Re: Oh. Wow. (Spoiler alert)
*apologies for the late reply; I've been fighting with midterms and a head cold, and just in no shape to post coherent comments*
I'm so gratified you enjoyed this so much! I'm really glad you like the comedic timing, because that is something I always work hard at. A joke told too simply isn't memorable or very funny, and if it takes too long, the reader will get to the punchline first. Dialogue and humor both need a good flow. :) I loved the idea of Buttercup and wish I'd used the idea more in the ending as well. I always figured Harry and James would be likely to butt heads because of their very different upbringing but similar temperaments. And of course I always love playing those off each other until they wear the differences away and come to an understanding. And I'm really, really happy that didn't seem too offtrack of the Snarry plotline for you. I always have a hard time balancing that sort of thing! And oh, I'm SO glad you liked the explanation both laboured and feeble! I put that line in late and revised it a few times, because I could tell Snape needed some snap. It made me realize that's what I love best about him! Most of all, I'm glad you liked the ending and that the whole story wasn't too fluffy for you overall. I don't know why, but I'm always paranoid that my sentimental bits are just too sappy. Angst just has more street cred or something, lol. But I just loved the idea of Harry getting the best of both worlds--staying with Snape and Dumbledore, but knowing he'd be able to resume his friendship with Ron and Hermione eventually. And yay for the saxophone! When I came up with that, I was so pleased. I just adored the mental picture of a little chibi!Dumbledore getting his groove on and playing the saxophone.
I'm so happy you liked it! You're so welcome, and thank you for the lovely comment!