the first-person thing by it's very nature makes your reader sympathize with everyone

Yes, exactly. I really wanted people to sympathise with all of them. There are no bad guys here, it's no one's fault. Impossible situation, hence huge angst. And yes, also, to Ray/Ray being a mature choice for Kowalski. Letting go of the past and the Big Dream and standing by what he has, what he and Vecchio have built together.

Thank you so very much. *beam*