That's so sad *big sigh* Yeah, I forgot that Spike forgets but Buffy remembers their nights. So he wouldn't recognize her. And that makes it even more sad.
Doyle did know about the Garden? But how much did he knew about Buffy/Spike? For me it would have been too much to be second best after knowing all the stuff about the other too. So I think he didn't know it all (even if Buffy just went to ask Spike for his opinion because it is important to her etc.). But Doyle didn't dream of the Garden too or had a secret lover/friend? For Buffy the dream (their nights, Buffy working at the Garden, meeting Spike) is real. So it's more then just a 'normal' dream for her.
(I still think that it is cheating both to Spike and Doyle, marrying Doyle without loving him like Spike. *shrugs shoulders again - my opinion*) ~
Such a thoughtful gift Dawn gave to Buffy, including meeting Spike. But he doesn't remember. Another lost opportunity in a way. *sniff*
I wonder if Buffy will talk to him (Spike) when they meet again the next night about seeing him in real life. And I so look forward to his reaction to that because I'm very curious (how he will feel about meeting Buffy and not remembering her).
I've read the response to one of the reviews. I guess that means I have to have tissues ready for the next chapter because it will be sad? Could be that Buffy will dying, ending her life circle on earth and starting a new one with Spike? (Though that would mean for him to die too, right. Didn't think of that.)
All in all this story is very bittersweet with a lot of sadness if I think of it. (That doesn't mean I didn't enjoy reading so far. I did or I would have stopped reading it.)
To your summary: An abused child? That sounds as if Buffy is very young in this story. Even if Buffy was young when visiting the Garden first (?) she isn't in the story. In a way visiting the Garden was only the begin. (But 'hides in her mind' sound as if the Garden isn't real but as far as I understand for the sake of the story it is real. Am I wrong?)
Till next part. I'm still reading. :)

Author's Response: thankyou for your wonderful review..yes I know I suck at summaries. If you can think of a better one, please do:) and I'll put it up. Yes Buffy was a child when she first went to the garden but she has aged. no dying, well not for years. enjoy the update.

hey you mademe cry, i totally love it, youre a great writer its a beutiful and sad story.

Author's Response: many many thanks. I hope you enjoy the rest