::waves hello::

I had read this in the past, lost it, and then found it again thanks to the good readers of bloodclaim. So why do i like this story? I love visions of Xander as a successful & independent man after the demise of Sunnydale. I want him to break free of the girls b/c there is a point when you have to be selfish. I also love that he has continued to follow a passion - restoration. The visuals of his home -- the place & the building, i covet both -- are clear, warm & inviting. I can see Xander in this place, curled up in front of the fire with Spike.

Its also true to the character. In that once free from the "saving the world" Xander would indeed so no to Spike because though he may love him completely, Xander knows he cannot go back to that roll.

I love that the others are so accepting, and so genuinely happy at Xander's success. While i enjoy buffy or willow bashing now & then, I also like the reminder that they canon-wise they were also friends - family.

So, yeah, the story is smooshy & perhaps sappy at times -- its a warm, fuzzy story about love, and growing-up, a little angst, and figuring out how to go on, and finding that which you thought was lost. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that type of story, because it fills that need for companionship and a happy ending.

I'm glad you wrote and shared this story.