hourglass99

I've really missed this story! So glad you're back. What a great chapter. I really like seeing Declan and Bailey getting closer emotionally, physically....

What an excellent chapter! I'm so happy that Bailey and Declan are growing closer... and finally kissed! And I'm happy that the guys on the football team seem okay (other than those few who are Chris's lackeys) with the fact that Chris and Eric are gone. They are in good spirits and rallying around each other while giving encouragement to everyone that they will be fine without them. I'm eager for the next chapter to see how Bailey and Declan's relationship progresses.

I still don't like Daniel. Bailey had told Declan that his father had died only a few months ago. While Bailey's mother may be ready to move on, Bailey sure isn't. Since he hasn't had the emotional support he has desperately needed, he doesn't need Daniel around... he needs his mother. Plus, to me, it's too soon. It makes me a bit suspicious, honestly, especially if she has known him since high school. I smiled and wanted to pat Bailey on the back when he got upset with his mother and told her: "I know what I need to do—get good grades, make him proud, don't screw up. You've told me plenty of times. Got the message." Maybe it will be a wake up call to her that she shouldn't put so much pressure on Bailey to "make his father proud" all the time. It's too much for Bailey to hear all the time, and makes him distance himself from her. Declan is suspicious now of Bailey's injuries, and I wonder if he'll be keeping a close eye on Bailey to make sure he's not getting beat up or bothered by anyone. I really like how they are getting closer, and that Bailey is feeling comfortable with him, and opening up. I'm eager to see how this all works out for them.

I really liked this chapter. I was happy to see Chris (hopefully) get taken down a few pegs, although I'm worried there may be some retaliation because, well, he's a jerk. It was also really nice to see that not everyone on the football team has drunk the kool-aid and is on Chris's side. I hope that maybe things can change and the football and gymnastics teams will become more friendly. Love how Bailey and Declan's relationship is growing, and that Bailey feels comfortable enough to open up to Declan. I'm eager to see how their relationship continues to grow.

Reading Bailey's side of things has been so heart-wrenching! I cannot believe (or handle) how often his mother throws his father in his face like that. As if he's not already feeling bad enough, let's remind him that his father would expect better, had trained him better, etc. Each time she says something like that, I hope that maybe Bailey will turn around and say something to her, but he doesn't speak up. They both clearly need to sit down and have a lengthy conversation about their grief, feelings, etc. It would certainly help the tension in the house. And what is that lawyer up to? I am deeply suspicious of him. He seems to be slithering his way into their lives little by little, and I don't like it. This story is really great so far. I really like the two parts to get Deacon and Bailey's POV. I'm on the edge of my seat to see what happens next.

Another wonderful story, as always! Thank you so much for writing this. I hope for, and can't wait, for the next one!