Fleck’s Quiet Ache
Beneath the crowns, creatures, and conflicts of the Fleck Series, there lies a quieter thread—a subtle, consistent story that some readers may not notice at first glance, but for others it will resonate deeply. It’s not announced with a dramatic confession, nor resolved with a fairytale ending.
Many readers may infer Fleck and Maple’s bond as an enduring, caring friendship, which is a valid assessment. But readers who’ve lived this heartbreak—will recognize the silences, the small sacrifices, and the way Fleck’s life orbits Maple’s without ever fully connecting.
From the beginning, I chose not to label their relationship outright. Fleck is bisexual and in love with Maple. Maple is heterosexual returning Fleck’s loyalty with sincere friendship, but not romantic love. The pain of that asymmetry lingers—not because Maple is cruel, but because Fleck’s love remains unanswered.
Fleck’s core guiding decisions are shaped by her devotion to Maple, not as a pledge of friendship—but as a steadfast love that waits, follows, and compromises.
- From the beginning Fleck states she will return to a quiet life in her hometown of Bellberry. Maple promises to leave the Mystic Circle and return with her—but never does.
- When Linden dies, Maple disappears into grief, pulling away from Fleck.
- As Fleck submits to the Shale to rescue Linden, Maple does not mourn the loss of Fleck – she takes Linden and runs to safety, leaving Fleck behind and in danger.
- When the castle is built, Maple moves in—leaving Fleck behind in the cottage. Despite having said she would never live in the castle, Fleck quickly follows Maple —intent on staying close.
- Fleck states several times through the novels that if Maple asked her to, she’d give up Gavin.
Fleck is dedicated to raising a family (Laurel and Linden) with Maple, content in their friendship —fearful to dare or more.
This isn’t a grand romance. It’s not even a tragedy. It’s something more fragile, more real: a lifelong, unspoken love story tucked beneath the surface of a fantasy epic. A story that may echo in some readers’ experiences. Sometimes, the most powerful love stories are the ones that remain unsaid. Sometimes, the softest enduring ache is the most severe one of all.