FanLit

And so it begins, lol. Korner Krew antics in full effect. 🌭🐶 🗞️

That….”man” deserved what he got.

“You could have heard a feather smack a tree, folks be so quiet.” That is quiet, indeed, lol. So the “performance” was perfectly executed and properly received; Albert’s doubts have been dashed for now….it’s good August and Fletcher leave the next day, before any other complication can arise. I'm glad August and Fletcher agree to let Willy James and Runyan have a refuge and am equally glad that it was impressed upon them by Roland that “Under no circumstances can you take either of them with you.” There will be far flung journeys before they can meet up in one place. Godspeed in your travels, gentlemen. When will Willy James take his leave? When will Runyan? Will Ms. Lorraine ease up on the “necessities”? 🙂 Find out next week on “Roping the Moon” 📿🌕 🍻

I’m sorry to hear of your physical pain @CincyKris, severe pain can affect our quality of life. I wish you as much relief as you can get.

I hope you are aware that I did enjoy this chapter, Gary; in light of Willy James’ and Runyan’s predicament, maybe “enjoy” is not the right word…. I was fully engaged in this chapter, (as I am in all your chapters and stories. ) It’s a testament to your writing that I got pissed at Runyan’s father and sister like they were real people, lol!! You are a conscientious storyteller, I know you approached this chapter with sensitivity and discretion; I’m able to relate to it on a level different from yours and you are right about little Sis, she wasn’t wrong in telling her father about what she saw….I just believe she wasn’t right, lol (I did say rightly or wrongly, had to acknowledge my gut feeling) Now you have us invested in the welfare of two couples; if they can eventually meet up, away from their respective concerns, that’d be ideal….if not, the hope is for these four young men to safely and successfully escape the hazards they currently face. 🙏 🤞

That “scene” between Roland and Fletcher can’t come fast enough. It makes you wonder though, how both Rob and August were nurtured by the same woman and turned out so differently….I'd say it’s genetics but Rob bears some type of envy for his little brother, which I guess can still be an argument for genetics, lol, one’s predisposition to insecurity.

I read somewhere once, that Native American parents used to hold their babies noses and cover their mouths when they cried to teach them to be quiet….I can’t vouch for the accuracy of that information but I understand the logic behind it; when you are a certain type of people, living in a certain type of place, you cannot afford to draw undue attention to yourself; I find it hard to believe Preacher Brown did not instill the ways of right and wrong, of fire and brimstone, into all of his children, so I get what you’re saying, Gary, but if she was old enough to tell, she should’ve been old enough to be taught what & what not to tell….the kissing of someone of another race alone should have kept her quiet (if not her, then definitely her damned Daddy should’ve known better)….if Collier and his “klan” decide a lesson should be taught (whether or not Runyan is there), this’ll be a traumatic, guilty burden little sis will carry for the rest of her life….if she’s allowed one.

“You won’t be meeting Virginia, and I’m not sure that’s a proper thing a’tall. Feels like both my sons should be here to welcome her to the family.” 🙄 What a contrary bastard-first it’s “here’s your hat, what’s your hurry”, now it’s a procession to welcome the queen, Geez. Albert nodded as he turned his stare to his empty glass. “She’s an understanding woman and I’m sure she’d appreciate such a gesture.” August’ll have to take his Pa’s word for that, since he didn’t think it was important his future wife meet his children, and how understanding could ol’ Ginny be when she was displeased at the thought of Albert’s grown children still living at home….what the heck was in that snifter? Rightly or wrongly, I’m mad at Runyan’s sister- what the hell was she thinking?!?! The Reverend ain’t no better, practically putting the noose around his son’s neck. As an AfroCaribbean American woman raising a queer child, this situation hits me hard on several levels, a reminder that the more things change, the more they stay the same; people of color cannot afford to be this naive, then or now. 😔 💔 “Well, I know I can speak for Fletcher when I say we feel the same ‘bout you, that we care what happens to you… and Runyan too.” August and Fletcher owe Willy (tee hee, writing his name had me thinking of it in another way, even though I’ve read it in the story several times. 🍆) and his strategic information sharing for getting them together; I’ve no doubt Fletcher would be okay with the other couple coming along, but discretion is the better part of valor in this instance. “What is bedeviling Albert besides drink? Can anything exorcise the devils of prejudice and bigotry from Mr. Collier? Here’s to hoping Willy and Runyan find a safe way to be together. Until next week’s installment of “Roping the Moon” 📿🌕 🍻

Ben is a gem. 💎

This was fantastic. 🎁 Thank you for this glimpse back into their lives. It was nice to see the guys grown and with their families- the ones they came from (I consider Rob’s parents Mark’s as well), the family they made of each other, as well as the families they’ve made with their partners and the people who’ve worked with them from the very beginning. Mark’s evolution is a sight to behold….in some ways, it was inevitable, as he said in the documentary: “That this is a massive fucking reminder that I did not go through all that shit for nothing. Good things are about to start happening… and I fucking deserve it.” Mark and Rob are just as potent as they were when they first confessed their feelings for each other, actually they are more so, since they’ve been tested and are still together, stronger than ever. I loved the reminiscence down memory lane in the form of a documentary….you did a fabulous job synopsizing every episode. August 2021. When I saw that date and how it was skipped over in the documentary, my thought was: "I get that they don’t want the world to know but you can tell us, right?" Then I saw how you ended the chapter…. I know that Mark almost died and I know the information may make me sad (or mad?), but I can’t wait for the details-oh yeah, I have been waiting, lol. Whenever you’re ready.

This was fantastic. 🎁🎁 Thanks for this glimpse back into the lives of the guys. It was lovely to see the guys together, grown and in their families- the families they were born from (I consider Rob’s parents Mark’s in a way, too), the family they created in their friendship, and the families they created with their wives, and the people who’ve worked with them from the beginning. (Hi, Tom) Mark has come into his own in such an unexpectedly public way, if you think about it, it was inevitable, as he said in the documentary “ That this is a massive fucking reminder that I did not go through all that shit for nothing. Good things are about to start happening… and I fucking deserve it.” His relationship with Rob is still as potent as it was the night they confessed their feelings for each other, actually they are more so, ‘cause they’ve been tested and they’re still together, stronger than ever. The documentary was a great way to reminisce down memory lane; you synopsized each episode really well. August 2021. When I saw the date in the story and how it was left out/alone, my thought was: “I get that they don’t want the world to know but you can tell us, right? “ Then I saw the end of this chapter…. I know it involved Mark almost dying and will make me sad (or mad?), but I can’t wait for the details-actually, I have been waiting, lol. Whenever you’re ready.

I must admit, when I saw “Warning: mature content” at the start of the chapter, I became concerned that some foul play might befall one or both of our lovers….instead, the maturity was of each learning how manifold their blessings be. 🎁 🍆 Love is an ingredient that enhances every interaction but, I gotta say, lust is a damned fine thing, too, lol; (my perverted ass was impressed that Fletch became a deep throater on his second try, lol!!) That love and lust walk hand in hand with August and Fletcher makes their pleasure all the more special. (back to the romance part of it now. 😊) You’ve taken a different direction with this couple, Gary, uncrossing their stars and letting them give in to their feelings earlier in the story, I’m looking forward to see where these determined partners go, also hoping a meeting with Grandmama Harriet is in the future-I wonder if Maureen took after her or Mr. Brewster in looks (maybe she was a combination?) How much longer ‘till our intrepid explorers start their journey? How much longer until August matches Fletcher ahem, “skill for skill”? How much longer until Rob is fully moved into the bunkhouse? Find out in the next installment of “Roping the Moon” 📿🌕 🍻

“Inside, something shifted. A realization. Quiet, certain, and nowhere near ready to be spoken aloud.” Johnny realized he’s in love. 💘 Given his celebrity status in the surfing world, this is obviously not Johnny’s first “encounter”, it may not even be the first time he was picked up….one can wonder if this is Johnny’s first real relationship or the first time he’s ever been in love. What is obvious is that Bruce is the first time he is Johnny Day, not Johnny Day-surfing god, not even Johnny Day-budding thespian, he is just Johnny Day, the favored patron at Slice of Napoli. Bruce knew who Johnny was when he approached him but you could tell he was interested in far more, and he’s getting it, piece by piece. 🧩 Watching Johnny deconstruct and rediscover (or discover?) himself has been fascinating….he's transitioning to a highly competitive field in the performing arts but competition is nothing new to him, lol, and neither is performance as an art, if you think of it….it is his approach to it that is new. Johnny’s success may be more guaranteed than most if his destination on Hollywood and Vine is as a working actor and not a movie star….given his natural charisma and the open way he’s approaching learning this craft, movie stardom could be a possibility, if he wants it….time will tell. The relationship he’s building with Bruce is a great foundation for whatever comes next.

I already prefer Ryan to Cameron and I don’t care how sexy or charismatic Cameron is, I was not feeling the way he pushed up on Marcus- in the bar, and especially in his house; boundaries are a thing, so is consent. While Marcus’ kiss showed his attraction to Cameron, it blurs lines that need to be clearly defined, because Cameron doesn’t understand “no”.

“August leapt out of bed while a multitude of stars still shone above,” August woke up before sunrise and must have thought he was still dreaming after the conversation he had with his father, lol. “Reckon it’s past time I stop fretting over you boys.” WHAT?!?! The only boys he’s thinking of now are the two between his legs…. I hope Ginny rides him to death. So Ms. Maureen was Albert’s Achilles heel and upon her death he became all heel. It seems Albert was a good husband-was he a better (although clearly unlikable) man when Maureen was alive, or did she delude herself about him and unknowingly enable his ruthlessness? Or did her death make the worm turn? Albert speaking to August as a person (let alone with concern) seemed so strange….while there was his own self interest to evict his child involved in his conversation, I detected a note of reflection on what was, likely because August’s departure will truly close the door on this chapter of his life….I dare say Albert seems lonely (and likely backed up if he’s never tended to his “needs” since Maureen’s death-no wonder he was cranky)….seeing Lorraine still alive and happy with Roland Crawley was no doubt salt in his prideful wound. ““They’re your initials too, boy,” Something about this declaration was jarring, Albert acted as though he never wanted to claim any commonality with his youngest child before; Who was this man, indeed. “He sorely needed some humbling. One wrong move, or one word from Virginia, and August had no doubt hewould be in the bunkhouse.” I hope Virginia tries to seduce Rob under his father’s nose or at the very least, tell Albert Rob was making advances….that Rob’s future is uncertain serves him right. “Well, sir, I ain’t so good at talking… but I know in my heart it’s way more than any urge like you’re talking about. I’d… the only way I can say it is that… well… I reckon I’d rope the moon for Fletcher if’n I could.” It sounds like you talk just fine, August; that line put me in the mind of Coy Diamond and Boone Dixon, lol. August’s planning session with Fletcher and Roland was great, (I’d forgotten the Crawleys didn’t know about August’s inspired brainstorming); that they’re looking forward to creating the scene that’ll lend credence to August’s tale says everything about their sense of devotion to each other, as well as their sense of fun, lol. I wonder what distraction the businessmen of the town have planned for Albert? Will it go on with this new development? Could Virginia be the plan?!?! ‘Tis a fine thing to get approval from your father in law….a measured man, indeed- I reckon August done growed up. “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how”. All this smooth sailing has me nervous….Is this all too good to be true? Will Albert wizen up to what’s going on? Will Rob’s now precarious situation make him a vengeful spoiler? Find out in the next installment of “Roping the Moon” 📿🌕 Oh and 🍻to the triple chapter, which comes after the double chapter last week….are you fixin’ to go on spoilin’ us, Mr. Gary? 🎁

HERE HERE!!

“He leaned back so he could see into those eyes what made his hard world soften” what a touching turn of phrase to describe sanctuary. 💝 Being born and raised in a loving, secure household gives Fletcher confidence and courage, he will take the risk of loving and living with August in unknown territory, yet his level headed ways recognizes that some risks are closer to home (Albert) with a “far reach” and have to be neutralized before August can make a safe departure. “But to be honest I’d prefer we come together like married folk do, carrying the promise of a future without any of the worries we have now.” How romantically noble for Fletcher to want to wait and in that instance, lifesaving, as we now know Rob the roach was lurking around spying. A second son who grew up with envy and feelings of inferiority, Albert made plans for the type of life he wanted to show his family up, that appears to have included a woman like Lorraine, who if nothing else, had to be physically appealing, (as Albert is all about appearances). Without knowing Lorraine’s family situation, Albert may have been a means to financial security, as that was one of the only viable options for an unmarried woman not born into wealth….who knows what charming or boorish ways she had to deal with in their courtship; it was a claiming on Albert’s side, not a betrothal, and an obviously still deep affront to his pride (even after making a love match of his own), that Lorraine’s choice of another man keeps his grudge against Roland, Lorraine and their offspring alive-“He took something what was mine!” ….that Lorraine was “something” in his recollection of their courtship, speaks volumes of what he did (and did not) feel for her, I wonder if Maureen knew and how she felt about it (if she did). August’s “conniving” was inspired, and worked because of his father’s hatred of the Crawleys and anything he could do to sow dissension in the family whose very existence is still an insult to his vanity. The reluctance Albert showed to offer his own child assistance to make his own way, either in the form of coin to start off or backup, as well as the begrudging release of horseflesh, and transportation (that he doesn’t even need or use!!) shows that Albert is more miser than father. Albert’s distraction with his new marriage was another factor in August’s favor- he was already in the mindset of wanting his sons gone….for all of his talk about legacy and inheritance, he surely is treating his heir like shit under his shoe- “And Rob, she’ll be in charge of the house so you need to mind her, you understand me? I’ll side with her if you don’t get along”. Virginia already has her hooks in her new husband- if he’s also willing to remove his heir from comfortable surroundings to pacify his new bride, what will happen if they have children of their own? Personally, I hope she poisons him and takes everything he owns. When is departure day for August? Will he really be leaving on his own? How long until Rob is living in town? Find out in the next installment of “Roping the Moon” 📿🌕 🍻

“He’s the shadow what darkens my life every damn day I’m here.” Though accurate, how very sad that August (or anyone for that matter) uses that description for a parent. 💔

I concur but I think he’s going to get tired of me salivating over his descriptive abilities every week, lol.

Unless Mrs. Cooley was as naive as her son, I can’t think being Albert’s wife was an easy time of it, (unless Gary’s going to surprise us and show us the only time Albert had a heart was when he was married to his wife).

I think the chapter referenced that Fletcher is one of seven siblings, though I don’t know if he’s the oldest.

For all the dangers and challenges ahead, the confession of the reciprocal feelings between August and Fletcher is the very best development, (though I must admit my stomach clenched with their first kiss, fearful that Rob might have come upon them). There is nothing more special than knowing the love you feel for someone is equally returned. 💝 What a wonderful depiction of family acceptance and support as represented by the Crawleys this blessed pride month 🏳️‍🌈, that both Mr. and Mrs. Crawley know and are okay with their son’s sexuality is a rare thing for those times, I reckon….it’s a beautiful thing Fletcher’s uncle was able to find happiness and his struggle clearly left an empathetic imprint on his sister and brother in law. August, as good natured and hard working as he is, comes across as dangerously naive when it comes to what Albert is capable of, even knowing how bad his dad is; I’m glad Fletcher opened his eyes to how far Albert will go to get what he wants-if he would threaten and torture strangers, imagine what he would do to his own son, whom he views more like property than progeny….August will need to be very careful with his exit plan; should he and Fletcher manage to merge (in all possible ways, lol) they’d be ahead with Barnswallow and Fletcher’s herd and flock. Grandmama Faulkner living with her “spinster” friend leaves me in the mind of thinking that she would be open to knowing her grandson loved another man. What in tarnation will August and Fletcher do to be together? What in tarnation can Augie do to escape from under his father’s thumb in one piece? Can Albert fall off his horse and break his neck? 🙏 🤞 Find out in the next installment of “Roping the Moon” 📿 🌕 🍻

Ahh, I see the new series starts with the last three chapters of this series…