John Galt You misunderstand me. My observations were not about John Galt, the "real" person, they were about the story and the characters therein, one of whom is the narrator (not John Galt the person). In short, I tried to separate the artist from the art, to put it in lofty terms. Writing is difficult and I recognize and appreciate your effort and your willingness to share it with us, so I don't see any need for apologies. As a matter of fact, I encourage you to write more, get better--otherwise, why would I bother to present my observations, no? Besides, your story has opened up space here for further discussions and is worthy in that regard, at the very least. In that spirit, let me try to answer some of your questions. (1) Sure, but who is the narrator to decide the "right" time and place for Ruby to grapple with her identity and sexuality? Perhaps being thrust into an alien environment exacerbated, speeded up the process for her? (21) If so, then why would the narrator (remember, not John Galt) make that snide "senorita" remark, if not to present Ruby as not being Nepali enough? (3) My point exactly! That is why I said that the narrator's description of the "good" aunt was unreliable. (4) I am glad that you, John Galt, thinks that way, but getting back to the story, the only thing that Ruby "flaunts" there are her wonderful breasts (if she had everything, she wouldn't be working as a clerk at a job she hates, no?). On second thoughts, maybe she is comfortable with her body and her clothes and it is the prudish narrator (not John Galt) who thinks she is flaunting her stuff?!