Reflections on α ρяσмιѕє fυℓfιℓℓє∂

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"When it gets down to it, no project is a one-man venture. There are always people who support oneself along the way in one respect or another. I have a few people I need to thank for directly or indirectly influencing this story. "

― Yukigo Inuoe (Yours truly).

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It all began on a whim. June, 2012, a bored high school student who was scrolling through the long list of slash on Wattpad when he came across one that piqued his curiousity - His New Toy. With nothing better to do, he decided to give the book a read. And WHAM! KA BOOM! BA BUM! came the torrent of inspiration that struck him, hard.

It has been one long, wild ride, I would have to say. From the beginning I wanted to put my own spin of a LGBT Romance. I came out with a few scenes and had some put down on papers, but going to the extent by which I did when I began writing this was unprecedented for me.

Why did I write this? I'm not entirely sure myself. One big thing that drove me to write this in the first place was the challenge presented in writing a LGBT-themed story. And then, as I have mentioned, I came across [Insert Name Here]'s story which prompted me to put my inspiration and ideas on paper, or rather, screen.

My motivation really sprang from a variety of sources, among the ones I can't yet name. I think part of my plan was to capture some of the great emotional moments that most romance stories, gay or straight, seemed to lack. I honestly cried when I was writing the last scene where Timmy came home to Jenna, with the song Fall Asleep by Jars Of Clay playing, because that scene and the final meeting was so emotional for me.

When I look back at this novel, one thing that strikes me the most is this simple fact: never, ever, even once, did I stop writing. I never gave up. I did, however, consider giving up, yes, but still, I preservered. From the first word to the very, very last, I wanted to do this thing, to finish it. I walked in with a dedicated heart, and I walked out feeling an unbelievable sense of accomplishment. At 11:00 AM on November 1st, when I typed in "The End", an incredible rush came over me at my accomplishment. I stood up, I raised my hands, and I laughed and then sobbed with grief, because I have finished months of joyous writing. Through thick and thin, through computer problems and internet providers, through different dramas, heartbreaks, studies, and career choices, this has been here. With me.

To me, α ρяσмιѕє fυℓfιℓℓє∂ is more than just a story. It is a goal, an accomplishment, a calling and a purpose, and, strangely enough, a friend, if you will. I came to know the story of α ρяσмιѕє fυℓfιℓℓє∂ intimately with each new chapter, and I bound myself tightly to the characters of Timmy, Dex, Haley, Jenna, Hope, Jon and Davies, and even feel some influence from them in my own life. α ρяσмιѕє fυℓfιℓℓє∂ is a part of my life, and I poured my heart and soul into it. A gift for my lovely friends and fans. A gift to all those who had stuck with me through my writing, who supported me through thick and thin, who gave all the love and encouragements to write on.

Everyone who had helped me along my path deserves incredible thanks. Without the reviews, this story never would have advanced to be what it is now. Without people letting me know that I was doing a good job, I would never have completed this. I speak from the heart when I say that hearing good comments on my work makes me feel good. All authors write for good reviews, whether they admit it or not. I am no exception, and I thrive off my reviews, rushing to my mailbox in the hours after I posted my last chapter to see who had reviewed and said what about what.

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[Insert Name Here] @biscuitmonster: There has to be at least a few authors who inspired me to write, and [Insert Name Here] is the best of them. Her incredible descriptions and top-notch lovey-dovey scenes have directly and overwhelmingly influenced my writing, as well as Max, a character so morally strong, honest, and good that I literally use him as my moral compass. Timmy was heavily based off him in many respects, and I must say again, all of my writing has been directly influence by [Insert Name Here]'s novels. Simply outstanding.

[Insert Name Here], A Promise Fulfilled is as much your novelization as it is mine. I thank you from my heart.

Natalie @zmeya47: In the more recent months Natalie has become a great friend of mine. Aside from being a constant reviewer, she's given me great advice on my novel and offered a great deal of support throughout the writing process. If there was any single reviewer who helped me the most on the road to finishing this, its you, Natalie. Gracias, mi amigo!

Amy @ThatAmyGal: One of my closest friends, a fellow writer, and a major influence on my writing as long as I've known her. A bit crazy, but definitely a true friend and an honest girl if I can name one. She earns a mention here, both because of her friendship and the strength she has given me in following her example. And *whispers* Amy's a goddess, its just no one else has realized it yet.

John @sivilsj: John has played a major role influencing me as well. As an author, his descriptions and emotional scenes are evocative and gripping, and his assistance in pointing out the mistakes and error in my writing, made my ability to describe and write emotional scenes grow and expand. He truly stands at the top of A Promise Fulfilled, and I have to thank him for all he's done and how it inspired me.

Bolivian Flame Geckos: Because for some reason I felt like writing "Bolivian Flame Geckos" here.

Kippers @Kip412: Kippers. One of the gods of writing, a seventeen-year-old Carolina guy who has also massively influenced me in my ability to write emotional sequences and make my writing just plain fun. An incredible author who can craft a story like no other. I cannot recommend him enough. He is simply that good. And cute. *winks winks*

Natalie @daftduck: If there is one, singular person responsible for helping A Promise Fulfilled reach its end, it would have to be you. Natalie served as my editor throughout the long ride of Promise, and was directly and indirectly responsible for some amazing scenes in the storyline. Chapter 6 would not have been half as amazing if it had not been for her contributions. She was always there to lend me advice and chapter titles, and I can say in all honesty that she was one of the biggest influence on this storyline.

Snow cones: For without you, I would never live on. Yay me for making awesome snow cones!

Maria @mariaaa14-: As one of my reviewers, I knew I could always expect a great review from her and her thoughts on every chapter in no uncertain terms. Her reviews are always among the ones I looked forward too especially. I owe her a massive "thank you" for riding this with me to the end!

[What's Your Name?] @AwuTanyag: He's been there for . . . Damn, a long time. His reviews may be short, but he made an effort when others did not. He is truly a great fan one could ever ask for.

Jam Jam @xXJamJamXx: My knight in shining armor. My prince on a white horse. My chocolate icing on my favourite vanilla snow cone. He is undoubtedly the sweetest person I've ever met on Wattpad and one of the most supportive friend. He is also taken. :p

Dex @D__E__X and Anthony @__Anthony__: The sweetest couple in Wattpad. Honestly, they should be crowned. I wonder who's gonna be the Queen of Wattpad though.. *giggles*

Needless to say, they've been my source of inspiration on several lovey-dovey scenes, although they may not have any idea of it. Shh.

Ashely@Myfluffymeowcat: I could always expect great review that will make my heart flutter from her. Thank you for riding this with me until the very end! Thank you!

Mom and Dad: For making me. Details excluded. Use your imagination. XD

And of course, every one of you crazy readers deserve my thanks for propelling me along my voyage to complete this. Thanks to all of you guys, from the depths of my heart. This story is for you guys, and all other romance authors out there.

And that's a wrap, people. α ρяσмιѕє fυℓfιℓℓє∂ is now officially completed. It has been a great ride with all of you lovelies, and I hope you stick with me in my future writing career. Who knows, I may publish something someday!

Until next story, whenever that may be!

PS. I am open to any questions regarding this novel, so..ask away!

May Be by Yiruma.