Chapter 7 is now live, here's some thoughts and commentary:

-A nice Brunch of Beignets doughnuts and Chicken Fried Steak, what can I say, I am sucker for southern comfort food.

-The package reveal is a neat little twist to explore character backgrounds and open up things.

-Chip's excitement over the new Pokemon games isn't completely fictional, they really are coming out on November 19th and pre-orders are already in. There's usually some Nintendo event that goes with these launches for special in-game content.

-In Chapter 6, I mentioned Francis' mom is a music teacher and his dad is furniture store owner in Colorado. Also, a little note, most people know what a violin looks like, but the size of violin will determine if it's actually the larger variant Viola or the small french Pochette.

-Warren's reveal is not meant to be shocking, nor should it be a big deal.

Note: Warren is the first time I've written a prominent Trans-gay male in my stories. I am using some of my experiences with friends, it's a non-issue for me, but I know how hard it can be for others.

-Min's backstory is slowly coming to light. Also, I've used some Japanese expressions that I should explain.

As a fan of Anime and Manga, one thing I've learned about the Japanese language is that there are different ways to say something for different reasons. Subtlety is important here, Min is a character based on a lot of subtext. Many of my characters in this story are forward and vibrant with issues, Min is understated and subtle.

Arigato gozaimasu- It's a proper form of thank you for someone older or strangers, who provide service to you. Mrs. Potter would receive this form of thank you instead of Arigato (for friends/family) or Domo (casual thanks)

Owabi- It's again a proper way of "apology", conveying a deep remorse for what has happened or done. This rarely used word was used by the Japanese Prime Minister in 1995 to apologize for what Japan had done during World War II. It's a very strong way of say "I'm sorry", which can be translated as "Deep Remorse"

-The toy cat Min sends to Ito is the well known Japanese Science Fiction character, Doraemon, in case anyone knows the reference. For those who don't know, the character is a 22nd century robotic cat from the future sent back in time to help his owner's grandfather and friends achieve all their dreams with his inter-dimensional pouch filled with future technologies. The Manga/Anime series has been ongoing since the 1970's.

-The trip through Copley Square, Newbury Street, and Prudential Mall along with anecdotes about stores and shopping are based on real experiences   I do highly recommend going to the Thinking Cup if you visit Boston, they have very unique coffees.

-As for the cliffhanger ending, everyone knew Gary Gaston was coming back sooner rather than later. I hinted in prior chapters how he operates, he manipulates people around like a chess player, then strikes when he creates an opening.

Gary Gaston may be inspired by his Disney counterpart, but he's not a stupid villain by any means. He's narcissistic, arrogant, and cowardly if confronted with an actual threat, but he's also a highly intelligent man, who can use his physical strength and mental acuity to his advantage.