Wonderful essay. I knew it would be. I enjoyed reading it very much. Thanks for expressing so clearly just what makes this pair so special.

And like others have noted, this bit caught me attention, "It’s a crowded relationship, you see. Standing behind Giles with a wistful, mocking smile is Ethan, standing behind Spike, frowning with disapproval, is Angel – standing between them is Buffy, loved by both and a barrier because of that."

*applause*