I don't know how I could have missed this story, and although I hate to think Lee and Amanda had to go through all that just to get to their happy everafter I enjoyed the ride. The characterzation was excellent, the dialogie believable and the story wonderfully and beautifully written.

Absolutely believable possibility for th echaracters as I knew and loved them. Thank you.

Oh my gosh! This is a wonderful story! Enjoy your writing very much. Thanks for sharing. Linda

I just finished this and I had to, just had to comment. But, I had to wipe the tears from my eyes first so that I could see the keyboard. What a fabulous story! You take us through every emotion that goes into a failed relationship (Been there, trust me, I know) and made it real.

And then, you take us on the journey that brings true lovers right back to where they should have been. I was not offended, I loved it & would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to read good fiction, no matter whether they're familiar with sMK or not.

Thanks again for a good read that kept me riveted!

I shudder to think who would find this story offensive - it's a painfully accurate portrayal of a marriage strained past the breaking point. Sometimes love isn't enough, and I can easily see the stresses created by the mystery marriage and Lee's rabid overprotectiveness creating a situation in which both reluctantly felt a divorce was the best thing. I also agree with those who would love this as a concept for a reunion movie. To me, any interesting reunion has to open with them separated so that we can root for them to get back together, but the tricky part is coming up with a plausible reason for their separation. This is one of only two stories that I feel have accomplished that. Thank you for sharing this.

Wow! This was a stunner! Definitely one of the very best fanfics I've ever read. Your characterizations are so accurate, I could visualize every scene between the two. The sense of loss and longing came through with such poignancy. You did a wonderful job of weaving the past events through to the present. And the touches of humor from the secondary characters were a great balance. I really loved this story. Thank you.

it was too long damn it! i feel asleep!, but it was still good... ::winkwink:: ok, ok,... it was great! it brought tears to my eyes, lol.

I've reviewed this story to you privately before, but I came back to it today and used it gauge my own success on a SMK fanfic I'm writing, so I thought I'd post a public review.

I honestly believe this is the best fanfic I've read to date. Everything rings so true - present story line and flashbacks. I'm sure I will use this story as a touchstone for my own writing for a long time to come.

LOVE THIS STORY !

That was a wonderful work. Had me on the edge of my seat playing with all of my emotions and in the end it was all worth it. :) Thanks for sharing.

Shelly, what an excellent job. The tremendous amount of effort you put into this story is obvious. Although it's hard to see L & A apart, your justification for separating them was completely plausible. Just like them, to trip over themselves, and each other, to the point of no return. Thank goodness they made it back from that point. The entire thing was a wonderful read, and the ending was beautiful.

Shelly, as you know, I refuse to believe that this is the way it really happened. However, you've definitely made me think that it *could* have happened this way. That's the mark of a truly great story.

I'm so glad the idea "wouldn't leave you alone." Excellently done. . .characterization, dialogue, situation. Great mix of angst and lighter moments (with their respective friends and/or secretary). It's a KEEPER!

What a terrific story! It was like a book that I just couldn't put down. I read it all in one sitting last night. I could feel the pain and regret, anxious anticipation and hope. You portrayed all of these emotions. And you supplied more than adequate reasons for both the sad times of separation and the real possibility of a happy ending for both Lee and Amanda, together. Wonderful job! -mh2-

Wow, this was so good. Words fail me. I can see this happening and wouldn't this make a good reunion movie? Hey, Bruce, it meets your criteria that ya'll be divorced and yet gives us all the happy ending we crave.

Wow! What a great story. You can practically feel the depth of their pain, sorrow, and angst. Yes, in my mind I think they lived happily ever after (as soon as the stupid mystery marriage was revealed), but I see your point, and realize they couldn't go on like they were (married but hiding it)indefinitely. Wonderfully written, great characterizations, and a true joy to read. Thank you for sharing!