I'm glad that was helpful. :-)

Oh, yes, when that symbiosis between writer and beta happens, it's a gorgeous thing. It doesn't always happen, but when it does, it's beautiful. And feels really deep and meaningful; I absolutely understand why you still mourn that friendship.

And yes, asking a stranger to beta! Asking a stranger for help doesn't come naturally to me, but learning to do it has been good for me, and good things have come of it, too. :-)