Aw...that was so sad. and very adorable. i loved it. I could see him being like this. So loyal. 3 I loved how you kept us guessing on who it was till the end.

I love short stories. They are difficult for most writers, because of the seductive urge to keep writing long after the point has been made. Tight, sharp, focused writing is every so much harder than long-windedness; and, it is much more of an art form than a craft. You handled this beautifully. I did not catch on until the very last, when you revealed what you wanted me to know. I had tears in my eyes when I finished this story. Brava!

A lovely mad Erik, which I did not "get" until the end. What's interesting is that his imaginary mother is so unlike the one he must have had.

Certainly Leroux-based, but also very Susan Kay-ish of Erik.

Aww...*tear*

Erik has such beautiful mommy issues. I love your prose, by the way. Flawless and touching.

wow, I've never read anything like this before...it's really good. Very detailed and a good body.

Why are so many stories involving shoes sad? -sniff-

Love it madly! (Ditzy Nota has found you!)

oh that was so sad. very very well wriiten! I think it really gets you in a strange sort of way. Amazing well done.

Kudos! This is beautifully written ). And very, very sad. I love it!