So many nice subtleties! Beginning with Angel's stories; I have found much healing in the better writing here in the Big Closet. Right now, my tears are warm comfortable tears. I am so glad this tale covers the whole lives of the characters. The reality in this story I can partially reflect in a couple of experiences:

Last night I kept jerking awake whenever nearly falling asleep. Fear coming from past abuse. It is so real yet hard for others to understand. In the past, I have wakened myself screaming or by total body clenching so tight I was in pain. Last November, the voice of a man singing karaoke triggered something that caused me to dash out of the club, up the hill and into the safety of a lounge near a friend - in sheer panic. The past can hurt and run my life in ways - even when I have no idea what happened or I am afraid of.

Not only can I identify with Renee; but I can wish I had someone as close to me as Dan. The best healing can come from an understanding and SAFE person. Dan also clearly has that feminine nurturing sensitivity and is immediately trusted. I expect that is the intention and I believe craftily and subtly presented. Unbelievable to some, I recognize it in my own life and hope others can realize that there are Renees around them.

Perhaps it is useful to mention a week I spent at a retreat/workshop for eight of us abused in childhood. As a man (on the outside); the only man present, I was told the first night, "You are the safest person I know." This from a girl raped all through her childhood and totally afraid of men. I say this to give extra credibility to the character Dan.

Thanks for the sensitive realism that I hope others can accept as valid and real!