Wow, this story is really really good! You're writing is amazing!! I love how Ryan isn't perfect, and neither is Andrea, it makes it so much more realistic!
I had to read through my previous comments to see where I stood on this story. I remember being against Andrea, but I was surprised to find I actually liked her in the second chapter, so we'll see how things go. I like this. It was really good, I was surprised because I wasn't sure how I was going to like Andrea. I don't know if you're toned her down, but whatever it is, she doesn't seem as bratty and she seems more realistic now. I have seven nieces, aged ten, almost eight, almost five, almost two, one and a half, six months and then a new born. I also have four nephews, aged eleven, seven, three, one and then one due in May. So, my whole point is, I think you're getting the age rather correctly. Is Ryan not a strong discipliner though? Or is Andrea just strong willed? I'm trying to figure out if Ryan's inaction previous to when this story takes place has caused Andrea to be as she is, or if it's just her personality. Anyways, kudos to you.
My favorite lines:
which happened to open at exactly the wrong time, hitting Pete Wentz squarely in the chest.
People don’t understand you a lot when you’re three.
too focused on seeing what kind of panties she wears under her skirt.
"Dates were dinner and a movie. Kid-friendly restaurant and kid-friendly movie. Chocolate and flowers. Good night kiss. The type of date a woman hopes for and never gets because the man is too focused on seeing what kind of panties she wears under her skirt. Ryan and Andrea’s dates were generally on holidays. They were the only family they had."
You made me jealous. :grr: And I just heard this on the TV. "The best thing about you is your hugs, Daddy. It doesn't matter how long you've been away for, I will always love you." It was some old guy reading out a letter from his daughter. Dunno, it seemed appropriate.
That paragraph was my favourite because it was so sweet, and so... realistic. It was a small thing, not major, but it just added a real sense of authenticity to their relationship, made the characters seem like normal people instead of words on a page. Which I know they are, but in your writing they don't seem like it.
"“She’s got ADD.” Ryan said, amused. “She’s three.” Spencer and Jon said at the same time. “Same thing.”"
I like that bit too, because it's funny, but not too funny. It's not being shoved in my face, but I can laugh at it. And that's a good thing; I've read plenty of stories where the author is trying so hard to be funny that they're not. This is comedic, but it has its serious points too. The serious points give it plot, the amusing bits make it entertaining and keep my interest.
"“I’m—“ “—sorry? Again?” It was bitterness in Brendon’s voice, and a bit of hurt. Ryan didn’t say anything for a moment. He sat down next to Brendon on the bed. “I’m being a dick.”"
Pragmatism. Ryan's blatant honesty earned him a good deal of respect from me. I am not a Panic fan, I claim to dislike them, yet I still read your stories. Shows how good a writer you are/how much I love your words..
Your 8-month update interval didn't affect your writing, trust me. But if you make me wait another eight months, I'll cry. Actually, I won't, but you should feel guilty because I said I would.