I had to go back and read this chapter again. It’s so beautiful and bittersweet.

I’m coming back to review to tell you that this really was a good, well-rounded story. I enjoyed it a lot and love how unique it is. Just as I’d be wondering about something or thinking of how you were gonna work any certain thing out, you usually came up with a solution that was interesting to read. You did very well here and I know it’s a couple years old, but from your A/N’s it seemed like you were struggling with issues of confidence. I just want to say I hope you realize what a good storyteller you really are.

Oh! But one thing! The nipple ring? Lol

I love his proposal surprise and the engagement party. I love that Andrea and Audrey are in the picture. And I’m so very glad to have found this story on this site, I was all the way up to chapter 36 already and couldn’t wait to read the rest. Thanks a bunch for this.

Sometimes that mutual biting of the tongues is the best we can hope for when getting along with certain family. It’s something Ive experienced myself, so this scene at the parent’s house was accurate.

It was so sweet of them to stop by her mom’s grave, and I’m glad Merle hadn’t chickened out with his daughter. Hershel’s letter to Daryl was a very pleasant surprise, too.

Go Daryl! I’m glad he stayed. She needs him there.

The first part of this chapter is exactly what I meant when I said it was coming full circle, so excellent talk between Daryl & Rick.

I also am glad he’s gonna stay. Unfortunately Carol doesn’t have anyone at her childhood home that’s 100% in her corner.

And LOL I’m hoping the nipple ring comes out, too.

This really was a necessary chapter and you did it well. Sadly, it’s very common that it’s a variation of so many true stories of step parents resenting helpless children instead of embracing them.

Also, there are so many things that are coming full circle in this story, and you’ve also done a wonderful job with that.

It’s like they’re getting closer all the time, and that’s wonderful.

One thing though: I’ve noticed Daryl keeps referring to his past mistakes with women, calling them “random bitches.” I’m asking you to please reconsider that as you post this story on other sites. I think “random chicks” or even “random women” would be much better, because the other is more of a dickhead thing to say, and Daryl is above that. Thanks.

Yes, the reconciliation really was satisfying and I’m very glad Rick came to her defense. I also really like how he witnessed Daryl being so tender with her, and admitting his own mistakes. Great chapter!

I am surprised that their dad didn’t offense to the way Rick’s mom said she was “screwing” Daryl. That’s just crude and it’s awful for a step-mother to say. And the way she acted at the dinner table makes me want to slap her. I hope Richard continues his willingness to get to know Daryl and I’m finally glad that Rick spoke up in their defense!

I love the Merle in this and the Caryl closeness. But then “hoodlum.” Ugh.

Please tell me that this means Carol and Merle have come to an understanding, and that Merle will stop trying to sabotage their relationship.

Also, I’m glad Merle has a child with Andrea! Good plot twist!

Sloppy drunk Daryl who lets Merle get inside his head to spread the venom and plant those seeds of doubt. Ugh.

SHUT. UP. MERLE.

I love how Daryl straight up told Merle exactly what he would and would not be doing for his birthday. It means a lot for a girl to hear it. And I still can’t get over how selfish Rick is being. That’s all it is, really. Making it all about him, especially after Daryl actually tried telling him and got laughed at.

Your Daryl/Hershel relationship is probably the best I’ve ever read between those two characters, and it makes me want more.