Perhaps her need to be someone's first priority at all times is a reaction to her isolation there--it's her way of protecting herself. I keep looking at the screen and thinking "Fred, try taking care of yourself for a change," but Fred has taken care of herself and she doesn't want to have to do so ever again. And being part of a group isn't secure enough for her. Perhaps reasonably so.

Wow. I think you've got it. I haven't been able to write Fred at all because I just didn't *get* her, ever since "Waiting in the Wings." But if you're right, and I think there's a good chance you are, you may have just given me the key into her head that I've been needing. :-)

If so, thanks!


Azar