pvtguy

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!

I believe Luke didn't want to call the police because he truly believes Ben has mental issues. though what action he wants to take is not clear. He doesn't want any violence but is also not thinking clearly. Bear is in emotional turmoil too - after all, his father has just died and the family are all grieving and taking out their anger on him. I am eager to see how this resolves too!

Addy is so fortunate to see to her great-grandchildren! She remains the constant rock for her family.

Luke and his dad need to have a very serious and rational conversation. Dad needs to see (not saying agree) with Luke's point of view. I do agree that this is too soon in Dad's relationship to allow this force of nature to have reign in his and Luke's house. She has no respect for him, not that he's had opportunity to truly get to know her either. I have a feeling that all things are not ok with Leander's family now that his brother is the boss, regardless of his initial reaction to Luke.

Very fine chapter! Luke gets introduced to Bear's mother and she doesn't explode; he goes to work and fulfills his commitment - great work ethic; and then, he comes home to the female version of Eddie Haskell (hope you get that reference - if not, I will explain). Can't wait for this to resolve.

Excellent chapter. The meeting with his mother will be most interesting. Is this the right time to do it? Leander wants to pull the bandage off while everything is still raw, but while he has the courage - and apparently the backing of two of his brothers now - it's probably best.

What a lovely visit! I do so love this story and all of the characters! Wish I had the means to visit South Africa and visit all the sites mentioned and eat the food!

So...Taz's dad has admitted he's gay...we'll see how that plays out as the divorce proceeds. Now what's with Bear?

You definitely captured the emotions of all. I love River: he is the balance needed to get things done and not fall into a maudlin state.

I hope Bear doesn’t end up in the hospital because of his dad. The intensity builds!