to balance out the horror of their pasts with some of the steps toward healing and happiness they are both taking. There has to be some rainbow in all the clouds, some ray of hope shining through, otherwise it wouldn't be worth trying. Thank you.

I'm always thrilled when I see this story has been updated, I love it so much. I can't say it enough, this story is simply amazing. Only problem is, when I finished reading a chapter, I always want more right away. :)

Author's Response: I wish it were easier to write this, I really do. But I'm sure you understand how hard it is to sometimes get through these emotions and put it all down. . . and then have the courage to post them. Thank you for your support and encouragement. They both mean a lot.

wow, powerful chapter. hope you finish this because its good

Author's Response: Thank you. I'm doing my best to finish it, but it tends to be a bit hard to write.

This is such a heartwrenching story and so beautifully told. I can already tell this is going to be a great love story.

Author's Response: Thank you. I always think of Spike and Buffy in terms of sweeping epics. . .

Very moving! Can't wait to read more!

Author's Response: Thank you.

I was having a really, really horrible day and I logged on to hopefully find a little bit of escape. And I found an update to my favorite story. Thank you. Beautiful, as always!

Author's Response: I'm glad I could make you smile. Thanks for returning the favor.