84Mags

What a relief, as well as a pleasant and wonderful surprise. I was worried this chapter would be drama filled. My guess is there will be those saying that the much needed chat has been avoided, but I don’t see it that way at all. A mark of a solid relationship is picking your battles and knowing when to bring the heavy stuff up. Loren was badly injured and in pain. He needs time to heal both mentally and physically. Jay got that and handled the situation perfectly, to include not only caring for Loren but also keeping all of Loren’s followers/fans in the loop. Heck, he even gained more viewers! The fact that Jay recognized he’s been similarly physically hurt also helps. Obviously these two will need to talk it all out, but I am thrilled they used this time to further cement their relationship and allowed for Loren to heal.

Excellent chapter that had a bit of everything and ended with the rock climbing drama that we are now apparently on page 3 of the comments section discussing. Since work delayed my attendance to the commenter party, I think the easiest thing to say is that I agree with where everyone is basically going with their thoughts…Jay and Loren are due for a sit down chat. It’s time they begin setting some relationship guidelines about communication. The enema was hilarious, but frankly also showed a lack of communication. Both think about things but don’t say them to the other. Obviously Loren changed his mind about the climb. I’m interested to hear why. And did he ever tell Jay he hadn’t planned on climbing? As for Boss Nanny and chapter 19, I went back and reread it. Yes, the accident was omitted and Seamus was using Jay’s phone to talk to Matt. There are texts coming in from Loren while they’re talking, but the chapter was focused on Seamus and Matt apologizing and reconnecting. Since it wasn’t specified what those texts said, maybe that could be used in this story or an edit point for the other.

Poor Peter! A tough, but necessary (and hilarious), lesson on how to think before you react. Perhaps now he will grow into his new position.

I am always so happy when I see you are a commenter on a story I am reading! I get a lot out of what you have to say and you are gracious to others when expressing yourself. In this scenario, though, I think you have a faulty premise. As a spouse of a retired military officer, I can tell you that a military career is all about compromising to include perhaps asking the person to leave the service. But that’s really not the issue here. We all got used to Jay’s ability to articulate well, assess any given situation and put Loren at ease. Last chapter we saw a few dings in that armor when he had a bit of anxiety going into the first time they were having sex. This whole situation would have been different if he’d expressed concern and asked to learn more about rock climbing and safety protocols. The parts of the climb that upset Jay were due to not understanding what was going on. I agree that rock climbing might not be a requirement of Loren’s job, but it is certainly a part of it and is a sport he enjoys. He might be very willing to give it up, but the missing link is an actual conversation. Which our guys haven’t actually had. I see compromises on both their parts in past situations. They will get through this.

Compromise in any committed relationship is difficult. Without it, there can be miscommunications, hurt feelings, tension and lots of unspoken thoughts that can turn to resentment, especially when the relationship is new. Compromise is important. It fosters peace and balance in the relationship, helps maintain trust and shows mutual respect. Unfortunately this was not a compromise. Jay was selfish. Even though he did the ‘yeah, I know I’m being a dick but…’ type caveat, and most likely doesn’t recognize his request as selfish, he was wrong. It’s ok to express concern for the safety of someone you love. The Loren who Jay fell in love with is a rock climber. Safety while climbing should have been the discussion, not ceasing the sport. It is concerning that Loren cancelled an upcoming climb without talking it out with Jay. Loren seems to be reacting to Jay being contrite and not wanting to add tension to the trip rather than addressing how important the sport is to him. I realized in this chapter that neither Jay or Loren really understand what the other does. While Jay is learning about Loren being an influencer, the relationship is young and there are key parts he doesn’t know enough about. Loren knows very little about football or the NFL. Now that they are in a stronger, more committed relationship it is time to learn more about what each other loves outside of their relationship. The great news is that they obviously love each other. They know how to compromise and have done so in other aspects of their relationship. They just need to chat it out.

What a perfect way to start the week! As someone who is also way too in their head and an over thinker, reading how Jay processed while he prepared for sex with Loren was spot on and endearing. That Loren knew Jay well enough to do the goofy-cute role play made the incredibly hot sex scenes both intimate and adorable. And, just as Loren admitted that clothes can be much sexier and private than revealing your body, waiting to have sexual relations until you are in a committed relationship can make the experience all the more fulfilling for some couples. Loren’s self esteem seems to blossom with that commitment and the anchor of settling into the relationship and belief he is worthy of Jay’s love. These two really are made for each other! There’s a lot going on in this chapter and something tells me the coming out of a major influencer and NFL star will bring out the worst in some. We have a lot of chapters still to go… I literally laughed out loud at my social media shout out! MrsG your writing is most definitely dope!

I really don’t like Northman! Anyone who treats underlings poorly and only becomes professional and neutrally nice after learning an underling could someday be their boss isn’t a decent human being. That said, at least CJ’s work environment has vastly improved! Loved the set up to future interactions and stories involving Domogarov’s defection and the Russians. It seems every chapter I have a favorite part or take away. This time it was Jimmy saying to CJ, “Bring your temper under control, and I bet you’ll move mountains.” Truth…for anyone and absolutely everybody.

👆🏻Truth It occurred to me from the sheer volume of comments or responses to my comments that this subject might be triggering for some. While there are many valuable resources available through a rather quick web search, these two resources are important. https://www.childhelp.org 1-800-4-A-Child (422-4453) The Childhelp United States National Child Abuse Hotline and website for safe reporting and resources https://www.havoca.org International website for: Help For Adult Victims of Child Abuse

There isn't a specific term, but it is often called target-child selection when only one child is singled out for abuse. A few years ago, the US media picked up on a similar family situation and called it the Cinderella Phenomenon. It has also been called a scapegoat child. In households with abuse, statistically it is common for siblings to be at different risks for abuse. Overall, studies since the early 1960's consistently have the same findings. Namely, abusive parent(s)/guardians tend view the abused child with misguided perceptions. Abused children are twice as likely to have a disability or developmental delay and are viewed in a negative light. They are seen as having behavioral problems and as the cause of stress for the abuser. The abuser is three times more likely to have substance abuse problems as well as poor coping skills. The abuser tends to view the child with unrealistic expectations and treat the child as an adversary. Many other factors play into the family dynamics. There isn't clear data on how often only one child in a sibling group or multiple is selected, but it is no longer considered uncommon. Abuse is under reported. I know this not as someone who was abused, but as someone who clinically works with those who are or have been. I will say again, this chapter is very well written.

The chapter made me too sad to hit love, but I must compliment you on how exceptionally well it is written. Abuse is complicated and therefore difficult to define in neat little categories. It is even harder to express. Every bit of this chapter expertly showcases the lasting effects of abuse. Loren recognizes his behaviors towards Jay but truly cannot stop himself. He is able to see what others notice, but cannot change in the moment. Abuse does that to a person. The really great news is that Loren began saving himself at a young age and isn’t looking for a savior in Jay. Although emotionally afraid, he is still reaching out for Jay as a partner. The chapter gutted me, but also gave hope.

Oh my sky with these two slowly falling in love! 🥰 It’s like a textbook for how to do slow and steady until you are ready. You can’t help but smile and go along with the waiting. Love that Jay has finally gotten Loren to admit to a level of commitment and define their relationship. In the grander scheme of things, six months really isn’t all that long. But there is still a ways to go. My guess about Loren not attending Jay’s games, or letting on to his friends that they could go, has a pinch to do commitment issues and a large dose to do with his extensive followers figuring out that he’s into Jay. Until very recently Loren was unable to admit that to himself, so to let on to his followers would have been emotionally too much. The posting of the footsie pic is a literal step in the right direction.

This was a fun chapter with a lot of important connections as well as re-connecting with old friends. I really like Katie and am glad to hear that she will be part of future stories. Adele seems perfect. I was surprised about the positive praise for Northman, but then CJ is great at acknowledging the good in others, so I guess I should have expected it.

Happy St Paddy’s Day! Loved your tale. It was very well done and left me with more than a wee bit of a smile! 🍀

Oh my gosh, great catch! I was literally going back through Boss Nanny to try to figure out Loren’s childhood. I couldn’t recall if it had been mentioned. Thanks! ☺️

A really long time ago when my husband and I first started dating and I was upset he started to ask if I needed a hug or to be snuggled. I can be a tad prickly when upset and sometimes want to be left alone. So what came out of his mouth was ‘Do you want a huggle?’ All these many years later that term is still the best way to improve either of our moods or move a fight into resolution. Maybe once Jay and Loren figure more of the relationship out Stratego will be code for snuggle! Happy Birthday, MrsG!

Loren’s internal dialogue is the polar opposite of Jay’s. Whereas Jay has the confidence in himself to work through whatever is going on, Loren either avoids, spirals or talks himself out of allowing himself what he wants when he feels uncomfortable or conflicted. There were plenty of hints in the chapter, along with the word ‘triggering’, for us to know that Loren either had something terrible happen with his family or comes from a difficult family background. Once again I am grateful he has such a solid friend group. The good news is that Loren wants more with Jay. He is trying. But this chapter showed that it’s beginning to wear on Jay. Loren has a long way to go if he views jealousy as an unnatural feeling for himself or the desire to be snuggled as somehow not ok. While I could see the reluctance to meet Jay’s family at the holidays, Loren’s inability to commit to the relationship at the four month point by defining who they are to each other is further proof there is a lot in Loren’s past that has to be worked through.

This passage from Nora, who is unfortunately bound to secrets, shows Dante's family is involved and aware of much more than is being told: "Yes. Your grandmother told me the truth of Artri House before she died. She worried another generation would pass by without a resolution for Ryuzo. The moment your grandmaster discovered I knew about the warning, and why it exists, he locked the secrets away with his fire,” Nora said on a sigh." It explains why Nora seems to have insights into Tani. Kinon has direct influence on this family and Artri House. Why? He's admitted to giving power to Dante, but not the reasoning behind that gift. Hopefully when the grandmaster and Dante's father return, more will be learned. It's never a good sign when your mother tells you to wait until your father gets home, but in this case, we should be in for some clues as to why the secrets have been locked away. Best part of this chapter is the interplay between Dante and Tani. It's an optimistic sign that Dante can admit to himself he feels a sense of longing for Tani.

This chapter does an exceptional job of building on the last. The two visits from the Septum, and their conversations with or about Tani are needed pieces to the much larger puzzle. The following passage from Eren reminds of what Tani is up against: “Loving a mortal is not why he is in the mortal realm,” Eren said. “Choosing to bind his soul to a fleeting life is the reason why. What if all Ekhos start doing the same? Do you understand the repercussions? We would have more Ekhos choosing to live here in the mortal realm. Changing fates of mortal lives—” It is interesting that Tani is a Fox Lord, yet even though he has no real contact with his mother she seems aware of all that happens to him or involves him.

If you are fortunate to have loved or been loved deeply, wholly, completely, and absolutely or merely recognize the intimate power of two people joining, each of these selections gives physical presence and a voice to the experience. Lucky is the man who is loved by this author.

Late to the comment party. I read it again because even though I was exhausted by the time I was able to first read it, the chapter was a wonderful balm. This read through has me thinking about communication. Jay, as with most everything else, is exceptional at internal dialogue. He seems to know when he’s had enough, and how to mentally regroup. When he realizes some major differences between him and Loren, he doesn’t seek to change Loren, just views it as a challenge towards the end goal of marriage. Instead of getting mad about the text rather than conversation about Loren’s career, he calmly encourages Loren to communicate with him, almost treating him like a scared colt. (Yep, couldn’t resist a horse reference.) Loren beginning his media presence at around 14, because if that was a line launch time he must have started a tad younger to first gain followers, is telling. He has essentially learned to deal with most interactions through a literal lens. Thank goodness for his friends! It really must be almost impossible to give up that screen between him and Jay. The HOURS of ‘just’ kissing is the absolute best intimate communication I can imagine for these two right now. Just perfect.

I’m with Owen and the other commenters wondering if Domogarov’s defection isn’t more of a planned long game on the part of the Russians. Last chapter I joked they could act stupidly, but frankly I worry much more about the sneaky-smart tactics. A father’s love for his children would cause him endure a lot. What if once the device was given to his superior Domogarov was given this route as his only ‘choice’? Maybe I’m overthinking it all. He’s certainly enamored with CJ. Perhaps it’s all just as he has told CJ and Domogarov has nothing left for him in Russia.

I can only speak for myself…. but what if we are waiting for YOUR comments?! I tend to guess wrong a lot, but consider that half the fun. 😉 I love reading what others have to say and hearing their insights. I agree with your comments about Jay; he does seem like the whole package and that would be a bit daunting. But everyone has flaws so my guess is we will be hearing of Jay’s at some point. The neat thing to me is that both Jay and Loren have really solid friendships and each core group of friends compliment each other in some way. Meaning, everyone brings something to the friendship table. It was great learning more about Loren’s group in this chapter. He commented how his friends could see through to the real him. My guess is that will be important down the line. But then, I did mention that I tend to guess wrong! 🙃

Jay is amazingly adept at setting personal boundaries. It is most likely one of the reasons he has become such a successful athlete. As an influencer, Loren’s boundaries are naturally much more of a gray area. It’s just a part of that business. It’s good for Loren to realize that it is important to know and hold firm boundaries, as well as to come to the realization that perhaps some that he has set for himself aren’t in his own best interest. Jay has never veered from what he expects from Loren. When Jay gave Loren the ‘work, work, … Jay at the bottom scenario’ he was most likely thinking Loren prioritizes work over personal life. And even though Jay doesn’t exactly know what Loren does for a living, he never asserts his football star status. Jay merely asks for the same level of commitment from Loren that he is willing to give. That is a very attractive quality in a person. I enjoyed getting to know Corey a bit better. Up until now Loren’s friends were just hanging out, drinking, fan-geeking over the football players and giving each other sass. This chapter let us see what makes this group tight. Corey is not just a great friend but an important part of Loren’s business. Which Loren runs pretty impressively!

Seems like Loren is starting to truly fall for Jay in spite of trying not to. The conversation about sexualization is telling. There’s nothing more humbling than being faced with values that you realize are also important to you, but aren’t upholding for yourself. Not sure if Loren is quite there yet, but his quiet contemplation shows he is beginning to reconsider some of his life choices. And just like his past realization that there are certain brands that no amount of money will garner his support, Loren seems to have started the reimagining of how he could be an influencer without sexualizing himself. Sometimes it takes someone we really care about to help us become our better selves.

For starting out so funny, the chapter turned extremely tense. Spike has swagger, that’s for sure. But I am with Oz, there is so much that could go wrong. It won’t take CJ doing something stupid, the Russians are plenty skilled at that. I am curious about what Domogarov has to say to CJ.