Mancunian

Robby didn't get his happy ending in this story, nobody ever wants to lose the one they love, hopefully he will enjoy happiness again in his young life. As for Darren, well really he did get his happy ending. I know that sounds ridiculous, but if you think about it, it's not as ridiculous as you first think. It's sad that Darren died at such a young age when he is yet to achieve his potential, but he died knowing that he was loved by the boy that he loved, pulling out of Robby's drive he was no doubt happy and had a smile on his face. So in a way, although it is sad, he did have his happy ending.

Congratulations @northie this is a fitting and well deserved promotion for a writer of your talents.

In just a small number of words you capture the loneliness, desperation and desolation of a man, his life, his home and the city. Nicely done, thank you.

This is a beautifully crafted and well written story about a magical Christmas. The sad beginning has you fearing the worst for Dares (Darren) but hope comes from a most unlikely source. When you read it, like me, you will almost believe in Santa again like when you were little. It's a great feel good story that should be read by all.

I may have to seriously consider upgrading my membership. 🤔

The way in which CJ treated Brion had its similarities but was also different but still typical CJ, as you have created him, in both cases the respect was evident as was the directness. I'm sure that CJ will come up with a suitable nickname for Brion as he has with others, maybe something on the lines of hotrod lol, what ever it is it will be relevant to Brion. The way you have depicted Brion he has a strong character and my guess is he can be fiercely determined, this could be good for CJ as he just may meet his match more than one argument, but even then I don't see them falling out. As for you living long enough, well, I think you have plenty of time yet, but just incase I do have the plans for Frankenstein's life giving machine lol 🤣🤣🤣

I think you dealt with it in typical CJ fashion, direct with thoughtful and measured compassion, but most importantly with respect for the person.

This is a great short story that introduces Brion into CJ's ever expanding squad. It's not full of hearts and roses, it has it's own issues that are dealt with sympathetically by this excellent writer. Nobody will go wrong by reading it, it's a story to enjoy.

A great short story and a brilliant way to introduce a new character into CJ's world. I can picture CJ being like that with Brion, accepting the person for who they are regardless. Brion's reaction at their first meet comes across as natural, most people with his disability are often ignored with others speaking to the people around them as though they can't think for themselves. As a friend of mine once said, 'A lot of people don't speak to me they speak to the stick or speak to my companions about me as though it's my brain that's broken'. When you watch how people with disabilities are treated you can see that this is often the case. I'm looking forward to reading how you integrate Brion into the bigger picture, I'm sure you will take the same care that you did when Brad was injured by concentrating on the person and their qualities and attributes as a whole while not focusing on the disability unless it is relevant. Thank you. And just for the record I second that thought, all those in favour vote now, lol.

For a short story this is a good read that leaves you wanting more, I would welcome a follow-up.

I like this short, the storyline flows naturally with Mark's thought's being very relatable and like all good stories it leaves you wanting more. I'd love to know how Brad and Mark get along with each other and if their chance meeting progresses to more. Thank you.

TWINK Trevor wants Ian, not Ken PICKY

would like to but nope never have I ever eaten mealworms

banana full fat or skimmed milk

Eccleshall, UK

radiography

imbibe

word processor

I've forwarded it, fingers crossed 🤞 crossed I've done things right.

I've never submitted anything for the anthologies, mainly because I'm thick and can't get my head around the full process to post one. I've got something that I'd like to submit for the current one but I'm still unsure on how to go about it. I understand how to forward a submission to @Valkyrie, it's the process after that I can't get my head round (like I said I'm thick like that, lol)

DAILY During anal Ian loudly yells NOISY

nope never done that I've been to the coast but never have I ever swam in the sea

neither custard or cream

Exeter, UK

socks