pvtguy

Time-wise,it does appear to be before Matt takes over the store, though I'm open to another explanation. Matt's parents both were disrespectful in how they have behaved toward Matt. Great start in the drama department, but also enough intrigue to keep us reading!

I do agree that the behavior, especially of Neil, is childish, but not unexpected in that he has always lived at home and has not experienced life beyond work and home. He's still a teenager emotionally. Alex is sensitive enough that he doesn't want to hurt Neil. I would disagree that going to Gar's might have alerted him to anything more than the two were good friends. Neal is projecting his own fears and insecurities on everyone else! I am enjoying this story - especially the music references!

A giant step back...but will it mean a giant step forward? Growth often is preceded by recess into the comfortable. Unless Neil can step up, this relationship will never be more than fwb!

Mortality does bring relationships into focus. Evan may or may not be long for this world, but his influence in Alex's life will be a source of positivity it seems.

I, too, agree with @Gary L: the pacing is perfect. It is allowing Neil to progress at his own speed in a comfortable environment created by Alex. They both are regular working people honing their crafts and becoming strong friends first. Great writing!

A new chapter is always a joy to see! There are still loose ends that need to be resolved - especially Don and his shenanigans! The high school angst is so vividly presented. Will Rory forgive and reactivate the friendship with Robbie? Will Robbie continue to evolve and mature, making wise decisions? This story is very compelling. Thanks for continuing and sharing, @Dodger.

Lila is similar to Dawn's personality in Not Just Another Summer: they both are wonderful sounding boards - Dawn to Vince and Lila to Alex. I truly love the pace of the relationship between Alex and Neil.

Having started reading this wonderfully written story late, I was able to binge on it as time permitted over the past three days. Wonderful characters and fascinating premise. I felt sorry for the young man who killed Russell. He appears to be a possible sociopath. Prison will not rehabilitate him if he is indeed sociopathic. I would like to believe intense therapy could help turn him around, but that is another story in itself. Thanks for this story - and thanks for not jumping from the bridge. You are living proof that things do get better!

I do love the progression of the relationship with Neil. Alex is apparently oblivious to any intentions so far.

I am fascinated by the creation stories of various cultures: at the heart of these mythologies is the attempt to explain the mysteries of creation: how did it begin, how do we explain the presence of evil and the role of good, how do we explain differences in people who differ from "the norm"? Tony now sees that his swimming in the lake was immersion in the tears of grief yet a source of life. Phenomenal story!!!

I have a feeling that Alex is going to make a wonderful home in this flat! But will he also be a source of irritation to Uncle Edwin in the process? I love all the characters so far.

Another brief visit to Thomsonville and environs. I do hope you pen another story as a sequel to A Good Place. I do love your story telling!

There seems to be a very warm and mutually respectful relationship between Alex and his mother. Still, both recognize the need for independence and that is being offered via Uncle Edwin. Lovely writing, as usual!

I apologize for such a late start to this story. I have been moving residences and have had little time to think, let alone read. I am making time tonight! And such a great start to another Hugill adventure in story telling!

Another fine story to add the the Hugillverse! This story has a wide range of characters, subplots, drama, and humor. Superb writing keeps one moving from chapter to chapter with easy flow. A must read!