pvtguy

And once again, you have both captured my attention and whetted my appetite for more of your delicious writing!

Come on Sue! Grow some brass ovaries! It's time to confront Don and the Pastor! Hopefully, the Coast Guard might also initiate an investigation!

The woven web is hopefully going to be undone. I hope Len listens.

A wonderful short story where a young boy experiences life outside his former comfort zone. In a week's time, he makes new friends, enjoys new experiences, and grows in self understanding. Easy reading but most enjoyable.

Thank you for sharing this story with us. It's been a short vacation for me too, though vicariously. I'm so glad Reza allowed himself to drop his pretenses and learn and enjoy a wider view of life. Well done!!!

I have enjoyed every chapter! Such a wonderful treat. Thanks for sharing this!

Ah...what memories to take home with him!

Such a turn of events! His "mum" who said he was her favorite yet had him beat down must know. Oh what a web that is being woven! Love it!

You really have a knack for capturing teen angst! Very well done, indeed!

I have forgotten the timeline with Puppy....I know he wants to work at Greenstone in the future, but not sure if this is not far enough into the future. It would be a nice coincidence if he should meet Luke... Not at all surprised with the news about Elaine! I'm wondering if she had a specific motive for targeting Len and Luke... I actually thought it might have been Josh creeping up the stairs to Luke's room should he and Elaine come back, but glad it was Taz who caught the eruption...

I believe Reza's reactions are absolutely normal for anyone facing situations for the first time which challenges one's assumed values. It will be interesting to see what does happen.

Late to start this story, but appreciating the vicarious vacation! I do agree with @drsawzall in the assessment of his parents: he is most fortunate (and I bet he'll be most appreciative of them as he grows even older!). Wonderful writing!

Lots of hurdles to surmount following this chapter. I'm glad Luke is leveling with his dad.

Perhaps more pronounced in some than others, aging is going to happen and we need to learn to embrace the journey. It's nice to be told that one doesn't "look your age" - whatever that means. I know the number of times I have traveled around the sun and I still don't know what it means to "feel my age". Some days I feel old, other days my body works fairly well. My mind is active and I intend to keep it that way even as my physical condition changes with each passing year.

You certainly don't disappoint when involving us in the angst as it hits both Ryan and Drew! Their love for their children is certainly the center of all they do - even if they have to rearrange all they do! Andrew especially is going to have to learn to let go and trust but verify in his managers. The businesses are doing well because he has hired well. That is not to say "hands off" but learning another system that keeps him involved but without micro-managing. The kids do need grief counseling, but it should involve family counseling and time for just Andrew and Ryan: if they want to effect change, they have to create the structure in which it can take place. They are loving enough, but there are small steps they can take with Fiona and Jamie to help them realize they are in a stable home. Still, none of us has a guarantee of the number of days we have on this planet. Tough reality to deal with especially with children.

It's always fun to read about those first times...great job.

I don't believe it will end at this. Will the police protect Bear and Duke? Is Luke safe? Wonderful suspense you've created!

As I am the oldest child in my family and I see the health of my younger siblings failing, I can sense what Addy is feeling. Reminds me of a pastor who started a sermon one Sunday with the following statement: "I was walking in the cemetery the other day and realized I had more friends under than on top of the ground." As more of my classmates from high school keep dying, we are getting to be fewer alive. I'm not afraid of dying - but I can't help worrying about those I leave behind. Guess that was what my mother felt too at the end.

Oh...another for Brad. But somehow, I have a feeling that you're going to surprise us...

Ditto above! Thanks for this short story to flesh out the journey of CJ, Owen, et. al. I do like this format as an interim to a longer volume. Plus, as you say, it allows you to publish more often for which I will never complain! Tony

Interesting turn of events. Luke definitely needs that therapy! His mouth gets into motion before his brain gets into gear! Totally out of line with Duke! And I could truly see an insurance scam especially if Clyde found out the true nature of the finances...

Len told Luke that he was going to tell Elaine that Luke's room was off-limits. Is that what they might be discussing on their "walk"? In any case, Josh shows no respect of property.

I do hope Leander is still alive! You have created a very compelling story!!

Excellent description of Alec's emotional journey in this chapter! Mae gave him birth, but he has created his life. She was a miserable woman who never allowed herself to be happy and took out her bitterness on her husband and son. Henry only tried to please her up to the time of her death. Hopefully, he and Alec will be able to build a relationship which allows both to grow as stronger individuals.

I can only ditto the other comments for the most part. I still love the relationship between Dad and Luke. Sharon is a hoot! Love her!