At the risk of being overbearing, I would like to make one more comment. Feel free to tell I'm out of line. I completely agree with you that life isn't simple or quick and I love stories that reflect that. Angst and turmoil is why we still read these stories and others. Half of my saved stories make me cry, I'm a sucker for romances with obstacles the size of the Alps.
But I do think you have changed Brian and Justin in a fundamental way that has caused confusion. It's as if you flipped them completely. Brian is engaged with his friends and showing emotion. He was terrified for Em and the friends are rallying with him. Justin is closed off and doing what everyone expects him to do. He's in a relationship because it seems to be what's expected of him. He's not happy, but is afraid to rock the boat and risk his heart.
Author's Response: Oh, I don't disagree that there have been some changes, although I don't see them as fundamental. I mean, think back to moments within the series, where there were threats against the members of the group. Brian always reacted to protect those he cared about, although he was the first to deny his motives. In this case, for example, he will be quick to point out that he's just protecting his interest in the business of Babylon. The difference, I hope, is that some of the friends may begin, finally, to understand the man behind the image - which he will not initially like because it's what he's fought against for so long. And some of those friends, I promise you, will prove to be just as shitty and just as judgemental as they've always been. And Justin was always vulnerable to being manipulated, mostly because of his youth. At this point in the story, they are both adapting to changes in their lives which neither of them really wanted. Brian has always sacrificed himself for those he loves, no matter what he claims, and Justin has always been quick to doubt that he could be what Brian ultimately needed. They have both been pushed and shoved and maneuvered into taking steps that neither really wanted to take.
There will be plenty of obstacles to maneuver around in finding their way back. That's the fun of it, for me. But I fully understand that my vision may not reflect everyone else's, and I do not blame anyone for seeing things differently and choosing not to read along.
In point of fact, part of the reason I felt compelled to write this story was to go back and explore some areas that I always felt needed more illumination. Part of this narrative will deal with some of those things, from a perpective that I don't think has been utilized before.
And again, thanks for being interested enough to speak up.
CYN
