another fitting chapter title. starting is easy, continuing maybe be a tad harder. very good read, thank you.

I like that Buffy wants to start living differently and finally deal with things. But shouldn't being a new Buffy also include being honest with her friends at least about who really hurt Spike if not about her "relationship" with him? And if they're all such good friends shouldn't they have noticed how bad things were for Buffy especially if Dawn noticed how bitchy she's been? Anyway, excited to see more Buffy changes!

Great chapter, good to see Buffy taking responsibility. More soon, please.

That Xander asked about Spike because he thinks the vampire looked trashed makes a big impression. It might sound mean, but I want the Scoobies to learn it was Buffy and Xander to realize Spike took it when he could have fought back, and tried to cover for the Slayer, and is now willing to not 'shag' her to see her happy.
I'm a sucker for endings that leaves all the Scoobies together! Great story, branching off at such a crucial point that's passed over in the show as just another event in the bigger picture. I hope to read more.