flamingo136

Thanks.....I needed that.......I can now go in to work with a smile on my face.................Excellent chapter.........Mike:)

Not everyone can confidently escape the security and confinement found in the closet. I can identify with Becker's paranoia....the struggle is real and it is HIS; until the situation changes for him. Only Becker can determine what the tipping point will be......Granted, alcohol, drugs and immaturity are a major factor here......I wish him (and anyone in the similar situation) the strength courage and grace to not only survive but to thrive. Excellent writing, sometimes a little to close for comfort............God bless.................Mike:)

Thank you John..............Mike

John, Firstly, I want to sincerely thank you for creating such perfectly imperfect characters.....it has been a joy to witness the fun, sad and sometimes awkward episodes of Jamie and all. However, I must admit, through tears, that this chapter has reached deep into my memories of a similar crash in which my twin brother was killed......I distinctly remember Matt's reassuring grasp and strength throughout our "rescue". I later learned that he had died immediately upon impact. He was and will always be my protector. Your words, tho' personally difficult, remind me of what's truly important......Life and those whom we love. Mike

So raw and powerful......I am gutted by the emotion Kevin has internalized...............Best chapter yet.................Mike

I'm officially loving this story now.........Mike

Just found this story.......and quite glad that I have......Great start.......Mike

Just a quick note to thank you for creating such a wonderful cast of friends and family for us all.......your ability to connect them with us to ever so clear as we experience this sad and unbearable news....................Thanks, Geoff..................................😢...Mike

I still feel that fear is the main motivator ........FEAR, party of 2? This way please........Love it, Gary...............:)Mike

You did good Geoff.............:)Mike

Fear is a great crippler.....Learning to identify and address your fears can lead to a calmer and more fulfilling life......Just hope Drake can break free from his fears and move forward............Now down from my soapbox..........Thanks Gary.........awesome read....:)Mike

While reading this chapter, I felt that Drake was somewhat like a soldier, weary of the battle surrounding him....with landmines everywhere....no safe path to follow. I totally get the reasoning behind this chapter's title.............Great job as usual my friend...................:)Mike

.............Mike

I can understand Becker's reticence over coming out.....it's a very personal and life changing decision to make....but once done; in my experience, not really that important to others.....Hope that this roadblock doesn't derail Adam and Kevin. Great chapter as usual.....I've definitely enjoyed reliving my college memories................:)Mike

I quickly nodded my head as my dad wandered inside from a midafternoon swim. “Oli’s dating Mark.” My mom quickly shared. “Ma!” Teddy reprimanded before I could. “I’m sorry.” She apologized grabbing my arm and pulling me close. “I’m just proud!” “Stop you psycho!” I cried out, pushing away from her. “Hmm, and here I was thinking he’d be single most of his life.” Dad shrugged. “Good job bud.” He supported, ruffling my hair. “Oh, and Teddy knew!” She let out, putting it all together. “Harrison, our boys trust each other .........................I love this family..............:)Mike

Other readers have expressed a concern for Ryder's heart condition........I would hope that you'll consider the fact that I personally could not survive any dramatic plot twists that send these beautiful flawed souls into despair.......I am being selfish. I know, but MY heart coudn't take it...............Fangirling like hell right now.........:)Mike

I don't think that I could love this more ...............Thanks..............:)Mike

I feel ALL of it.....your words have yet again connected me to this wonderful group of people.....My sincerest thanks, Carlos..........Mike

And to think that my own family was (is) dysfunctional.............:)Mike

Excellent chapter...............:) Mike

I remember one such family function in which I was announced as "The Prodigal Daughter" upon my arrival by a much despised uncle........I immediately felt Drake's pain and embarrassment. You have a gift of reaching readers with situations that trigger long lost memories thus connecting us with the characters....Great job, as usual my friend. Mike Li

What a great surprise today to find this new chapter.....As always, love all activity associated with COTT; it has come to a comfortable warm spot within my heart....... Mrs. B's "adventure" with her late husband's remains was both touching and quite empowering.....I remember, as a teenager,during my grandparent's infrequent visits that my grandmother would always make comment of the travel issues they had survived or some other occurrence of the day they had encountered; that we would simply agree with her assessment.....You see, my grandfather had passed a few years earlier and traveled in an urn.....My sweet grandmother always referred to him in a present tense ....and so did we. As a result, I now tend to to do the same with all my family, whether they are currently alive or not....I know this may sound bizarre to some, but I find comfort being surrounded by those who gave my love and support throughout my life.......Thanks, Gary for sparking a personal connection with my spirit..............Mike

So Jim, How do you REALLY feel? LOL..........Mike

This is a beautiful story Hudson; the path wasn't always easy as life isn't always without conflict. Thank you for sharing your talents with us....I have been touched by this story and would recommend it for everyone.....................Mike

Andy watched, helpless, as Marcus turned on his heel and walked away. This was wrong. The thought resonated loudly through Andy’s heart and screamed at him to run after Marcus. But Andy didn’t know how, wasn’t sure that he could. So he stood there and watched Marcus walk away as his heart broke. Add my heart to the list of those that are breaking.............Beautifully written; you have captured this moment precisely and as much as it hurts;it is necessary for any potential bond to form between Andy and Marcus......Hurry for update..............Mike