For syv sytten da, what a wonderful review ! I'll try to cover most of it.I'm glad you liked the interaction between all three guys. I hadn't thought of it, but you're right. They are building a united front and Nelson brings Jasper in on the deal too.
I think you're right that some things are tolerated, but then we all know that anti-bully policy is not always effective, no matter who the victim is. Go read Graeme's Leopard Spots for a good example.
Yes, I quite agree about the story taking a life on its own. But while you may have the in-the-past issue, my challenge is writing US-high-school of which I know nothing but what I read here. Thankfully I have AC to help me out.