pvtguy

Having grown up as the first generation post-Depression, I still experienced the values learned by my parents through their experiences, in living very modestly. We never had extra things, but neither did most of our neighbors. This story reminds me so much of the friendships we had and the lives formed out of the necessity to create from very little. It had a richness all its own - and something I find lacking in a lot of today's youth. Thanks for continuing such a wonderful story. Tony

Respect is a top value in the mob hierarchy. It exists between Don Martinelli and Vladimir and was sorely lacking in V's grandsons. Seems they will get a strong lesson from their grandfather, but I, too, think there's just too much literary opportunity for greater drama if they don't get the lesson fully without some acting out... Great chapter, Carlos!

And now we get back to the family at the palace of Makarovia and see the real values of the country come out as they back King Olek! Helga will receive overwhelming support! At least that is my view!

Another well-done chapter! Looking forward to the next chapter.

Hank's whole interpretation of his and Chase's relationship changed in an instant. Yes, he is being unreasonable. Yes, he needs therapy. But he hasn't hit his bottom yet. I would caution against taking sides just yet. The tension created here is what will keep us hoping the next chapter gets posted quickly!

Great chapter. Spence is a lot more gracious than he could have been. Viewing this through the lens of the Great Depression, that they were escaping the bread lines was amazing in itself...but now that graduation has taken place, we'll see how long it takes to find jobs. I love the historical perspective.

I have been reading this off and on for the last two weeks, but more this week. It started out slow and I found it hard to stay with it for a long period of reading. Still, it kept calling to me and I've been reading every chance I have had for the past few days. It has truly captured me now! So well written, so engaging. I was wondering when it would hit that Doc and Mary would discover their real feelings for each other. Now, I'm eagerly awaiting to see how you develop the rest of the story!

Sorry....did not mean to ignore @Mikiesboy. My oversight! You're doing a great job of collaboration!

The intrigue builds! You're doing it again, Wayne - you're creating a story that pulls us into it and then leaves us hanging at the end of the chapter. I know...more to come later! (And I don't mean just Ike, Devin, Ben or Frank!) Tony

It would be easy to assume something from Hank and Kevin...but I do hope whatever it is might serve to allow Hank and Chase to confront their issues and lead to a resolution that helps them both. I do agree with the observations about his dad...it often happens that when the person who has held the family together dies, the family goes in various directions. I'm glad there is a realization that they need to work on reorganizing and reacquainting. Keep the chapters coming, Gary! Tony

While not all is of equal caliber, you are the author and of course, self-critical. That is what makes each offering better and more refined in style - but the core of excellence is present throughout. That's my opinion and I'm sticking with it!!! Tony

I enjoy anything you write, Carlos. Once again, you start off with captivating characters and an enticing plot. Nice beginning! Now on to next Saturday! Tony

So many good comments and points to ponder. I do believe Hank is on his way to hit bottom too. I hope he finds someone to help him (perhaps Stacy?). However, Chase is finally becoming more independent. Depression will always be with him as a possibility, but he has learned tools to help him recognize and work through it. Sometimes it is a moment by moment determination to not slip into a deep funk. One must use will over emotion and allow the rational to be the guide. It's easier said than done, but it is truly the only way forward. Chase is doing just that. I am looking forward to the successive chapters! Tony

I absolutely love this story: it has real depth and is more than a predictable love story. You deal with real issues and processes. This was a great chapter!!! As for mac and cheese, growing up Catholic, Friday was nearly always mac and cheese at home! Still love it to this day. Of course, by Italian heritage has instilled a deep love of pasta, lol! Tony

At this point, we're seeing Hank through Chase's eyes for the most part. We haven't really seen him and his issues yet. He has been hurt deeply, but there has to be more to it. This chapter was powerful. It shows that the skills learned in his previous sessions have allowed him to open up more readily and trust the Doctor which allows him to be honest with himself. The gentle prompting of the doctor leads him to further insight which continues after he leaves the session. I, too, eagerly await the unfolding of this story. Thanks, Gary. for such an impactful story. Tony

Great chapter and great comments! You are doing what great literature always does: excite readers and make them clamor for more! Hank was Chase's first boyfriend, It is not necessary in life to have many before you decide on 'the one' - which is a personal decision, not a divinely inspired choice. In any case, Hank feels rightly betrayed and has lost trust (or at least feels that way). Can they work it out? Of course -- two mature people who choose to work together (perhaps with the needed assistance of a counselor) can intellectually analyze the situation and decide to choose one another from this day forward and work to make that happen. However, that isn't the stuff of complex emotions at the time we are witnessing with these two. I look forward to more chapters. I am a retired counselor who worked with adolescents for nearly 47 years. I have had years of working especially with depression - mix that with adolescent physical/emotional development, and one can only imagine the challenge. I loved it, however! I still volunteer as a mentor one morning each week to work with high school students whose educational progression is suffering especially because of emotional turmoil. It is challenging and rewarding. Do I succeed with every one? Would that I could. I have had to learn to accept the fact that I can't save every one of them or change the life they have to deal with every day. I can only provide a bit of hope and positivity to them and hope they realize that they can grow because of or inspite of the challenges they face daily. Tony

And I'm even later than JeffreyL! However, I find it a superb beginning. You have very accurately portrayed the "screwed up" logic so present in depression. For those who have never experienced it either themselves or with others, it is most difficult to explain but you have done a wonderful job. I will now proceed to follow the rest of the chapters!

I had the same thoughts before I hit "Add Comment"!

I take it to mean that Yuri believes emotional closeness to those you are sworn to protect causes a lack of objectivity and distance needed for objectivity. Eric has a different view. Is he right?

AS long as parts don't fall off with vigorous activity, this ought to be rather an interesting development. Just watch out for falling meteorites!

In all you write, you have a true gift of sharing more than mere words: even in a few words you create a powerful life experience. I echo the sentiments expressed so eloquently in the comments - my own father stopped communicating with me at age 12 other than very superficial comments (hello, goodbye)...a position I have made certain not to do with my own son who is in so many ways the opposite of me in personality, likes, etc., but a wonderful person in his own way. We don't agree on lots of "likes", but I totally respect him, and he, me. That makes things good in life for me, though that loss of the relationship I really wanted with my own father still exists - and he's been gone for 25 years! It just goes to show: we don't always have everything we want in life, but what we have are true blessings and we can be content with what we have! Thank you for sharing so much. Tony

This is a light but very engaging story. I love how you've woven in so many elements: friendship, legal and professional advice, hard work, dedication, and desire in your wonderfully flowing style. Now, would that this story could be real! Do you think the NFL or 'Murica would be openly accepting of this?

I did understand the "redneck" diet statement as referring to Don et al. As for the unprotected sex, Robbie has been checked so many times while in the hospital that he should have known if there were any problems. Still, safe sex should be followed. I found it gave me a chuckle to consider his gravitational problem at the breakfast table. I do hope Robbie continues to work with Jo - he needs her for a true reality check midst the craziness in his life. Now, on to the next chapter!

I really love the interaction of Peter and Eric with all those around them. Many would say that security must not be emotionally involved with those they protect - yet, who is more likely to be protective: the one who loves you totally or the disinterested one? This is what makes it more a passion than just a job.

Happy New Year, Carlos. I enjoy every story you write, regardless of length! Each is powerful and captivating in its own right. This one has begun with the intrigue that will keep me eagerly anticipating each posting! Thanks. Tony F