The introduction of Adrian to the story makes for some good "drama" but I can't imagine that anything in heaven or earth could separate the two lovers.
As a retired academic, I can certainly understand and sympathize with your situation. There were times when the ideas just didn't come and I couldn't stand to sit at my desk and stare at a computer screen that stubbornly refused to fill itself with the words I needed. I hope your Muse returns soon. Meanwhile, best wishes! -Oz
Mark,
I'm a little late in the day finding out that personal issues have prevented you from writing. I am sorry to learn about your troubles and I hope that your situation improves quickly. Given that normally we can set our clocks by the arrival of each excellent new chapter, I look forwarding to reading about my favorite characters again. To paraphrase an old orange juice commercial: A day without Will or George is like a day without sunshine!
Best wishes,
Oz
Somehow I had missed reading Red Running until chapter 16 appeared. Then I read all 16 chapters at one sitting and was hooked. I quickly began to care about the characters and the pain in their lives, even though I think the plot is rather contrived (sorry!). I look forward to reading how you resolve the dilemma you set up in this chapter.
Simply put, your two series are the best work on this or any other story website. Your writing is virtually flawless (Dormitat et Homerus). Your ability to maintain a compelling plot week after week is nothing short of amazing. And it appears that you do it all just for the pleasure of your readers. I can only say that I am deeply appreciative and sincerely grateful. -Oz
I eagerly looked for each pair of chapters to appear and followed the story avidly. I look forward to the next book about your "Fab Four" (hint, hint).
I usually don't care much for short stories because they often don't have much of a plot or characterization. This is a notable exception. Great story.
Maybe I'm just a vindictive SOB, but would not have received Scott back so easily. The old saying about making him crawl over broken glass comes to mind, and then a nice soak in a salt-water bath. Talk is cheap and actions speak louder than word (for a couple of apt cliches). I hope then next half-dozen chapters are not just talking, talking, talking.
JJ finally seemed like a real person in this chapter. Before this he always seemed to be tossed in to provide a snit or tantrum and then leave without really interacting with the other characters. I wondered how you planned to make such a one-dimensional a major player in the books that follow 9/11, which it seems he must be along with Will and the others of their generation. -Oz
This is good start toa story that looks like it will be a little different than the usual Christmas story. I look forward to reading the rest of the story. -Oz
The epilogue was a splendid ending for a splendid series. I was especially pleased that several of the teenage pairs grew out of the "first loves" as they were moving out into the larger world. I've gotten really tired of reading stories were teens ( or even pre-teens) "live happily ever after" when it is so unlikely in real life.
I look forward eagerly to you next story!
Don't worry, Fitz, the story is developing just fine. The tension is building and I am anxious to learn what happened to the relationship - although you have been dropping hint all over the place. Good job.
After twenty years together, Derek owes Noah some " palimony." Sue the bastard! Even if Noah didn't win the case, he would at least show the world what shithead Derek is.