i like the sense of hope at the end. i don't know if you meant it to be read that way, but that's how i choose to read it

I think it's definitely hopeful. I was tempted for a total of two seconds to solve everything and give them both lovey-doveys. But that is sort of silly and very unrealistic. But Harry has forgiven him, for sure, and Draco is mainly trying to forgive himself, as you so astutely picked out. I often think that's the hardest aprt of betrayal... even after the betrayed party has let it go, you can't lay it to rest for yourself.

Haha, thanks for syaing it's not melodramatic. I was mostly alluding to the letter from Terry. I have been craving fics lately where the H/D is threatened by someone outside the relationship (a past lover, an insecurity about someone) and then the boys prove themselves to one another, that there was no reason to worry. You know what I mean? I love those kinds of fics, but I think sometimes they can be over the top.

I'm so glad you liked it. It just wouldn't shut up, and I feel like I need to post fic again before I get into my WIPs with a vengeance. Thank you for this. *kiss*