Anton_Cloche

Good second chapter 'Q' with lots of things happening, starting with Brady and Kyle offering Devlin a good part-time job on their family catamaran during charters. Unfortunately after Devlin returns to his modest Caravan he is caught up in midst of some nasty business with a gang trashing the caravan park and harming Devlin. Fortunately Brady and Kyle come to his rescue, bringing Devlin back to the yacht to recover, and next day informing him he has been upgraded to full-time employment onboard the yacht along with accommodation included since his caravan is now unlivable. As I mentioned after chapter one, there is something untoward (aka rotten possibly illegal and criminal) by Devlin's older sister and brother after his parent's tragic accidental death. Throwing him out of the family house while still an 'underage' 17 year old for being gay (qualifies as a "Hate Crime" under Australian 'Racial Hatred Act' of 1995 ), as well as - IMHO - stealing his inheritance from him. I suspect Brady and Kyle are quietly working to investigate 🔍 and right this wrong. ⚖️

Good chapter Cal. I know all too well about dreams, premonitions and gut instincts. Sometimes you just have to go with them, whether you believe or not. Thankfully James lives to drive another day, and both Armand and Colin are right to get him driving again, but now in a "reinforced" (aka armored) Jeep. Maybe a little over the top, but better safe than sorry, especially as James drives the boys. I suspect Armand will reach out to help the young driver (his carpenter's assistant).

🔍 Is the complaining student a 'Shining Whit' student who feels entitled, or someone with a hidden 'handicap', like a cardio problem who can't afford on campus high rents but also can't manage stairs? BTW, many chapters ago when Armand was looking at buying the 3-storey walk up building, and was told that he needed a proper exterior fire escape, I suggested bumping out the rear of the building to incorporate a small hydraulic elevet and the staircase. 😕

Another really nice chapter Call. So now I have to come up with `Super Hero' names for your 'dynamic duo' Armand and Colin? Or perhaps it's now a 'terrific trio' with James? First Armand rescues and adopts 3 orphanage boys as sons (okay, Colin was in on that too). Now Colin goes to rescue a hungry, destitute little boy named Ivan, (school mate of their sons), for all the right reasons, only to discover little Ivan is trying to look after his Grandfather, also named Ivan, and ends up not only finding them a better place to live than a shack at the dump, but helps other as well when he buys a trailer park. (Not just a 'helping hand' but also a hand up). It seems Armand and Colin's spirit of giving is spreading, and that is a good thing! This is one reason why I tell others about your stories @CLJobe. If one person can help another, even if only through inspiration, than just maybe things improve. Less of a pipe dream, more like laying a foundation. In My Humble Opinion. (Sometimes acronyms and abbrieviations don't get the point across ). And finally, we have another revelation about Richie when he asks Dad Armand in conversation: "Dad, what happened to my home?" I wondered what made him ask that question. “I don’t know? Do you remember your address?” “My Mother wrote my address inside my jacket. She said if I ever get lost, find a policeman and tell him you are lost and this is your address.” “Your mother was a very smart person. She must have loved you very much.” In my mind, GG help him. “Dad, if I find my address can we visit?” “Yes” What happened indeed? Time for Colin and Armand to did deeper, as something as not right! 🔍

While you are correct that insurance, especially for mortgaged properties, is not yet mandatory in Australia, ALL major banks and non-bank lenders since 1965 have recommended LMI (Lenders Mortgage Insurance) added on to the loan purchased through them (or subsidiaries), just like life, fire and flood insurance. This is especially suggested for low to middle income borrowers for what is most likely their single largest investment, and to protect families. So it's possible that Devlin's parents had both house and life insurance JIC ( Just In Case) which would have paid off the house and provided income. In Australia, (and virtually every other country), Rail, Airline and Marine transport companies are required by law to have CLI (Carriers Liability Insurance) when carrying passengers for hire or reward to, from or within Australia. Carriers' Liability Insurance ensures passengers or their families receive compensation if they suffer death or personal injury. And if investigation proves the carrier was at fault for an accident then compensation will at a minimum double. Just saying, there's investigation that needs the specialized skills of Det. Brady and lawyer Kyle, especially if Devlin's not-so-loving older siblings Melissa and Trenton conspired to cheat him out of 💵.

I agree with @travlbug comments in this first chapter. 4 years after tragically losing his parents in a train accident and being tossed out of his family home at age 17 by homophobic older brother and sister who sold the house, Devlin managed to finish high school with top grades and distinction while living in hostels. He used a small education trust (set up by his parents no doubt) to advance his education. There weren't sufficient funds to afford university (?) so Devlin attended TAFE College, obtained a diploma and apprenticeship in carpentry. Then Covid hit, Devlin lost his job and struggled to get by. Although he lost track of his two best high school mates Brady and Kyle over 4 years, they did not lose track of him. Having earned their university degrees, Brady is now a police Detective and his cousin Kyle is a lawyer. They find and surprise Devlin on his 21st birthday with a cruise onboard their family sailing Catamaran. Now that they've reunited, how can they help their friend? Possibly offer him a job on the yacht (and a place to stay that's not charity)? Will they investigate to see if Dev's siblings hid a large insurance settlement after the accident that killed his parents, along with his 'proper share' from the sale of the family home? BTW, whether the home was mortgaged or owned outright, ALL insurance companies require life insurance coverage for his parents death. Life and Homeowners Insurance policies pay 'Double Indemnity' in the event of 'Accidental Death'. I think Devlin's friends will uncover monies owing to Devlin, more than enough to pay for a university degree and provide help for his future. Oops, have I dropped too many hints / spoilers? Gee I hope not, (frankly my ability to see into the future is shite as I can't come up with winning lotto numbers LOL). I really want to see where Preston takes us in this story.

First, apologies for last 'blank' comment. Not quite sure what happened there, and unable to delete. So starting over. Thank goodness for the 'Anthology' section. When it appears it seems to trigger authors to create wonderful single chapter or short stories that in many cases are some of their best work, as yours is @kbois. Second, @Carlos Hazday (and others) covered much of the good things I wanted to say. Darn! People like Shay, have a harder road to travel than many others in the LGBTQ++ community. The psychological minefield they have to deal with is daunting to say the least, and unfortunately does not always have a HEA. Finally, in your reply to @weinerdogyou mentioned your son. I hope 🙏🏼 he is doing well, as you, your husband and family work to achieve the outcome you desire. Now get your vacation started, as your numerous fans await your safe return; recharged, refreshed and raring to go.

A good chapter, trying to bring everything up to date with wrapping up of people and events, as life moves on... "For now." Kit is struggling to do the best he can for his younger brothers. I am glad Kit is keeping all three boys together rather than sending Lucas and Trent off to boarding school, not just because they are 10-years and under, but because their absence would have a profound negative impact on 4-year old Ryan if more family deserts him. Kit finds a way to juggle his own school schedule, and once their housekeeper Mrs. Grantly returns (from brief hospital stay for smoke inhalation while keeping fire from reaching Kit's house), she will be able to help watch all the boys. As Kit said: "I had officially become my brothers full time guardians, which at first, I had found very difficult to deal with but now a few weeks down the track, I had settled into a routine, and I was comfortable with my new responsibilities". Uncle Mathias acquiring neighbour's property after their house burnt down (a good future investment) provides greater room for Kit and the boys, with outdoor sport facilities including the neighbour's swimming pool. Finally, additional good news on two people. First Father is out of his coma and is starting the long road back. It will take time (much longer than they expect - based on my personal knowledge), before he may resume parenting. Second, Marcus resumed communicating with Kit, so there is hope for a reunion at some point? Perhaps a few chapters, plus an epilogue, say 5 years down the road, with Kit's now graduate 'mate' Marcus, "Lord Marcus Dessewffy, of Liechtenstein" accepting a new position overseeing the Prince of Liechtenstein's business holdings in Australia, New Zealand, and AIOT? Hmm?

Good chapter. More information confirming that Richie's Mother was French and her former maid (friend and confidante) delivered carefully clean, folded and packed clothing (both Richie's and I am guessing some of his late older brother's, hence the 'hand-me-down' event with Tommy and Ronnie. Plus GG visited Richie in his dreams about sharing some of his too small clothing with others: “She said I should see if my brothers or some other children could use them.” Then there is the box with Richie's baseball equipment, awards etc. that Richie isn't ready to deal with right now (he probably played catch with his older brother), so the box is going into basement storage, temporarily. Finally a briefcase, probably Richie's late Father's. He's not ready to open and go though it yet. Does it contain inheritance and other important papers and information? (Not already covered in meetings with lawyers that we weren't privy to)? The next and coming chapters should be interesting.

While @kbois chases around entertainment and 'all you can eat & drink buffets' on the good ship Lollipop (not the S.S.Minnow) those of us left on the dock can review the previous chapters to see if we missed any hints or failed to closely read between the lines. As I opined after Kage's 'death', I believe the heart-shaped scar left on Elijah's chest after Kage's spirit pierced him as he transformed and ascended, left something behind. The "soft warmth spreading through his chest, starting somewhere deep within himself and branching out..." isn't heartburn Elijah's feeling. Nor is it when "Elijah felt a flash of heat zip through his chest", causing him to suddenly veer across the highway to exit for gas. It's like a Kage-GPS giving Elijah directions. After spotting their prey - Gates / Gatwick - they were able to find his hide-away thanks to E's 'eagle eyes' and after 'Chester the Molester' left, Elijah changed back into human form and entered to search the house without notifying and waiting for Tyler for backup. After finding nothing on the main floor, he found the basement door and went downstairs, where "His fingers landed on a switch and when he flicked it up, he was greeted with a startled grunt. Big brown eyes stared at him, widened with fear. It took a moment before Elijah registered the fact that the body he was staring at was half wolf, half human. “Cameron?” The only response was a hoarse sound, a cross between a sob and a rough bark". Thankfully a naked Elijah presents no apparent threat to Cameron who neither growled or lunged at Elijah. But is Cameron chained down? Is he able to walk and flee with Elijah? Will evil Michael / Mickey return before Tyler arrives? If he does, what can Eli morph into to protect himself and Cameron? Damned "cliffeeee'. Two freaking weeks? Why don't you take away my coffee too? While I hope you have a nice Vacay @kbois, maybe after the first few days you'll get bored, or plot lines in your dreams will make you want to email a chapter from on board??

Je pense fausse pudeur

"Fine"? Really? One of two (or more) versions of "FINE" acronym stands for: "Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic and Emotional". The second, which given E's nightmares is probably more apt, substitutes "Fu**ed Up". Something I think both Elijah and Tyler would agree with. Given the state of the body Elijah found and how long the 'boy' has been dead and decomposing, only DNA testing will confirm if it matches Neall's parents, and the unfortunate cub is Neall. Considering that some of the scum that kidnap, sell and abuse children use them in porn and 'snuff' videos, any 'punishment' for Kenneman should prolonged and equal to what they did to the innocent pups. The quote: "Vengeance is mine" (God in Bible - Deuteronomy 32:36 and Romans 12:19), makes me suspect either the 'Almighty' hasn't met Sebastien, or appointed him.

The mysterious Marie. Just a friend of Richie's mother, perhaps from her childhood (in France?), but not family. We are learning more of Richie's past. Snooty art 'critics' have departed. More discoveries from Colin digging through basements and attics? Who knew lawyers had that much spare time. Looking forward to more.

And I'm guessing a station wagon or two over the years. (not a Model A or anything before first Thunderbirds, but you need not go into details 😉.) “Age is a case of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it don’t matter.”— Satchel Paige, baseball player

Kye is stepping in and doing the right thing by taking care of his 3 younger brothers while his father hopefully recovers from attempted murder by his wife. He will have a hard time with after effects of the arsenic, and may never recover completely, meaning Kye may have to stay. Hopefully Marcus comes to his senses and returns.

Or go all Fargo and bring

Another interesting chapter Cal / @CLJobe with more information about individuals in this story. James learning to drive will certainly help out with his job at The Club if he needs to make pick ups or deliveries. I'd suggest a small SUV with seating for 5 (to chauffeur 3 'nephews'), plus room to store some lunch bags would be more help than a car with trunk (since 'station wagons' virtually gone). The Professor bringing a few Euro 'critics' to view artwork at the Gallery turns out to include at least one 'snooty' know-it-all (or know nothing as it turns out). Ps: I've posted a comment (sorry for length) to Mikedup re: Peanuts and Allergies. Hope that doesn't ruffle any feathers. Too much experience on my part. Take care. Tony

Before you try 'boiled peanuts' you need to know and do some very important things. Boiling peanuts for a minimum of 20 minutes at 100°C can decrease but does not remove the cause of allergic reactions - proteins. I am not a doctor, but I have some food (and beverage) allergies or 'sensitivity'. First, check with a specialist certified Allergist or Immunologist, not just a family doctor or physician. They perform skin tests to check for your specific allergies / triggers. It is also recommended that you get re-tested every couple of years even if you have not had a reaction, as sensitivity can change over time with little or no advance indicators. Second, saying I am "Allergic to nuts" is too much of a generalisation. Various components of foods and beverages, including proteins and enzymes can cause allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. There are over 11 proteins in legumes / nuts (including peanuts) any 1 of which, or a combination, can cause potentially deadly allergic reactions. Proteins Ara h-1 (Cupin); Ara h-2, 6, 7, 9 (Prolamin); Ara h-5 (Profilin), and Ara h-8 (Bet v-1-related) proteins generally have to be checked individually to determine which is the greatest risk to you. Third, if you have food allergies you should carry EpiPen (Mylan EpiPen in SA), or Allerject Epinephrine autoinjector. EpiPen is a single or twin-pack and while not inexpensive (1800 ZAR in SA) they are the only medicine that can save a life while waiting for paramedics. Mylan offers free or low cost EpiPen if you qualify. Allerject offers the same medication but in a voice-assisted module (size of a small pager) that gives directions so anyone can adminster if you are unconscious. And always, after receiving an Epinephrine injection, go immediately to Emergency Room / Hospital as you may require an additional injection or monitoring.

6th Grade "teacher" and principal both " Reassigned" to scrubbing pots in jail kitchen, and then scrubbing toilets. Followed by NO LUNCH. Other teachers "simply following rules" set out by 'head teacher' get detentions where they have to make and serve school breakfast AND lunch to all children. In addition provide 'extra take home meals to children in dire need, like that little boy Armand helped. I think Armand and Colin should find a way to take over orphanage, retain Patricia Anderson to run it, and rename it 'A&C School for Exceptional Children'.

I suspect the close friendship that developed between Kit and Marcus over the five years while at school was perhaps more than just being "good mates." Perhaps Marcus has a crush on Kit but is unable to express his own true feelings even though he know Kit is gay. Marcus may be afraid of being rejected or thrown out by his own 'royal' family and loosing privileges, income, a place to live if he reveals his sexuality. Now with (temporary?) responsibility of looking after his three younger brothers until his father recovers, Kit fails to recognize Marcus' fear of losing the opportunity to express his true feelings and forming a relationship with Kit.

Wonderful return home for Armand, Colin and the boys. Lots of stories to tell and photos to show off. If the boys have to write a 'What I did on my vacation' report for school, will they have enough paper? Now we have to hear how James is doing with his culinary education.

I'm thinking that whatever Kage deposited inside Elijah's heart, is a sign that Kage is looking over Eli like a Guardian Angel, OR, possibly a way to summon Kage back from 'beyond' if Eli is in a dire situation. And lest @kbois rap my knuckles to remind that "Kage is dead", I will quote Charles Dickens from his 1837 Pickwick Papers: (that I did not ghost) "Never say Never". Hope it's a Great Vacay! Certainly well deserved.

Life in the family is getting very interesting. The three boys different personalities are coming though. Tommy is the more steady son, having had more time to accept being an orphan but still has moments where he needs close reassuring contact with Dad Armand. Ronnie is more drawn to Pops Colin but seems to be fitting in due to his close friendship with Tommy. Richie is taking longer to adapt because the accident that killed his parents and brother is still too recent, hence his need for more time with Dad Armand. Armand and Colin buying Tony's run down homestead / farm in Italy and plans to transform it into a hostel for children in need is a great idea. Keeping the young man who's been trying to keep it from falling apart, as part of a team working to create the hostel is a great idea as it will allow him to continue to live and work there and learn more skills for his future. It also rewards him for looking after the older woman who bought the dilapidated farm in the first place. Let's see where this leads, but also to see how Tony reacts when he hears about the plan (after all he originally hated the 'village' mural at the club). Another really good chapter. Thanks Cal.

Preston, my comments (on chapter 4), prove to be a bit too accurate about Kye's 'Monster' (not oops Mother) who has gone over the edge by poisoning Kye's father. While recovery from arsenic poisoning is possible, it can take months and often has long-term affects from 'Peripheral Neuropathy', damage to the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord often causing weakness, numbness and pain, in the hands and feet. It also affects other areas and body functions including digestion, urination and circulation. IF Kye's father comes out of coma, it will be some time until he would be even 50% capable of raising 3 sons under 10 years of age. In the meantime Kye will be tasked with looking after Lucas, Trent and Ryan. Is Marcus prepared to effectively be a 'co-parent' with Kye? Will it turn their being "good mates" into something more (since Marcus is aware of Kye being gay), especially as Marcus stood by Kye through his accident recovery and school?