Modern AU. The beginning of an affair of convenience and understanding. Anna Smith and John Bates are professionals who live on opposite sides of the globe. When they meet at a conference, things get personal too quickly, and they have to deal with the consequences of a seemingly casual relationship that neither of them was looking for. Prequel to So Long, Lonesome.

"No man can regret loving... as I have loved you." He'd spoken the words before he knew the true meaning of regret.

Can lovers who were ripped apart in one life find each other and reconnect in the next? AU Anna/Bates reincarnation story. What would have happened if Bates had hanged? Romance with a heavy dollop of mystery as Anna and Bates's paths cross once again and they are inexplicably drawn to each other. Will they figure who they were in the past? And how does that affect their future?

"I want to know why Mrs. Hughes said that 'at least there will be no baby.'"

How do you rebuild the perfect love when it is shattered? Or do you even try?

"Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light." - Helen Keller :: The worlds of Anna Smith and John Bates become unexpectedly entwined, as they both question everything they've based their lives upon. :: Modern A/U

A day trip to London and an unplanned travelling companion unexpectedly set off a chain of events that begin to help Mary understand that perhaps she can forgive herself and move on with her life. A story of healing and hope. Set one year after CS3.