disclaimer: see chapter one

author's note: Finally something from Faith's perspective. And this was a fun one to write.

drabble three summary: Fear and vulnerability are not emotions Faith allows herself to feel. Not anymore. Not ever. But when Dawn touches her -- delicately, lovingly -- she feels them in spades.

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The Law of Effect: A phenomenon seen in Pavlovian conditioning, suggesting that an animal's behaviour is governed by its consequences. If the consequences are positive (e.g., physical pleasure, a tangible reward, words of praise), that behaviour tends to be repeated; if the consequences are negative (e.g., physical discomfort, harsh reprimand, painful emotions), the behaviour tends not to be.

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the law of effect

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She learns early on that people are fallible and dangerous creatures...not to be trusted. They hurt her: they take her in, twist her beyond recognition, and spit her back out again. Or worse, they abandon her; pass over her entirely. It doesn't take long for Faith to realise the best course of action is to stay detached. Leave them before they can leave her. That way, she's always in control.

But then Dawn looks at her, eyes so earnest and voice so loving. And Dawn touches her, fingers so graceful and hands so hot. And Dawn hears her, ear pressed to her chest and lips grazing her collarbone.

Faith is not in control, then.

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