Robert Rex

Dughlas, I'm honored that the chapter touched a part of you, and moved that you shared such a personal part of your life. Anyone around during that era looks back n and has a WTF moment followed by reminiscing. And, glad you're still dancing--that's a certain indicator of life's job--and I'm certain your pup appreciates it! THANK YOU for reading along, and opening a part of your life here. I appreciate you!

Thanks, Avid! I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter, and gratified that you learned something from (the admittedly biased) history. Those really were interesting times! Clayton and Ryan DO make an interesting couple--and good sex is always a good thing! THANK YOU for the comments, and sticking with the story!

YIPEE! About damn time, been waiting for our heroes to get together! There's a whole new world ahead...and can't wait for you to cover it in your usual intensely breezy style. Great job with this chapter ... It connected a lot of dots!

Absolutely a brilliant approach to use the letter to summarize the events in CJ's life, but a great capsule review of his emotional history and current state of mind. And, there's hints that CJ is ready for more with Owen. Damn fine writing here!

I've been away, and somehow managed to miss 3 chapters! But all caught up now--and it was well worth the read! You've painted some complex characters here--Alex, with his studious approach to life and a "certainty" (he thinks about himself, and Devin a little more freewheeling, and still exploring himself. I think it's interesting that Alex left behind his "let's be rational approach" for an emotional response to Alex' poorly shaped confession. Alex seemingly was running on raw emotion in both his encounters with Devin. Devin is (maybe?) overwhelmed with emotions he can't handle well--guilt over the shower play, anger/frustration with roommate, the social/physical pressure of baseball/frat, and now the inability to explain his position with Alex. Damn, I'm exhausted after all of the stuff going on! (Grin) All in all, a well told tale of two guys developing their own paths--and the tracks aren't running parallel! Damn fine writing here!

Thanks for the comments and for sharing your memories--those were bizarre times, and I thought it was important that Ryan understand that part of Clayton's history. And yet, we still got disco out of it all! THANK YOU for the comments--and the "secret" is on it's way!

The new chapter will be out quickly, I promise....not gonna make you wait long! And thanks for the chapter comments!

What a great chapter! Toph is certainly moving forward professionally--the sale of the painting shows that--but he's doing a lousy job of juggling the creative stresses. What's the line, "being consumed by your work"? That certainly fits here! Tops social portion of his life in New Glory is certainly on display, too. The birthday party and recurring visits with his "artist's support group" are a positive thing, but it's a little concerning that he didn't make a bigger deal of release of his phone number to his brother. I'm certain that's an unlabeled factor in the stress. Ah, but Gary's there to help, with an instinct that's serving Toph well. I don't know why, but I'm still somewhat mistrustful of his motives---maybe I'm overreaching here, but somehow, he still has more to prove with me. Solid writing, covering a lot of territory--you did well!

What a tool Sterling is! Certainly glad there's a video there--I suspect Tobi's gonna need it just to keep Sterling in his place. Henri and Nolan make a cute couple, and what's even more remarkable is how protective everyone is of Nolan. No slander, and they're all great at keeping their mouths closed about his nasty past inflicted by his brother. Nicely done chapter--and looking forward to seeing how Tobi develops in this plot line!

Roll from the garage into the house. “Honey, I’m home.” Sounding like a cheesy sitcom, but it feels good being back here. In a lot of ways, feeling more comfortable here—and really am beginning to think of this as home, even if it is Clayton’s place. Guess he didn’t hear me, since music is playing fairly loudly. Some old disco song; can’t make out the words, but the driving beat gives it away. Roll into the kitchen and Clayton has his back to me at the range. He’s in shorts, t-shirt, bare

Glad you're back in full swing! (I've been out sick, thus the reason for the delayed response, and absolutely HATE playing catch up!) Barry's making progress, and our heroes are getting to focus more on each other, building the relationship. And as you rightly point out, the dreams are a part of the healing process, and reflect much that we normally wouldn't say aloud. The unease here is primarily because of Clayton's secret--he's got to learn to trust Ryan a little more, but that's coming.... THANK YOU for being here, for your always insightful comments, and for being such a supporting voice. I appreciate you!

Albert, your insight here is right on the money; it'd be far easier for most of us to move past our egos and deal with issues head on. Rather, we make it harder for ourselves when we can't/won't. Our heroes are still learning that. You're also right--after the chapter release today, Clayton will "come clean" about himself in the following chapter. THANK YOU for sticking with the story, and for your constant support--you mean a LOT to me, buddy!

Sorry for the delayed response--been out sick. I think you're absolutely right; Ryan knows (both consciously and subconsciously) that he's in the right place. He's healing AND moving forward with his life. THANK YOU for the kind words--glad you've been here for the tale!

Nicely done chapter--and why can't the weddings I go to be as much fun? You did well here, looking forward to more!

PTSJ, glad you made it (officially) here. And you're totally correct--isn't it great to have stories worth reading, that aren't just sex tales with the barest of plot/dialog, or stuff that's just plain badly written? Just be prepared for needing more hours in the day; the writing here can easily grab your time! Welcome!

Ash, be prepared--you're gonna be blown away by the quality of writing here, as well as the variety of genres! Plus, some of the nicest people you'll meet. Fun is ahead; enjoy!

Nice start to the tale! More, more!

Damn! They didn't even make it inside for the fireworks to begin! Sheriff only thought he had problems sorting things out before .... But will the school board continue the meeting and tackle the issue? We'll see. A fun read to a serious situation. Nicely done.

Good start to what I believe promises to be an interesting tale. You've built some believeable characters, with solid dialogue, and plenty of room for plot development. Can't wait to see where you take this...good job!

I normally don't read others' comments, preferring to post my own reactions--but I'm glad I did here! Since I'm late, I really can't add to the observations about CJ and what's going on in his noggin--but, I'm hopefull Dragon's involvement will be enough. If it's not, I'm certain the dads will step up to get other professional help. CJ is right--he's dealt with a lot, so here's hoping Dragon's involvement is enough. All in all, a finely crafted, efficiently written, delicately nuanced chapter, perhaps among the best written and involving of the series. You continue to amaze me,young man!

Great chapter! And the note, at the end, indicates healing is underway...he can now at least acknowledge what's happening, and it'll help to build a solid base with boyfriend. Good job!

Sorry to hear you're not at your best--but I really appreciate you reading the tale, and the encouraging words. THANK YOU for the comments--and hope you're back to full speed shortly!

Skinny, I appreciate your insights here--when I first did this chapter, I knew it would be a "healing" one; not high drama, but lots of little things coming together which (later) become critical to the story. Barry's recovery is certainly a part of this since his bar provides a backdrop to the entire gay community. And Ryan's recognition that his dreams are because of Clayton's love/support--and his own love of Clayton--indicating the progression of the relationship, and allowing him to work on his own insecurities. Not flashy stuff, but needed stuff. THANK YOU for your always insightful comments and always supportive approach--I appreciate you more than you know!

Aw, Mike, you make me blush! I'm truly glad you've found the tale entertaining, and that involving! Probably the nicest compliment you could give. When the writing involves all the senses, I'm really feeling like I'm doing what I should be as a writer. THANK YOU for the comments--and even more, THANK YOU for the always constant support. You mean a lot to me!

Thanks for the comments about the story's pace, Fae. It's something I've worried about--the pacing on this story has been a little slower than what I've used before, and it's always a juggling act--to keep the pace realistic, and yet not bury readers in details, but keep the interest up. The "discussion" is coming--maybe a chapter or so ahead--think you're gonna be surprised (at least I hope so!) THANK YOU for reading and commenting! I love it!