I love this one a lot. I also think that although Kenshin is the leading character, Kaoru is the real one who joins all of them up. She's the invisible thread that stick them together. When she was gone, the only one who tried was Yahiko (even with his "it's not zero"). And he stood for everyone till Kenshin's come back. Even broken-heartened

Beautiful piece, as usual. I really enjoyed how Kenshin was thinking of the 'what if', then reminding himself its only about the present and future now. Also, his thoughts on Kaoru were spot on! Beautiful!

Short and sweet.

here I am, eating away at your words written here. :)

this was so cute and warm and sweet.

I loved it.

I think you caught Kenshin's thoughts very well. Kaoru really is the thread that bound them all together. In many ways, she's such a Mary Sue, but at the same time, I don't mind it because she's just so perfect for Kenshin's soul.

What a wonderful way to start my day.

Thanks for writing,

-P.P.V.V.

i like it, reflective fics are usually my faves.

I like how Kenshin acknowledges Kaoru's contribution to the redemption of all the kenshingumi members. She truly is the heart of the dojo.

Your my favorite RK writer and honestly, this story is excellent, though on short side. Keep up the good work!

I like this, I think because of the subtext that suggests hardships are simply a way of making homely, everyday experiences richer (although the opportunity to recognize that can be rather delayed). To experience cold, loneliness, and hunger makes warmth, company, and hot soup into great rewards! Recognizing the gifts that come from hardship is so typical of Kenshin, and a graceful way to characterize him.

Yea! This fic is so precious! . On a serious note, you're absolutely right on how Kaoru was the thread that kept the group together. I never thought of that.

the contrasts are great. thinking back on my own life i could have died a number of times as i changed roles and lifestyles although nothing with similar noble intentions or righteous purpose, compared with the life i lead now. i find i can relate somewhat to your depiction.

intelligent, touching and profound.

as always a delight,

ginny

This was a nice little look into Kenshin's life after the manga. Even though he's gone through terrible hardships, it only lets him better appreciate what he has now. This was just very cute and cozy! I'm so glad Kenshin got his happily ever after.

awesome fanfic. it's an interesting question why did Kenshin accept the Dojo out of all the other places.

Thank you for writing! This is a very nice story. I know that sounds lame, but it is. Reflection is always a wonderful way to remind readers of what might have happened and what did before the written story happened.

Absolutely beautiful! I'm really glad that Kenshin found a home too! Heh, I certainly wouldn't want one of my favorite characters of all time to be dead because of a winter storm! ;;