pvtguy

This story yielded deep feelings in me too. Yet, I feel a peace that has been lacking for a while. What great writing you have provided, @CasualWanderer82. It is/was powerful.

Why are some Americans so against regulating fire arms? I know, "people kill people, not guns"... but it takes people to use the guns. This idea of open carry, lowering age limits for who can buy them, failure to differentiate against automatic weapons vs. regular handguns...my frustrations go on and on. These senseless acts of violence will not just go away without strong action by government who are supposed to represent all of us and make laws that protect all of us! In the meantime, I weep, I pray for all affected, and resign myself to being powerless when confronting my representatives. Only replies are get are canned ones: "Thanks for contacting my office." Your poetry is always so moving. Thank you for continuing to share your talent even with the saddest of topics.

Yes, @Summerabbacat, you are correct: the story has appealed to me! What a wonderful start to what I hope will be more follow-up. It's amazing that so many Mediterranean families have such "mothers and fathers" in their makeup. I can relate with Juan's age and beginning to live! I was even older!

You are absolutely correct. Additionally, we also assume all the "Cards" are men...

I definitely agree...but I just hope he might be redeemable. I know it probably will not be a realistic view (per CSI/Law and Order - @Al Norris), but even then, on rare occasion, love won out. So, what is the redeeming quality of Dad that attracted Mum and keeps her with him? I would agree that Uncle Bryan is most likely Mum's brother.

I'm hoping that Dad is not a black and white homophobe. I do hope his love for his son wins out. It would be nice to see a father make the journey to acceptance rather than the stereotypical hard-assed father we see in so many stories.

Thankfully, mom broke the tension. It's amazing how patient parents can be waiting for a child to be able to state what they already know. It will be interesting to see how Dad reacts, but I have a feeling he will be fine, knowing "Uncle Bryan" is gay. Gray does need to see the doctor and get checked out and tested. Next stop: facing Mike! And who was watching? I have a suspicion, but I'll keep it to myself for the moment, lol.

Having raised my son while his mother did, in fact, abandon him in so many ways, I can say that socializing may bring back "bounce", but the abandonment does have a profound effect that stays with him to this day. He was fortunate that her parents and siblings did not abandon him, but rather stepped up in their support. Ludo is doing an exceptional job in his parenting! He truly loves and supports Damian unconditionally, and Damian knows it! Should he go to to the prison to visit his mother and she does as @Summerabbacat suggest and refuses to see him would have potentially devastating effects. Ludo should check with her first before subjecting Damian to a visit. The socializing is much needed. Friendships can become lifelong. Great continuation of the story @Robert Hugill!

Add me to the list of the torturers of these vile men! I am normally quite peaceful, but this evil must be dealt with in equal measure that they deal out!. I personally want to slowly castrate and remove Willis' family jewels with a rusty, dull razor blade while shoving a football up his ass! I am thinking of the types of torture used in the Spanish Inquisition. Ok...rant over. Roger can deal with the Don, I believe, when he explains what was going on with Rizzo's business. At least we know Rizzo has been eliminated. One down, many more to go! I add my kudos to you, @empath for brilliant, gripping writing. I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next chapter!

And the drama builds! How will the truth be made known? The story grows more intense and is approaching a really wild confrontation! Love it!

Mom probably has it out. Is Dad a total bad parent? I hope there is some care underneath the gruff exterior. Personality wise, he and Gray are probably very much alike - hence why they argue so much. (Two north ends of a magnet repelling rather than attracting...) Gray definitely needs to confront Mike, but that might be initially difficult. I still believe that there were substances in the beers. STD's wouldn't have that immediate response, but a drug reaction could! Next chapter, please!

Rebecca is a moving force! She knew she wanted to be with Peter and is a real asset to his move! Her parents and brother were very welcoming. This was a very calming chapter!

I would personally like to castrate "Animal" - make him a gelding with another "Animal" giving him a taste of his own pleasure! As for Grayson's self-reflection and questions: he does share in the "consent" in that he went on his own, but not to be abused. He needs to confront Mike as I do believe Mike may have been overcome by the alcohol or perhaps even drugged by Animal. I'm eager to see the next installment!

Ketchup on pizza? Yuck! However, some people put all sorts of odd toppings on pizza. Not for me! I like that Jamie wants to try to make things equal, even if Bunny is resistant. I'm hoping we find out more about his brother and what his deal is. I, too, am wondering how Bunny knows so much about Reality shows.

Rebecca is delightful and is most eager for Peter to return! It certainly was a bright moment in this trip. When he proves himself correct to Raymond, it may end up with Raymond having further negative thoughts and attitude towards him.

Like @Gary L, I have been hoping for another installment to this tale! A pleasant surprise when I saw it land today!! I am not surprised that Don is living at the church's expense! Daniel might want to connect the arrival of Robbie to Don's change, but it wouldn't be a stretch to believe that his involvement with the cult that calls itself "Christian" is the root of the change. I do hope that while Nathan is in Vancouver, Rory becomes a much more important part of Robbie's life. Thanks for this installment. Looking forward to the next one!!!

I remember the very first Bible course I took in a theology class in college. It really opened my eyes to viewing the literature of the Bible. We analyze, parce, and delve into good literature in order to understand and appreciate it even more. Yet, there are those who would not dare do that to the Bible! It truly won't destroy one's faith to do so, but actually get to the heart of the teachings. @Summerabbacat said it best: Ludo and Arthur have such a pragmatic approach to parenting. It is no wonder Damian and Adam are such remarkable boys.

What Animal did was borderline rape, even if Gray was somewhat willing - but not for what he got! He now knows for sure what he doesn’t want or deserve again! Mike has a lot to answer for.

Perception doesn’t always equal reality. One’s interpretation of an event doesn’t always add up to being the total truth. Mac’s views are very true to him, and they may hold elements of truth, but they are interpretations not impartial and wider views of what actually happened.

Ah, the eternal nature vs. nurture argument. I agree with @Cane23: makes for more intrigue!

I'm really enjoying Ralph's growth in confidence. That he and Therese can have a civil, friendly and engaging conversation is certainly a positive especially for the girls. She does not seem as uptight about their development and interests. Well done.

I don't think the big bang has happened yet...the operative word, yet!

There is little to nothing I can add to the above analyses and praise of the quality of your writing, @empath. I can only add one more voice to that praise!

Such vivid and powerful writing! I felt like the invisible man watching every aspect of the siege of the warehouse. Now to see the mob guys intercepted and arrested or eliminated in a gun fight...

What a transformation that has taken place in Pawn! Now to tame Bishop!