Accidentally on purpose is just another way to say a fortunate outcome to your intent that didn’t seem like it could end well. So for a tender day, I want to talk about sweet things you’ve done that you never admit was intentional. Like getting that “how did you know I needed this?” when you showed up with a drink or a snack. It’s a weird question to ask, but it’s a good one to consider for writers and readers alike. A sweet gesture with an “I know this helps you, you don’t have to pay attention to it.” attitude, because it’s not always seen in characters.

In my own work, this took a bit before I found the answer to share with you. There is one character we will simply call Gold that is in a book I have yet to finish writing that embodies this completely. But in a character I can share? After I made a mental note for more characters with this kind of sweetly unnoticed intent, I knew I had to talk about Red Letters Greg again. Without too many spoilers, there’s this thing about his flannel shirts. The first time we meet him, Greg leaves a plaid behind with the promise to come return for it, and by implied extension, one of our characters. And while rocky, that plaid item, no matter the color gets quite the work out as an informal safety blanket that helps him keep a promise while also providing care. Because, who doesn’t want a special flannel wrap and catch that technically follows the rules of their situation but also pretty much breaks them apart too. And ok, maybe the ease with which Greg gives away his flannel is why it’s so easy to get that lady in that story to wear it without asking her to? What are your thoughts, and what have you guys got?