Oh you're too kind. Yes, Horatio doesn't do things by half -- he can be a bit slow on the uptake vis a vis feelings, but once he's decided something there's no stopping him (for goodness' sake he decided he was in love with Lady Barbara after one brief snog.)

I have this entire 'verse sketched out which is sort of books and stories and TV movie all codified together in one giant thing. When I write Hornblower stories they're almost all from that same 'verse of mine, in which there is a happy ending.

And I'm glad I convinced you that Horatio could actually talk about feelings. My excuse is they're older and at peace and have been in a committed relationship for almost a decade and nearly losing William made Horatio seriously reevaluate his life choices.

Thank you as always for your comments. It's lovely to be in such an encouraging community :)