Wow, Meres, when I read your feedback I was floored, and I really wish I could have responded right away. That comparison to Exposures is extremely flattering (and, my Canadian humility begs me to mention, unfair to poor Dira. I'm sure she made you cry much, much more :-)

I really don't think there's anything more heartbreaking than squandered potential, and yep, that was a huuuuuge source of angst in the story for poor Fraser. He just couldn't find the words. I'm so glad you...liked it? Or were moved by it, at least. Thank you for such kind and flattering feedback!