Ron

Ron: Yes, I read that, and it is abominable in its own way. It's like saying, "You can't be this, so you must be this." Just horrible, in my opinion.

Ron: Then that means I got it wrong... and then I got it wrong(er). I can't put a silly emoticon here because they no longer show up for me but if I could have, I would have. It seems the quote thingy isn't working either.

For brevity, and not to diminish any feelings you may have - I think you may have just answered your own question. For you, anyway. My first boyfriend, that I lived with (five years), was done without him or me coming out to our families, and began when we were your age. Some never became aware and some made the leap to figuring out our relationship, but not a one said anything. Those that guessed waited for us to bring it up instead of drawing attention. We thrived, until we didn't, but it wasn't do to family interference that we broke up. Five years later when I finally came out to my family, at age thirty-five, because I was I was moving in with another man (who remains my partner) and it was the right time, I told my family and it was to no great fanfare or tears. So yes, you can be with someone in the closet and still have a fine relationship. But unless your views and feelings have changed, I still think you may have answered your own question. Edit to add: I don't know how I missed the fact of his not wanting to be seen in public with you. A person would be hard pressed to view this as anything less than irrational behavior even for someone that's not ready to be out. I know fear can make people do crazy things but unless you're wearing a sign announcing what sex you like to sleep with... You could definitely have the conversation, as mentioned, but this seems too far removed from the kind of relationship you're looking for.

Ha! Marshall is a real thinker.

Leaving us with no real resolution may have been the best possible outcome of that interview.

I've been following the thread since you made the first post, JDM. I didn't make the connection with your friend, the author Green. I very much enjoyed reading 'A Hero in the Hallways' and I'm glad to see the positive feedback you've received from the membership and the administration. I am very interested in reading more of his work. I wanted to let you know this.

Happy Birthday KC! Many happy returns!

I read mostly on my iPad - stories on GA and through the Kindle app - and only occasionally on my computer as far as the electronics are concerned. I also read bound books.

My, what an adventure that was, Iarwain. You certainly do have a good grasp on the balance between science and the personal, human aspect of things. The three young men and the dolphin were great characters to follow the story with. Friends on a wonderful journey in space. I offer a figurative tip of the hat to you.

Exciting, exciting chapter, Iarwain. Thrilling! I was leaning toward the screen as I read.

As great as that walkabout was described I am about ninety-eight point nine percent sure you won't ever find me sucking, however gently, on an ants rear end. Uh-uh!

Kidnapping Freedom - good one, Stephen. Yes, this was a very exciting and suspenseful chapter, and thoroughly enjoyable. What in the world would they do without those pico-factories?

Daithi is right to mention the humor in the story. It has been pervasive throughout and adds an enjoyable element.

Yeah, I found Merrick, back in the day. I remember buying the books at a chain store at my local mall and hoping no one I knew would happen to walk in at the wrong time. I hated that insecure facet of my life. I could be who I was, but not in public and that aspect was awful.

Anything sufficiently wondrous and advanced will seem like magic. This story is fairly wondrous, I must say. I think you've got the 'awe thing' well in hand, Iarwain.

Really, really like this chapter. As has been mentioned, the sense of being there, witnessing the event with everyone is well achieved through the writing. The native origins story is accomplished in such a clever way here, and throughout the story, truly. Very nicely done.

The integration of science and nature in this story is a great plus. You weave them together very well, Iarwain. And let's not forget excitement, there's plenty of that, and curiosity for what comes next.

Nothing but fast forward for those three on Attunga. Each new feature and addition fleshes the story out wonderfully. At the end though, millions of people watching, won't that upset those from the directed habitations? I thought info on the dolphins was to be kept secret in order to prevent retaliation toward the dolphins of earth?

And the plot thickens.... Even though something on this order was expected it's a giant leap forward for the guys. The shock and awe of the guys comes through clearly in the writing. There's a little bit of shock and awe for them on this side of the screen as well.

Yes, yes, me too with the dolphin question but perhaps I am thinking too linear. I should be thinking more spacial, huh? Lots of interesting facts are being set out for us to learn about this time and place and none of it feels forced. That's a skill, really, because we are getting an education in these early chapters.

What a wonderful opening chapter, Iarwain. The excitement of the boys is palpable. There is nothing quite like personal experience to capture just the right tone and the dolphin exhibition scene was truly amazing.

Thanks, AC. It's not the setting sun but a rival in splendor and one that you can look at directly. A beautiful tree in full fall colors, is the bright flame.

Happy to read a new chapter. I admit to getting a little teared up along with Cam. That was an excellent conversation between Kevin and Mark, including the input about sports dangers.

Bright flame in the midst of the lost Surrounded by sentries— Naked silence bearing witness And already done in Dark and slow the river beyond Timorous reflections— Silverfish cumulus pretense— Adumbration of dusk

Happy Birthday Pete!!!