pvtguy

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

What Hunter did was rape...there was no mutual consent. Puppy is innocent enough to think this was wonderful. He doesn't realize he was disrespected even more so than when Dave essentially did the same thing. Steven is a typical "invincible" teen with too much self-confidence. Hope Max and Susan can help him see things more rationally! It certainly is quite interesting seeing Puppy mature!

Dave's inferiority complex, while a normal activity for most teens, is really deeply imbedded. He needs help to deal with it. The "Green Monster" is definitely a deal breaker for any relationship. If Dave could control Puppy's feelings, he was ok - though not really - and did not have to deal with reality. Max and Susan are tremendous. Steven is a realist and very comfortable in his own skin, though he has his own issues. Puppy is definitely growing as a person. Great chapter!!!

I had to laugh at Steven at the end! He lives up to his statement: he likes to watch sex, period! That he is totally accepting is great. He has allowed Puppy to advance in his social growth. I'm eager to find out the Watson situation! Another great chapter!!

You hope we are enjoying this story: well, I'm here to say that I LOVE this story!!! Puppy's innocence combined with Steven's extrovertish behavior makes for great interaction. I have found myself laughing outloud at some of the dialogue! Max and Susan are models for all parents!

My mother's father was married twice. His first wife died, leaving him 7 children. He married my grandmother who then had 5 children, my mother being the last. The oldest child from the first marriage was nearly 30 when my mother was born. Such were the times and the "normal" occurrences in a small mining town. This story reminds me of the stories I grew up with. My grandfather lived in a house that had no running water and a central fireplace heated with coal in the winter. 4 rooms and an outhouse.

Though I prefer HEA's, the second option actually flows with the story, even if my emotions don't want it to be the final ending. I don't want to believe Tyler was in fact a killer. But then again, this whole story had such a dark undercurrent, it follows the logic (illogic?) of the entire scenario. Well done!!!

Further insight into the various characters. Curious about Mr. Watson's decision to take Cindy. Looking forward to further development of this story!

I was wondering how Greenstone was being funded...guess we know in part how it may have been. In any case, like with all things in life, there were good things that it provided to Puppy and Cindy. So much in this chapter - all I can say is it is so well crafted, as is the whole story, and I look forward to each posting! Tony

Puppy is progressing nicely and quickly in adjusting to his new life. He certainly has an ideal family in which to grow. I am eager to find out Max's serious news.