Anton_Cloche

It seems like Christmas has come early for all the children including the visitors from Italy. The replica of Ritchie's first home was a complete surprise to him. While the exterior appearance and first floor layout, along with furnishings from his original 'family' home are a great comfort to him; his late father's empty 'office' brings back memories of the crash that took away his parents and older brother. Thankfully his loving nanny Marie is there to comfort him. The expanded second floor over the garage provides for additional bedrooms, and the secret 3rd floor offers both a proper gallery / workshop for Armand to continue to paint as ARROW, and they have a rooftop garden like that on top of 'The Club'. There are still some changes and other 'things' to come. A fishing boat for the children, an update on John's health (other shoe to drop?), a brief trip to Spain to check on Alesander's seafood business progress, and returning visiting children back to the village in Italy. Seems there is never a dull moment in the lives of the Rowe-Roberts family. Eager to see what's around the next corner. x

Great chapter brings new beginnings, new Home of God's Angels, and lots of work ahead for everyone. Getting 'settled'. New (and old) tasks for Armand (painting to sell, decorating the club etc), and then there is Richie's new/old home and its location? In this great chapter they surprise Richie with "my house" on parking lot behind old orphanage. I may be incorrect, (which is why I'm re-reading 20+ chapters) but in previous chapters Colin's law firm verifies the City plan to sell orphanage and property (including parking lot) to a developer. (Even though Colin claims City / developer can't build on property unless old orphanage is torn down and rezoned. Eminent Domain?). Because A&C are converting barn on large farm property outside city, they'll build replica of Richie's family home (original sold to New Haven CT doctor), saying "it can be built behind NEW orphanage" 'Home of God's Angels'? If mistaken, blaming it on -5 weather plus freezing rain and SN❄️W.

Ahh, home at last. Well, at least the 'Residence'. Like Armand said in Chapter 103: "... orphanage. I thought about that name, I hated it. I don’t know why but it seemed to be a stigma assigned to the kids that lived there" I really don't care for the name 'orphanage' as it carries too many negative connotations. For the children in its' "care" it is a feeling of being unwanted and/or abandoned, with hope that keeps getting dashed when you're not chosen, or worse chosen and then returned like an animal to the 'pound'. To adults and outsiders it brings pity, scorn or worse. "Home of God's Angels" as Armand calls it in Chap 104 is better. GG's 'Home of God's Angels' (maison des anges de Dieu). A tribute to GG would work: 'Guardian Angel's Home' (Maison L'anges gardiens)? Or perhaps Armand found a frieze above a doorway in France that he can put or paint above the entry... Anyway, they have arrived, all seems to be in order and Patricia seems to have put together a good and compassionate team. Now we await to see 'Richie's House' 2.0 and his and Marie's reactions. Time for Armand to get back to painting and Colin to 'running' things including John's health.

Sorry, no more food… Are you sure there isn't just a little more that you can lay out for your ravenous (steadfast) fans? Surely as we enter the '12 Days' leading to Christmas there is a First Family Christmas holiday chapter running about in your head. A special Christmas for four wee lads who now have a father, a Grandmother Alexandria and an GrandUncle who can dress up as Santa (seeing as how his 'gift giving' started this whole thing). He could sing a song about 'The 12 Days of Christmas' with emphasis on the "...Lords a-leaping"? Ho, Ho, Ho, don't say no. 🎅🏼

And those stories? Drafted? Stored on laptop? USB key in mayonnaise jar on Funk & Wagnall's door step? Old fashion hand written notebook? ✍🏼️ Don't rely on Siri or Alexa as both of those are one 'Happy Hour' 🍸🍹 away from not remembering squat.

As this Roberts-Rowe family 'European Vacation' draws to a close, it's safe to use the saying: "And a good time was had by all". New adventures await our travelers as they return 'home' to the U.S., to new accommodations with the completed copy of Richie's home and the brand new 'residence' (a better, more hopeful word than 'orphanage' which invokes a negative feeling of permanence in most people). Let's hope after a brief residency, children move on to their 'forever family' futures. Next?

Glad that Ed and James had a mostly private "HonManMoon" including a wonderful week yacht sail from Québec City to Montréal and up the St. Lawrence River to PEI (Charlottetown) and then flew to Halifax Nova Scotia enroute to UK. Unfortunately 'The cat is out of the bag', so to speak, when HMCE / Customs do their usual 'bang up' job of not providing security when requested, (or as they have been accused for years, tipping off the 'Paps' before VIP's can safely exit). Luckily Hunter pulled 'double stack' trick where he, Edwin and James are seen getting into one limo with heavily tinted windows, only to scamper through doors into adjacent limo (hopefully undetected). Limo 1 heads off followed by Paps, while limo 2 loiters around a bit before sliding away the opposite way. Quite frankly, with Edwin's financial resources, he must put the safety and security of his four young sons (under 6 years old), their mums and extended family before his own. Edwin needs to rent private charter jets to fly about, but NOT own a jet (saw how that worked with 'his' yachts being targeted & destroyed). With secure private charters, 'bad guys' don't know what plane to target. Plus, private jets (like Bombardier Global Express 7500 for example) seats 14, bed 4 kids can fit into, 2 bathrooms etc., can fly from Edinburgh to Launceston, a distance of 17,362 kms, with only 1 refueling stop (with a 1 or 2-night stay in Johannesburg, SA), versus subjecting the boys to a 24-hour direct flight. Lots of options that are safe, secure and private.

"hopefully this catches us up", boy does it ever Cal, and then some. Ongoing house & pescateria construction certainly has turned into a big project (like the BIG tuna) and thankfully Geno is there to make sure things go smoothly. Getting back to Italy for Angelina's baptism 😇 shows Armand and Colin just now fragile their four son's 👱🏼‍♂️👨🏼‍🦱👨🏼‍🦰 🧑🏼‍🦱 mental well-being is. Separation from Armand and Colin, even for only a few weeks, reminds them of being orphaned and the fear it might happen again. Now on their way home, with some new friends of the boys (soon to be family members?), reminds Armand and Colin of their expanding 'To Do' list. For Colin, that means getting his father John's health matters attended too without delay (or is it a case where the tests and MRI revealed an 'inoperable' mass and a limited time left, and that John and Colin didn't spoil the family trip)? I hope not for the boy's sake, as they don't deserve to lose anyone else. 🫂

Best bet may be Atlanta, certainly 'nada' in Macon. You could Google 'authentic Iberian Paella' to find something, however two caveats. First, look for small restaurants with limited menu, as it usually means they focus on quality. Second, you shouldn't pay more than $30 - $40 for 'Paella for two'. If all you are getting is 12 each of mussels, Jumbo shrimp, scallops, & chorizo, and maybe chicken, you are overpaying IMHO for a dish that is 80% rice (better be saffron).

Nice wedding reception with a chance for all the family to get to know one another. The two mothers and 4 young brothers, a year apart from 6 to 3, and Lady Alexandria who thought she'd never be a grandmother, has gone from zero to four (and no nappies to change)! Edwin and James extend their "Honey-Man-Moon" to include Canada (Québec and not NFLD) and while at lunch in 'le Vieux-Port' marina, they "overhear a conversation at the table next to us, that caught my attention". Since Québec City is mostly French-speaking (except when dealing with tourists), it's likely the people at the next table were speaking something other than French or English to avoid being overheard. Romansch? German? Italian? All of which Edwin speaks. Possibly speaking about blowing up yachts but missing the target they were paid to kill? Merde qu’est-ce qui se passe, and where is Hunter when you need him? Or did he assign 'minders' unknown to Edwin?

If she is, it needs to be more that a smile or nod. Perhaps 6 powerful meaningful numbers? ⚡🤞🏼 🔔

Interesting chapter 129. Turning out to be a very expensive vacation for Armand and Colin. Time for Armand to paint (and sell) more to his hungry clientele. Speaking of hungry, a simple project to help a young Alesander to get regular work and be able to feed and look after his mother and himself, turns into teaching his stubborn fisherman grandfather to fish for profit not for pride, to enable the family to build and run a fish market (up from simply getting a way for Alesander to transport seafood to hotels etc). The old English saying 'In for a penny, in for a pound (£)' seems to be part of Armand's life. In other words, you start a project (you thought was simple) and now you need to complete it properly, whatever they cost. Plan 'B' for the wharf is one example. Simply buying an old house for use as a fish market / bistro on main floor and family apartment upstairs, is another. Thank goodness for Geno as Mr. Fix-it. But we now learn while the boys are in Italy, they have some new friends who may be homeless and destined to go to the U.S. Next??

Tried to respond via DM without success. I apologize if comment about spelling and grammar was seen as a personal attack on you. It was not. With personal / family experience with dyslexia I am very aware of struggle. That is why I prefer not to list or highlight specific errors with ANY author. Grammarly App is NOT foolproof, despite claims. In fact, if it sees a repeated error, App may accept or ignore it. I enjoy your stories greatly, and encourage you again, as I have in the past, to keep writing. If I can assist in any way, I am glad to help.

Well, another wonderful and interesting chapter in the ongoing saga that is Edwin Crawford, Lord Baron Fordell. Spelling and grammar errors aside, this is a wonderful way to wrap up this story, bringing almost all the important family (clan), friends and other people in Edwin's life to attend this wonderful wedding, including his four wee bairns. There's still the issue of direct (the Romansch in Tasmania) and indirect attempts (blowing up yachts 'at sea' in Keswick and Geneva) to kill Edwin, or 'send a message'. Perhaps a '5 years on' epilogue of sorts, or will Edwin, like other 'Q' lead characters make a reappearance in other stories? Or is this the HEA for Fordell? I and no doubt many others hope, and expect, that we haven't heard the last of our friend Edwin.

First off all 'Lloyds' has never shied away from insuring what others would deem "high risk". Indeed since "official" founding in 1713, and for 310 years, they thrive on such coverage, since the higher the risk, the higher the premiums. Lloyds covered - RMS Titantic. Lloyds also insures (directly or indirectly) yachts of Russian Oligarchs* (more on that later). Second, @Butcher56 and @drsawzall are close to hitting the nail on the head as to who these thugs are / work for. The ADF (Australian Defense Force) investigation into the Keswick yacht bombing, with help from SASR (like U.S. SEALS) will discover bomb residue and unique 'planting' techniques similar to those used by the 蛟龙突击队 ('Sea Dragon' Commandos from guess where), which will link to blowing up of Edwin's Sun Reef yacht. Chinese 'Big Crocs' are equivalent to Russian 'Oligarchs*', and are biggest 'offshore investors' threatening to take over Keswick, (and 'real' Australian businesses). Also like Oligarchs, if threatened they strike back with significant force, both economic and (allegedly) personal consequences. Time for Lord Robert to reach out to 'friends' at MI5, MI6, SIS plus Hunter's connections for some assistance. Fordell Castle as a "Fortified House and walled garden" is a good place to gather, and do what it had done in the past, protect it's inhabitants, and repel invaders. Next? Strike back but protect the next generation of Koen (6) and Logan (5) Thornton, as well as Owen (4) and Corey (3) Harrison.

@CLJobe is not the only author to have had the same chapter posted (reposted) twice on this site. Other authors, including recently, have expressed concerns over chapters being posted while still being edited and not 'locked down' as 'final' and ready to post (as the saying goes in 'print' publications). As an editor, I can attest to the major differences and issues that arise all too frequently in virtual publication (online posting) versus 'print'. The saying, "There's an App for that", does not mean the App is "good", let alone "perfect". The most widely used "Online writing assistant" (name withheld) is one such example. Their site says: "From grammar and spelling to style and tone, (name withheld) suggestions are comprehensive, helping you..." yet legal wiggle words, like "suggestions" try to cover the fact they're not claiming to be perfect, while literally with the next word "comprehensive" (adj meaning "complete") gives App users the very firm impression that they are perfect. Clear as mud? It is entirely possible it was an Oops on the part of the author. Or 'Black Friday' / 'Cyber' whatever day. Or not enough / too little caffeine. Whatever the reason, if we all chillax it will eventually get sorted. A well-known author once opined: "Everyone who thinks they're perfect ... Go to the back of the line".

Just another lazy day adrift on the seas, both under sail (teaching the 'littles' to heel?) and under power while dining so as not to invite problems. All the while regaling us with tales of their travels. Speaking of dining, (and "slimees" 😋), your food and wine details have me gaining pounds not easily shed in winter. As for your comment about celebrating your 70th (6 years hence): "Not sure I'll do anything as strenuous as hiking the Blue Mountains or walking half of Manhattan for my 70th. Where can I park my wheelchair"? Surely if HD can build trikes, 'Harley' can soup up a 'chair' for you. Although I suspect you'll bearly need one, if you're what one of The Golden Girls called their silver-haired gentlemen "sexagenarians".

Beer-battered Butterfly Jumbo Shrimp with a deep-fried 'Blooming Onion'?

A wonderful chapter Cal. Armand and Colin are getting Alesander set up for his future Pescateria business, plus a 'home', above the shop, for himself, his mother and grandfather. They're also setting up the house main floor as a small bistro to sell cooked seafood (they might reconsider that so he isn't seen as 'competition' to hotels and restaurants he sells fresh fish to). The new wharf outside his back door will make things easier for grandfather. Geno sending his tools to help Alesander shows his generosity ('paying forward' for the help Armand and Colin gave to him). Even though Armand explains to the boys his need to return briefly to Barcelona to help Colin, Tommy still shows his fear of being left behind (orphaned 😟 ) again. Tommy will always be a 'cuddler' to Armand and Colin. He, Ivan and all the boys may need some more counselling to help them with 'abandonment' issues that orphaned them in the first place. Children who remember being 'given away' feel that pain more than children orphaned when parents die or are jailed.

Oops, I stand corrected. I mis-ranked Edwin's sons, based on some really life baron's sons who have had titles of 'Viscount' granted to them so they would be above other mere 'Honourable' nobles. (Not giving specifics). Tried to correct that through editing but missed the time allowed.

Has "Lord Edwin" met his match in Julia Thornton, mother of Koen and Logan, two of his 4 sons (through 'anonymous' semen donations)? While Julia was a little nonplussed at her initial meeting with Robert 'Lord Crawford' and Edwin 'Baron Fordell', she quickly recovered and has no problem on having a serious 'life changing' conversation with Edwin and Robert about "out sons" Koen and Logan, inheritances* and change in living accommodations. (I'm guessing the second home Edwin chose will work out to everyone's satisfaction. Edwin's about to find out Julia is intelligent, savvy and not easily pushed over. She is more like a lioness protecting her cubs. * Sons of an earl or baron have courtesy style/title of "The Honourable' before their first and last names. The first son - Koen - would also be 'styled' as "Viscount Fordell" (after Edwin's primary title) whilst Logan would become Viscount Wigan. Upon Edwin's demise (many decades later), both boys would 'assume' their fathers titles and lands. As "There are no death duties, estate duties, or gift taxes in the Isle of Man" (or Australia), both sons could avoid the 50% Death, Estate and Gift duties levied in Scotland and UK, as long as they maintain their Manx citizenship. FYI*

Okaay. Interesting chapter @CLJobewith lots going on. Like juggling chainsaws, balls and lobsters at the same time. Wrong move and two of those things can harm you. First off, a old home backing onto a bay or the ocean is good IF: · water is deep enough for the fishing boats; · a wharf / dock can be built with approval; · can it be zoned for commercial/residential? (in most fishing ports that's not an issue); · Old house on market for a long time AND needs a LOT of work to bring it up to code? = being able to bargain down the price a LOT. · Alesander is up to the task, IF Grandfather can be convinced. Guessing GG speaks Spanish in dreams??

Alesander's Grandfather's mind is stuck on his longtime pride for the 'biggest' catch, of one big Tuna. Armand, Colin and Colin's dad John need to convince him that his 'pride' can still be for the 'biggest', but for how much 'big' money can be made by selling the most seafood. Other fisherman sell small amounts on the wharf. Alesander must show grandfather how much more money they will make from larger catches of fish, shrimp, lobster, crab and yes tuna and selling from a store, to hotels, restaurants and single customers. If the demand is more than grandfather caught, he can buy the other fishermen's catch at wholesale price and make 'big' money on retail sale. Can they teach an old 'seadog' new tricks?

Knowing Edwin's desire for privacy (safe from prying 'Paps' aka media) plus safety and security for family, and his interest in both historical estates and 'up-to-date' residences, either of these 'acerage' homes just outside Douglas IM, and minutes from airport accessible by charter jets would be ideal for 'heirs' and sons. Plus private additional smaller homes on estate: Historical: 'Ravenscliffe' 1849 built 2.5 acre Estate: 'Secure & Private Douglas IM9 1DE Isle of Man https://www.tandie.co.uk/property/listing-56041124 - - - OR - - - More Modern: 'Winterbourne' Hillberry Green, Douglas, Isle of Man IM9 6DE 2.6 ac 'mid-century' Estate: "Secure & Private" https://search.savills.com/property-detail/gbwsrswis160206 (Just having fun)

Interesting chapter Preston, but in his comments, Freemantleman touched on important legal matters vis-à-vis inheritances of lands and titles in Scotland (and the rest of the UK). For centuries in Scotland (and UK) 'Primogeniture' inheritance of titles and lands (in the absence of a proper Will), by a male first-born 'blood' child descendant or relative, was the law of the land (irony but no pun). As a result of his sperm donations while in Uni, and verified via DNA, Edwin has four sons: Koen and Logan Thornton, aged 6 and 5, from Isle of Man (Logan needing bone marrow transplant from Edwin to save his life from leukemia); plus Owen and Corey Harrison, 4 & 3 years old respectively, from St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada. (FYI there is no restrictions to 'Canadian' boys inheriting from Edwin. Wiki or Google Lord Thomson of Fleet. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roy_Thomson,1st_Baron_Thomson_of_Fleet ). There is no impediment to Edwin buying more property on Isle of Man. Whether he chooses to 'let' (rent or lease) these to Julia Thornton (and family, husband?) for his heir Koen to live in is a decision they all need to agree on, and not Edwin bullying his choice on others.