pvtguy

You have accurately described the conflict that some forms of Christianity create with those who aren't of their very narrow point of view, which view I would argue is not the mind of Christ as they proclaim it to be as they are quick to quote scriptures that do not come out of the mouth of Jesus but many other sources. In any case, I like that Trace is a strong voice to challenge Pate! I know I will find out how these conflicts are resolved in the subsequent chapters, but limited to just this and the first chapter, well done!

Once again, you've created an intriguing story and captivating characters. Looking for more of these!! Tony

Having grown up with the attitudes and values learned by my parents who grew up through the Great Depression and WWII, I can totally identify with how they are approaching life. Spence's desire to live in the brownstone has added benefits: he gets to see Ann! And now on to the next posting - which I hope is soon!

I am wondering about Frank: he goes to the garage after Ike leaves and tries "to understand why he felt like he was coming apart at the seams". He has given Ike "permission" to fall in love. He and Ben seem to be developing a strong relationship as it should develop with friendship as a strong base. That they haven't "consummated" anything yet, I almost felt as though he might be having some reticence. I love the style, the "story within a story", the characters and the excellent writing by you both! Tony

So much to say about the story and some of the comments, but I will reduce it to these points: 1) We don't know that Hank is seeing Dr.Chorney, but it is definitely possible. However, he apparently has not worked through his feelings about his mother as is evident by his responses to Chase. Thus, I'm withholding judgment still until we know more. 2) Chase is making progress, but he has yet to absolve himself of the guilt he feels. He wants Hank's forgiveness, but he is withholding forgiveness of himself until Hank absolves him. That is still a lingering issue he needs to work through. 3) Dawson is proving to be a real friend! As for the common friends, we only know of the one set of friends who did not seem to take sides. Chase has not pursued them either. 4) Hank is taking Rex for apparently allowing him a great place to play. Yet, it also seems another example of controlling Chase by denying him what he wants. I see it as a more overt manipulation. Another great chapter, Gary!! Tony

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!