After asking myself again and again why I was writing fanfiction for such an obscure show, with no readers to speak of, the answer finally came to me: at some point, it suddenly turned its scrutiny inward. I don't know if readers feel the same way, but as you write, a story can take on a life of its own and grow by itself. From that perspective, the author is merely the one who tells it.
So I recommend giving this little fanfic, under 30,000 words, a read and seeing what made it grow so stubbornly.
Reading guide: For the plot, start after Chapter 3. For the emotional impact, read the final few chapters.
Theme:
A wonderful pen brings flowers, give one as a reward!