Long Way From Home, Chapter Thirty Three

[fleetingfancy]

Title: Long Way From Home
Author: me, un-beta'd
Warnings: Language, Violence
Summary: Ryan's dad shows up unexpectedly and throws the Cohens +1 into turmoil
Cross posted: fanfiction.net

Comments

[beachtree]

I know it's frustrating when LJ just randomly- and stubbornly- decides to snack. That seems to happen to me far too often. I was beginning to take it personally. Welcome to the club! I almost always save to notepad in my paranoia now. Last night? Not possible. Since my 'puter had gone into a spiral and then died- DNR (mother board and all)- I was using a friend's unfamiliar iBook. The keyboard was unfamiliar and notebook? Um... And it's impossible to remember a comment, and then you expect it to be eaten again.

However, no pressure for you. Look how long it took me! (Blame the 'puter! It won't know now!) But you did write a very thorough and compelling chapter and I know you didn't revisit the previous ones (I swear I did, though since that was easier!), but the continuity was all there for Dr. Morgan and Caleb to cite and draw upon in their own ways.

Btw, since I was having typing issues, I did want to also remark on how well you depicted Ryan's character through his mannerisms, Dr.Morgan's impressions and reflections, and Ryan's demeanor and introspection. Nice touch to have him wrapping himself in his familiar "cloak of comfort"- the hoodie. That was a shield of sorts, also something soothing, and a way to conceal his anxiety as well as the shell. It was a layer with multiple purposes and a refuge within his control. Then there were his tactile distractions and his unique tells as well as a way to ground himself. Some, like picking at a frayed him, folding his arms, rubbing his jeans, avoiding eye contact and redirecting questions and subjects are visible and more obvious. Others, such as maintaining contact with the secreted shell, or his inner contemplations, are private. While some are avoidance tactics and diversions, others are grasps at self-preservation or order amidst chaos. Very realistic!

I'm really sorry about the allergic reaction. I hope you can isolate the cause and find the right remedy. A couple of years ago, I broke my right wrist and hand rather badly, and for the second time. I had to have surgery and was in a series of casts for about 4 months. Typing was... interesting, but I got used to it. Still, two hands are waaaaay better! Maybe a dermatologist is in your future?

Good luck, be healthy, and I hope you are able to 'get to it soon' too. You know we love your stories and miss you!

My early and brief break is over. Back to it!

Thanks again!