my heart just broke a little

This is gorgeous and melancholy and funny an lovely. I love the perspective of it, that even when the Doctor can see both of them with his own eyes, he can't forget that somewhere they are both dead. It's so sad. This is a very well-written piece, everyone is perfectly in character. Good job. :)

I'm tearing up. Well done. :)

See. this was just lovely to wake up to. Love the idea of River and the Brigadier meeting and they both mean so much to the Doctor and I can imagine the "Let's introduce them" idea popping into his head.

And this is so much about the loneliness of perspective and the hating of endings and the living for the moment even if the moment is of his own making. Sigh.

Love that Alistair knows who he is and just takes everything in his stride as per usual. Has been around the Doctor in his various incarnations enough to know that he should just enjoy the ride. And giggling for the "We're not about to be attacked, are we?" - experience teaches the Brigadier well.

Also love the fact that he calls RIver his wife. Sounds nice. To the reader and to River and to him.

More giggling for the "Jammy dodgers". Of course the universe revolves around him. :)

Smiling for the photo. Oh, that's important and glad that Alistair thinks of it.

And such a happy/sad/wonderful story. The ending:

"River holds his hands, and Alistair smiles fondly at him, and the stars are bright and glorious.

They are both dead, he knows that. But he can pretend for a little while longer."

Just perfect. And makes me sigh with talentenvy. Giggling. Was going to suggest you take a bath more often but that would just sound wrong. ;D

Awesome fic, it was very enjoyable to read!
Thank you!