UPDATE: My reader apologized and we talked things out. Let's keep supporting each other, everyone ^^

So...I got a message from a reader (I'm not going to call them out) who's upset about my occasional early-access chapters for sponsors. To be clear, every now and then I make a chapter available early for my top-tier sponsors. I don't do it with every update, and I don't do it with every fic. I've focused on Arc of Time because I noticed that most of my sponsors are also devoted commenters on that story. But I mean...I don't even know what to say. If it really bothers you so much that you have to wait a few days to read a chapter, then maybe become a sponsor? Like MAGIC, you'll have access to the chapter too.

But I understand that a lot of people on tight budgets can't afford to sponsor fanfic writers. That's why I don't lock fics behind permanent pay walls. And that's why I give readers other ways to get early access. Like with the upcoming Messy/Come Clean sequel: anybody who commented on a certain chapter automatically gets early access to that fic.

And maybe it helps to remember that support from my wonderful sponsors means that the rest of you all keep having fics to read? I try very hard to focus on my engaged readers and not let silent readers get to me, but it's tough sometimes. There are hundreds of readers who never leave a comment or upvote, even though they read every fic I write. I used to be a silent reader too, so I try to remember why I was like that. But can you truly be upset that I thank the readers who keep me writing? They deserve so much love for their encouragement and support. Occasional early access is the least I can do. 

Anyway, I know it was just one reader who was probably writing in the heat of the moment, but I wanted to clear this up now, before it becomes an issue for anyone else. Also, you dont have to be a sponsor to show support. I notice who comments and who doesn't. Trust me, my commenters are going to get a special gift this year too.