Dear Author - a Yuletide Letter

[reynardo]

Dear whoever is writing me something for Yuletide this year.

First of all, of course, the names are different. My LJ name is reynardo but my Ao3 name is Mary West. Confusing, yes?

It's my first year. I am *so* excited. Also, I've cut right back on the writing, but I reckon I'm fine for this one. But enough about my writing. What are my needs?

All the time, I want characters to be themselves. Are they tapping you on the shoulder and saying "Like this. That's right. I would have done *that* in those circumstances"

I love origin stories and filling in the gaps. What did Paula in "Random Harvest" do when her husband didn't come home after his interview in the city? How did Frederick Wentworth explain his sudden short temper and gloomy attitude to his sister after Miss Anne Elliot turned him down, and did Captain Harville cheer up more once he and Louisa started courting? What was the attraction between Bill and Jim in Tinker Tailor?

If they lead down the path of heat and fire and bodies clashing, let them. But there's no need to force it. I'm quite as happy with G rated as I am with M. Or even E. Again, let them lead where they will. Stick your nose in this ratings list and I would prefer we stay inside green, blue and purple at the most, just this time. There are times for the others, but not this time.

Or friendship fic. It can be just friends. That would be fine too.

And don't worry too much if your fic starts straying outside the boundaries. They do that. It's all the characters' faults. You are making something for me, and I love you anyway.

Thank you.