In spanking stories- whether real, fictional, or somewhere in between, I rarely find the spanking itself to be the most significant moment. It’s a crucial part of the story, but it’s the context- the before and after- that I find more poignant. If I had to pick a moment that I feel defines a story, it’s that transition just after the punishment. There is a moment of forgiveness- a moment when the atmosphere shifts. The roles are much the same, but subtly changed to express a more gentle form of intimacy.
Acknowledging Imperfection 
I wholeheartedly agree, Kia. The moments afterward are key. The aftercare especially. The forgiveness, the purification, the redemption. All is in balance again and there is a new beginning.
Very beautifully phrased 🙂