I've had this on my reader since last year and I cannot believe it took me over a year to finally give it a go. I was maybe avoiding the "blackness" side of it. It was dark yes, because of all the abuse Avery has endured during his childhood but it's also a beautiful testament on people's enduring love. (I wished every foster kids who suffered the same get to have a big brother Sam in their lives.) 
 And Noah. Where did he come from? What a guy! <3 
 Joey's story arc just broke my heart. I feel that through Avery, he was very much alive in the story! 
 This truly is a beautiful piece which I'd probably reread for months to come!