Date: December 15, 2020 02:51 pm Title: Chapter 15
You really let us feel Pam’s terror and warped sense of self here, and how that terror pervades everything – her path forward with Jim, her efforts to deal with what’s happened to her. The description of the Roy-smell clinging to her and triggering her is powerful.
The call with Helene was lovely, particularly in the sense that she thought to make it – you can see her reforming the support structure that’s been kept away from her. “You can still have all of those things, you deserve them all” is important for her to hear right now.
I’d love Jim to be a little gentler with her about bringing the sexual abuse Roy inflicted on her to light – I get where he’s coming from and his message seems right, but it does feel like he’s losing the discipline he had in The Other Pam about making sure she feels like she’s the one making the decisions without being pushed too hard.
Date: December 14, 2020 05:35 pm Title: Chapter 15
Another powerful chapter. I like that Pam has more than one person she trust to talk to about hard things like this. Her Mom has proven she can be relied on. I also really liked that Helene gave Pam some gentle but still needed tough love. To have Pam verbally acknowledge she knows what Jim feels for her. Sometimes we need to say things out loud in order to start processing them like that.
Clearly Pam's scared that she's damaged the precious relationship she has with Jim. There's still a lot of fear in her. Slowly those fears are starting to go away, but they're still there. In some ways they seem even stronger. She has this great new relationship and while she knows and loves it, she's conditioned to expect things to go wrong. So there's fear there that the slightest mistep will cause the whole stack of cards to fall.
But Jim is no stack of cards. His love is proving a strong foundation that will weather any storm. Not that the winds won't blow or few drops of rain might seep in from time to time, but the foundation and walls protecting Pam are solid. I love that. Feels like Pam is really starting to realize that too.
Also loved that Jim wanted to get her the bracelet. A tangible sign that "this is how its supposed to be and you do deserve this." Wonderful.
Date: December 07, 2020 07:51 am Title: Chapter 14
Many jellybeans
Date: December 07, 2020 12:08 am Title: Chapter 14
I'm glad we got to start this with a bit of light. It's lovely seeing them enjoy each other - and the Dwight dialogue was well done. And it's great seeing another milestone in Pam building up her strength and experiencing some joy, including some joy in physically interacting with Jim.
That being said, you set up Pam's flashbacks well - it was a sweet moment, but I was definitely wincing a little at the idea of Jim pinning her down, and it seems like it would clearly follow that might stir things up in her mind no matter how different it is. I think it's important that you're digging into the consequences of Roy's sexual violence specifically - I feel like that still gets downplayed when it happens in the context of an existing relationship. And if she has to go through that, I'm glad Jim is there with her to ease some of her pain and talk her through some of her assumptions about what it means for her life. With his help, she is getting better, even if that just means being able to acknowledge how bad things were.
Author's Response:
Awww thank you x the reasoning behind the Jim/Pam wrestling thing was simply that he wanted to let her overpower him, he was showing her she could win against him ie no danger/no force x
And obv set up the last bit as well x
1 [Report This]Date: December 06, 2020 05:04 pm Title: Chapter 14
Loved to see the first parts of their weekend away. The Dwight imitation, room service, friendly roughhouseing, all lovely.
Then the shoe drops and drops hard. This feels like the last big thing for Pam to let go of. Especially those kinds of memories. I'm sure for years she had to endure all the horrors Roy put her through and more than likely started to believe some of his lies. However through this all, Jim has been building up his own strength. Strength to care and to help lift the burden from her. For him to call her a treasure is probably the best thing she could have ever heard. She is loved, she's wanted, she's respected, she's cared for, she's not alone, she's trusted. All the things she was lacking she now has with Jim. I also like that Jim doesn't back down. Sometimes you have to get a little tough, but when done out of love, as seen here, the message breaks through.
Hopefully with this weight off her shoulders, she can start to really forge and temper the steel building in her spine and let what's-his-name have it in court so he never hurts anyone again.
Date: November 29, 2020 09:18 pm Title: Chapter 13
Always nice to see an update for this one. I also think it's good to see a little tension between Jim and Pam. It shows that they can be real with each other. Not just some image or fantasy but their own real selves, including things that might make them a bit upset with the other one.
Of course that small misunderstanding is made up for by Jim being sweet and Pam telling him what he means to her. Really glad to see that kind of thing. I also like Pam starting to associate past memories with good times. I'm sure a lot of her past memories aren't so pleasant, so to see a good one like that seems to speak volumes for how she's progressing.
The weekend away also sounds lovely. I do like that Jim suggests separate rooms. He's not trying to push anything and is still the gentleman. Though methinks Pam might be on the verge of stepping things up a notch or two. Should be fun to watch it play out.
Date: November 29, 2020 08:59 pm Title: Chapter 13
Interesting to see Kenny's release serving as a source of stress for Jim and Pam's relationship. Seems like Pam is still struggling with the idea that Jim WANTS to be part of her life even when it brings potential trouble.
The fake-lost-item kiss was darn cute - and I'm excited to see that while she might want want Jim serving as her guardian and protector, she's actually okay with a more normal couple-going-away-for-the-weekend situation (even if it just so happens to keep her out of Kenny's way).
The story about Jim searching for the necklace is lovely - and especially wrenching in hindsight, knowing what his going the extra mile probably saved her from.
Date: November 23, 2020 04:45 am Title: Chapter 12
Bit of a rollercoaster this time around. Karen is still being not-so-subtle in her via for Jim's affections. That's a thread that keeps popping up and and I wonder where it's going to lead.
Lovely to see Jim and Pam being more like their canon selves in the office. Partners in crime and just having fun with each other. They really bring out the best in each other and that came through here.
Betsy showing up was a lovely touch. She's warm, loving, and patient. Another person in Pam's corner and that's a great thing. After so many years of thinking she was alone, the more people she can gather round her who love and support her, the better.
Foreboding news about Kenny. He always seemed more like Roy's lackey than anything, but him being free doesn't sound good. Still some insecurites there at the end with Pam. As much as I'd love her to be really free from everything, by now, her feeling do ring true to real life though. Getting over everything she's been through will take a long time regardless of how great her support system is. Especially when there are constant reminders of everything.
Still doing a great job with this one.
Date: November 22, 2020 05:15 pm Title: Chapter 12
I love the ease between Pam and Betsy here, and the kindness Betsy shows here - clearly, part of what has made Jim such a good partner for Pam in this story is that he's been raised right.
I really liked the comic relief here too - you do such a good job mixing that in. The reference to the balloon is a great Easter egg.
Tough to have an otherwise pretty solid day end with such ugly news. Very worried about how Kenny's going to react now that he's out in the world again.
Date: November 13, 2020 08:17 pm Title: Chapter 11
Nice to have a chapter like this. A nice bit of levity where there's nothing more serious than watching Michael's crazy antics.
Pam is lovely here. She is such a sweet and kind soul. Despite everything she's gone through that part of her has remained constant and it's lovely.
Likewise with Jim talking to his Mom. Delightful way to have them interact. Like I said with all the heaviness that sometimes surrounds this story, it was very refreshing to take a break from all that.
Date: November 13, 2020 06:52 pm Title: Chapter 11
I like seeing Pam feeling a little more free to crack jokes and help Jim mess with Michael and Dwight again - it feels like a real milestone on her road to recovery.
It hadn't occurred to me before this chapter that we've seen a lot of Jim integrating himself into Pam's world but not all that much of Pam connecting with Jim's yet - this seems like a promising start. You made the "accidental meeting" trope seem pretty natural, and it's lovely that you've given Pam a chance to impress Betsy without her knowing she was doing so - just Pam being Pam.
Date: November 09, 2020 07:18 pm Title: Chapter 10
Great seeing Pam developing some solid coping techniques - and it's interesting to watch her find her footing in her relationship, trying to make sure Roy doesn't scar that too.
Fascinated to see what happens with the court case.
"Who was she kidding. She faced him every day." What a powerful line there.
Date: November 09, 2020 06:29 pm Title: Chapter 10
I do feel bad for Pam here. She's still battling a lot of demons. I mean I get it. She was in a horrible situation for a long time. She's only been out of that for a short while now. However she is making progress. Her breathing exercises for example. Good to see things like that.
Also really lovely that she asked Jim to kiss her. I'll be honest I was somewhat scared that anything physical would send her into another panic attack. I think that's Jim's concern too. Thus he again proves his quality by waiting for her to initiate anything. Likewise Jim is just there as the solid rock she needs. I've got a feeling that somewhere inside Jim loves the fact he is the man to hold and protect her. Pam is clearly much better in his presence. That's lovely to witness.
Love the image of Jim wrapping her in his arms there at the end. She's right, he won't hurt her. He'll show her true love, something that will heal her heart.
Also Pam, throw the damn book at Roy when the court case comes up. That sad excuse for a guy doesn't deserve to walk free for the rest of his life.
Author's Response: Aww, you're so watchful and awake :) You know the Pam and Jim inside out, I love that we're on the same page in our vision xx thank you so much for reading with such care x
Date: November 08, 2020 05:15 pm Title: Chapter 9
Some interesting choices in this chapter!
Very frustrating to see Pam's parents take this step. Their motives are understandable, but their hurt isn't even in the ballpark of Pam's, and this is a time for them to put her needs first. And of course Pam blames herself for this particular situation. She's going to have to figure out how to stand up for herself with them more.
Interesting to see her healing process continuing. It feels like maybe she was in survival mode so long that some of the hurt is only beginning to catch up with her, and she's just starting to process it.
As always, lovely to see Jim stepping up for her even when he's not at full capacity.
1 [Report This]Date: November 05, 2020 10:40 am Title: Chapter 9
It’s nice to a chapter without crazy Karen.
I have to say that the writers were correct to name her Karen.
I can kind of understand why Pam’s parents went to see Roy. They sort of considered him a son for all those years. So finding out out what he did to Pam was a betrayal to them. I think that another reviewer is right in that Roy doesn’t see himself as doing anything wrong. It probably has to with the way he was raised. Seeing his mom jump to his defense is a sign. I can also see why Pam would be upset that her parents went to see him.
She’s probably afraid they may turn against her if
they see Roy, especially since her mom took Roy’s side at the start of all of this. Also I think Pam is trying to get some closure when it comes to Roy, but she can’t do that if people are pulling
him back her life.
Date: November 04, 2020 06:43 pm Title: Chapter 9
Interesting turn of events with this chapter. I can very easily see why William wanted to confront Roy. Actually I can see why William wanted to beat Roy into a bloody pulp. I do think it's very much in this Roy's character to not admit anything. One, because that's what his lawyer has probably drilled into him. Two, more importantly, in his warped sense of the world, he probably thinks he hasn't done anything wrong. All his actions were justified in his mind so it's him against the unfair world.
I also get why Pam would react like that. It probably feels like a huge betrayal of trust. Why can't her parents trust she can live on her own? Why did they go behind her back? I don't blame her for wanting to get away for a bit.
And where she ends up, is the safest harbor she's ever known. Jim continues to be great. She's growing stronger being with him. He hasn't and won't betray her trust and she knows it. Thus the feelings of safety. Very nicely written there.
Date: October 25, 2020 09:16 pm Title: Chapter 8
I love that Pam is taking care of Jim like this. The flashback does seem a bit unsettling at first. Those are powerful emotions and images. She was stuck in that hell-scape of a relationship for a long time. It makes sense that things are going to trigger memories of it and some of the feelings and words. However she's also showing the strength to cope with it on her own. Lovely to see that.
Oh Micheal. You've got him in top form. So blatantly unaware of just basic decency. Not only with his own relationships, but when it comes to Jim and Pam's relationship. What I do like is that just about everyone is on Pam and Jim's side. They're happy for them and are encouraging. Glad to see such positive reactions.
Aside from Karen of course. Being kind of sparing with her thus far. However there's a few things about this Karen that stand out to me. One, she sees Jim as a target or prize to obtain rather than a man or a partner. Two, I don't think she's going to take the news of Jim and Pam being together laying down. Not with the venomous gazes and harsh words. Should be interesting to see where that story line goes.
Love the scene at the end, with them curled up on the couch. Safe, warm, and happy. Everything they both need. Just lovely.
Date: October 25, 2020 08:34 pm Title: Chapter 8
You're continuing to do a good job filling this with little moments of Pam confronting her PTSD and dealing with the damage to her broader sense of self - and of Jim helping salve those wounds.
This is some quality Michael dialogue, and I love that, inevitably, Michael spills the beans with this just like he always does. It *is* nice to see Pam's colleagues (mostly) being supportive - although could they be more hypocritical?
Wondering if Helene's unscheduled visit and her mention of the Andersons is a hint of things to come - and either way, I am kind of curious as to where things are at with Roy at this point.
Date: October 18, 2020 06:05 pm Title: Chapter 7
Rough start to this for Pam - between Stanley's comment (come on, Stanley, be aware of your surroundings and who you're talking to) and Karen's bullying, it's a tough day.
I really like the choice to have Pam get the chance to take care of Jim for a change - both for giving her at least a little time in her comfort zone and for helping even out that relationship a touch. And both him finally asking her about her sleeping in his bed and the cheek kiss were very sweet.
Good lord, your version of Karen is unpleasant. Like, forget accepting that Jim isn't into you - you really think that suggesting Pam be fired is going to help your cause? Because he definitely has SOME affection for her. Utica can have you.
I appreciate you embracing the sheer awfulness of Ryan, though.
Date: October 18, 2020 03:51 pm Title: Chapter 7
Alright, so setting the scene with typical office chaos with Michael there. Your Michael came through really well. He seemed very in character. Karen is developing into a right proper villain here. Though she's more than showing her hand here. Might as well put up a flag that says "I Hate Pam," on her desk. Which would cause her to self-sabotage her goal of wanting to be with Jim.
Still feeling for Pam with the memories of Roy. However she's able to move past them a lot quicker now. Now that Jim is even more in her life and she wants to be in that relationship with him.
Very sweet of her to come over after work. I'm sure Jim doesn't mind in the slightest. I also love that of her own volition she stays the night.
Thanks for the update.
1 [Report This]Date: October 18, 2020 01:34 pm Title: Chapter 7
Karen is now starting to give me the creeps.
Even if Pam didn’t work at DM that doesn’t mean Jim would go for Karen. Also Pam is pretty much the only real reason Jim even stayed there.
How did others in the office find out that Roy had
been abusing Pam?
It was good to see Michael defend Pam’s job against Karen.
Pam is the Money Penny of the office.
What’s going on with Roy’s case?
Please update soon!
I’ve been really missing this story.
Date: October 11, 2020 06:26 pm Title: Chapter 6
Lovely. Glad they were able to clear the air on some important things. Also good to hear that Jim has taken steps to make sure Karen knows she's being very inappropriate. Also that he told Pam that.
Loved the image of Jim holding her. Just holding her, being there, being the right guy for her. Small steps but still steps forward. Love seeing all that.
Pam's making progress. Realizing how much Jim means to her and where her feelings are leading. Great writing to bring all that out. Loved reading it.
Date: October 11, 2020 04:09 pm Title: Chapter 6
It’s good to see JAM being open with each other, especially when it comes others trying to wedge themselves between JAM.
I’m glad that Jim took steps against Karen by talking to Toby instead of just letting it blow over.
I highly doubt that Jim is the first guy that Karen has harassed at DM. Although I have a feeling that this this isn’t the end of it with her.
Karen having to sit with Kelly should be fun for her. LOL
1 [Report This]Date: October 11, 2020 02:10 pm Title: Chapter 6
The ending there was a whole lot of 'aww', I loved it. I'm glad to see after their initial misunderstanding and avoidance that Jim and Pam are getting on the same page!
I hear you on the a lot going on front, I've got coursework out my yingyang with midterms coming up. Hope to see another chapter sometime, but of course take care of yourself!
Another job well done, looking forward to more.
Date: October 11, 2020 11:59 am Title: Chapter 6
I liked this chapter a lot, actually. I like that you're leaning in to the fact that you can't just slice off 10 years of your life without a trace, acknowledging that she's still got to deal with, say, Roy's mom sometimes. And I continue to be encouraged by the signs of growth from Pam - having the courage to speak up to Jim about Karen, and asking for what she needs from him. (Plus, nice to see Jim recognizing the Karen thing is becoming a problem without prompting.) And I'm a little giddy that they're getting intimate again.
Re: the pace of writing. Seriously, don't worry about it. I can think of at least two stories on this site that went on hiatus for 5+ years before authors came back and finished them, and folks were just happy to see the journey finally come to an end when it happened. Take the time you need to take care of your real world responsibilities and make the story what you want it to be.