Ellynne wrote:

It's just that I like various aspects of stories where one character is finally convinced to let down at least some of the infamous, emotional guard.

As such, I see the stories as being about the characters either admitting feelings (sorry about the f word), especially trust and concern, they may have for another character or characters.

I think that is the focus of many h/c stories, and something I enjoy, especially when done in moderation. Some writers can convey a lot without the characters admitting to much verbally.

But while trying to come up with the formula that Dana is seeking, I realized that h/c encompasses such a broad canvas that it isn't something I can fit into a single, simple equation. I came up with stories that I'd classify as h/c that have very little hurt and even less comfort. Often those stories could have been told without the h/c elements. But the stories would have been poorer for the absence. H/c added a complexity to the dynamics and the plot, just as Blake's getting injured added a complexity to STAR ONE. STAR ONE could have been told without that element, but it wouldn't have been as satisfying (for me, at least).

Carol Mc