December Boys is finished. If you are reading this, it is likely because you have read the whole thing. For that, I must thank you.
This has been a journey unlike anything I've ever experienced. I've called myself a writer my whole life, but this is the first time I finish something. Looking at this story with all its flaws and imperfections — it makes me proud. I almost can't believe I'm writing this note. I never thought I'd get to do this.
Special thanks are in order for some of you.
Thank you to @Fizzbuzzboing for voting on every chapter of this story. That notification has meant a lot to me through these last few months. Thank you so much.
I also want to extend a thank you to @motionlessthekiller for leaving so many uplifting comments. Your comments spurred me on in times of doubt and insecurity. I'm so grateful that you took the time to do that.
A big thank you to @NeverTrustAnAuthor for reading and leaving song lyrics for so many chapters. I had such a blast reading them.
I must also mention @kzayooh who caught up on this story sometime in November and took the time to voice their enthusiasm. Your support means a lot to me, and I'm so grateful that you joined me on the final stretch of this journey.
There are more of you out there, some of you silent readers, others who swung by and left again. I am immensely grateful for every read and vote you have given me. Even those who read the first chapter and decided this story wasn't for them — thank you for giving it a chance.
I know December Boys isn't perfect. There are inconsistencies, maybe even a plot hole or three, and maybe the ending isn't as perfect as I wanted it to be. I may edit it someday, but I'm proud of the work I have done here. Writing a story about an asexual character has helped me deal with some of my own thoughts and fears. I hope Nao can help others, even if that happens to be just one person.
Thank you for reading this. I'm so happy to exist in a world where I can create.
- Aries