Oh, that ending was ASTONISHINGLY wonderful. You really worked so realistically with the cliched thoughts Horace had. Also, I love your understated treatment of Irma, how Horace sees her as less forbidding because of the streaks in her hair, whereas I think the young characters have always found her unremittingly imposing.
Just...Horace is such an adult here, and so sympathetic, and so aware of his own limitations and gifts.
Thank you so much for sharing his world with us, Mystery Author!