pvtguy

Kyle is going to have to create a whole other social media personality if he is to keep away from his father. His father sees "sickness" in Kyle but doesn't recognize the sickness (alcoholism) in his own.

Dean adds to the tension building up. Wonder if it's Jack's father who provided the eye accessory?

It breaks my heart to think about the kids who are turned out by parents or an untenable situation at home and have to fend for themselves. Yet, Kyle is making his way through slowly. You are certainly capturing the angst, excitement, fears and reality that Kyle is facing. Job well done!

Greenstone was not meant to house children as long as Puppy was there. It is not surprising that there was no internet for the kids. As for Hunter strangling Puppy...He was reliving his brother's trauma and essentially trying to choke some sense into him! Remember, he was drunk and his defenses were down. I don't really think he meant it. He was acting out his rage. Great chapter, as always!

Superbly well done chapter! You've added more background to the drama. Hunter is like everyone else - complicated. I still stand by my assessment that his first sexual experience with Puppy - while probably seen as a dom/sub scene - was rape, but Hunter has explained it as more the dom/sub relationship or his being a user and viewing Puppy as the used. We do see that his motives were actually more layered, and I hope that he eventually understands his actions through a new lens. Now on to the next chapter(s)!

I just started reading this story today but love it much already. The cliffie has me anticipating the next chapter!

Oops...wrong title...it's Title IX, not IV.

Juries are always instructed to base their decisions only on the evidence presented, and, I believe, that is what they do for the most part. My only question, which is the focus here: what if the "evidence" is not the truth, the whole truth...? One would hope that there could be an appeal, but, as we know from cases being reversed after many years, those take a long time if ever heard.

Going back to Greenstone was brilliant on Max's part. Puppy needed to reflect on where he had been and where he was now. Max's words were perfect. Puppy has more reflection to do and he needs to fully open up to Max and Sue about Hunter's living situation: after all, their perception is based in part by the lie he fed them about Hunter's parents. It is going to be interesting to see how this develops. Superb chapter!

Robbie and Nathan are both maturing. Karen is supportive and realistic. She's very affirming to both Robbie and Nathan. Don is up to no good - it's just his nature. I'm still waiting for the confrontation and exposure of what he's really been up to.

And now the plot thickens. Is this the other secret Shaun is holding for Joey?

Time for the lies to end and make a new start in the family. First step to rebuilding trust. And the truth about Hunter's parents needs to be told.

I can totally understand and appreciate this story, having grown up in an area that is called Appalachia. I've seen it with my own eyes! And, no, I did not partake of these actions myself!

So, Puppy has really changed - but as a normal teenager- rebellious, angry, naive, and acting stupid! Invincible, knows what is always best. Yep...a normal teenager taking risks without thinking. The consequences, hopefully, will lead them all to a deeper relationship. Max and Susan will definitely have to set limits and allow the boys to earn trust again.

And now we have it: a deeper insight into Hunter and the 'why' of his behavior. Puppy should have come up with a better statement as Weinerdog said. This will come back to bite him if the lie grows. Yet, it is Hunter's story to tell, not Puppy's.

As usual, you have created compelling characters and plot. I am looking forward to more.

I won't defend Hunter's violence against the kid who taunted him and Puppy, but I certainly understand it. After all, wasn't the homophobic comment a form of verbal violence and bullying? No amount of talking at that point was going to change the kid's mind. I do believe we got a bit of insight into how Hunter became the person he is through his confession to Puppy. As he said, there are still lots of things we don't know. Hopefully, in time, we will... Puppy made the most accurate observation: Steven is the one who needs to confront Dave about his behavior. It is Dave's behavior which has caused the change in dynamics among the friends. Their ignoring it isn't solving it. And Hunter is right: Dave would like to get rid of Hunter all together! Yes, Dave has problems and we don't know how things are at his home at the moment. Still, no excuse for continued bad behavior. Will he get counseling? To be seen. So grateful to see Part 2!!!

I'm truly happy that Puppy has returned so quickly! Four months have passed very quickly for me!

I did enjoy it. You certainly have a knack for presenting very informational topics within a narrative. Wonderful job!

I would differ from Claire in one aspect: Josh needs another session or two for reinforcement of positive behaviors. Will there be more to this or is this the end of this brief but powerful story? Tony

Josh is making progress step by step...he may not fully realize how much he is accomplishing yet, but the fact he comes back, knows he can leave at any time but doesn't, and his willingness to honestly talk is wonderful.

I, too, am looking forward to some tying up of loose ends: the move to the new house, Cindy, Dave... Steven is impulsive and looks for excitement. He seems to reflect on an action after, not before, it is done. Hopefully, as he matures, he will be able to reign in his impulses and do some questioning before doing something that could be risky. Puppy's naivete can be dangerous. I do hope Hunter does not take further advantage of him but helps him to become stronger and an equal in a relationship. Any idea when you might start posting Puppy 2?

The abuser/abused relationship is so enigmatic: the codependence that is created, the manipulation, the guilt, the apologies and empty promises. For the abused to "heal" from a disfunctional relationship, it becomes a day-to-day reaffirmation of one's self-worth, of one's strength, and the ability to move forward. I applaud both the story and the teaching it gives.

This brought back memories on two fronts: first of all, my training as a counselor - seeing how she posed questions and explained her reasons for asking and creating a comfortable atmosphere; secondly, my own journey in working through my own issues. Great start!

I was going to say a long "No-o-o-o-o-o!!! It can't end here" ...but then you said there will be a Puppy 2. I have totally enjoyed this story but feel there is so much more to explore! I'm still leery about Hunter - still say it was forced rape even if Puppy tacitly encouraged it and did in fact enjoy it. He did show a bit of dom-sub behavior. Perhaps it is I who is just uncomfortable with that scene, but Puppy is certainly worth more than that scenario. It will be good to learn more about Hunter, too. Especially now that he's brought Puppy to a place rife with drugs and alcohol. Guess you can tell I'm not a fan. Thank you, James Matthews, for sharing such a wonderful story with us! I look forward to volume 2. Tony