Wombat Bill

@NimirRaj - I’m jumping to conclusions based on very little evidence. - I love it when you jump to conclusions, it shows me options I may not have thought of. Entertains me as much as I hope the story entertains you. This would leave Virginia free to be with Desmond and I’m sure she’d be given plenty of money in the case of a divorce if that’s one of her concerns. Tempting thought. @chris191070 - I think Alice already knows about Justin and Craig doing nude catering. This seems a popular opinion - a revelation will be made soon. @Summerabbacat - She has taken Jessica "under her wing", providing her with much needed female companionship, and the wisdom of an older woman. Hey! Leave the emotional writing to me. I just felt a bit misty eyed. This latest statement to Desmond, and her recent discussion with Thomas' when she referred to him being the "son she never had", - Maybe she has been hiding her son ‘In plain sight’ @ReaderPaul - Hmmm. Child "we -- I never had." Did Mrs. P. find herself pregnant with Desmond's baby after they had stopped being lovers, and have an abortion? OMG, could Jared be her long lost son. @Wombat Bill There are so many ways this could go with Desmond and Virginia. For now, I feel the rekindle will be just a slow smolder.

At the end of a summer day, Gran would often take her G & T out into the coolness of the garden to relax and enjoy the sights and smells of her garden. Sometimes when the boys saw her from the kitchen window they would take their beers out and join her. This way the three became very close. On one of these occasions Gran announced that she was tired of being alone most days and had decided to do something about it. “You know, sometimes I talk to my plants. But the rude buggers never tal

@Summerabbacat said - I think he was more admired by those on the left of the political spectrum than by those in his own party. This will be explored in future chapters. I would like him home delivered to me for my exclusive pleasure and adoration. Do you think you could arrange that for me. - He lives at Kingsford, perhaps you could pop round for some afternoon delight. @chris191070 - So we see Juanito true colours, at least Andy was wise to him.- Are you sure he wasn’t just kidding as he claimed. @ReaderPaul- I do wonder about the motives of Mr. P. Something does not seem right.- That’s because he may turn out to be on the left. See @Summerabbacat above. The hints for the next chapter indicate multiple fascinating happenings. - Maybe girls behaving badly. @NimirRaj- I’m curious if Mr. Price has feelings for Andy beyond sex & friendship which he now might be interested in pursuing. - He does have his reasons. I hope Gran doesn’t want a job in catering... - Could be, remember in Part 1, chapter 39 when Gran asks - “Oh speaking of your work, I’ve been meaning to ask about that.” “You know what we do Gran.” “Well not exactly. I know you cook and Justin serves but I’ve never seen you two working together. Sometime I would like to attend one of your functions.”

When Andy and Juanito got to Andy’s home, they had the place to themselves as Jared was staying at the Price’s. “This is a pretty smart place you have here Andy. They must pay you well at the jewellers.” “I can’t complain, but this is not my place, I share with the owner, but Jared’s rarely here these days. He mostly lives at the Price’s place in Caste Hill and only comes home occasionally on his days off.” “Does everybody you know work for the Prices.” “We are a pretty close

You guys constantly amaze me by your character interpretations and their motivations. While generally I take your comments as positive, sometimes I feel a little disappointed in myself that I didn't think of what you suggest when writing the story. However, I take it as a compliment when @Summerabbacat says "I think this is what makes @Wombat Bill's story telling so entertaining and compelling. He invariably evokes a strong reaction from his readers, and is in the case, our reactions are not always the same." I will not explain my reasons why certain characters react in certain ways, although I often have set reasons, as I don't think it is a writer's job to dictate. It is my job to present and your job to interpret, so well done to you all. @ReaderPaul and @Summerabbacat, one of you may be right. @chris191070, We have very strict visa conditions in Australia. Juanito's status will be revealed. @NimirRaj, you said "Nothing is ever simple for these guys" Thank you, the worse thing I could do as a writer would be bore you. Regarding Juanito - there is an alternative version of his story. If you wish to read it, you can find it in my blog "Wombat Bill's Out Takes" .

Edward’s apology dinner was finally arranged for the first weekend when all were expected to be available on a Saturday night. Edward was in a flap all day preparing the meal and setting the most beautiful table he could. He used all the best crockery and glassware and even purchased a floral centrepiece for the table. Romel was in charge of drinks and welcoming the guests as they arrived. Just before the guests were due to arrive Edward did a final check of his table for nine. A few

For my international readers, although I'm sure the problem is universal, especially throughout western society I will explain a little of our recent history. In 2013, our Prime Minister Julia Gillard established what we call a Royal Commission into child abuse in institutions throughout Australia, A Royal commission is an inquiry into a specific matter usually headed by a retired judge or some such suitable qualified person. We have had many Royal Commissions in recent years, usually they last for six to twelve months, but this RC lasted FIVE years. There was hardly an institution that deals with children in this country that was not called up. That included Churches, schools, orphanages, social organisations likes sports clubs, scouts, pony clubs etc. The accusations and stories told ranged from disturbing to outrageous. The worst kept secrets in our nation were aired publicly. But, unfortunately very few people went to jail. A few perpetrators were given up as scapegoats, but those that continually moved priests around once they became known or simply ignored what was happening under their noses got off unchallenged. One of them has a very high position in the Vatican. It should be noted that not all victims were male. In fact child abuse happens to more females, but for some reason, homosexual acts get more publicity. I recall when the Cardinal, that still works in the Vatican, was giving evidence live from Rome to the RC in Sydney, was asked about a specific meeting, many years before when he was a bishop, in which the minutes showed a particular priest was suspect. When asked why he did nothing, he replied "It did not pique my interest." I think that says it all.

A few days later, they had not heard anything from the police or from Brendan, so they assumed he must still be in custody. That night on the evening news it was reported that the only suspect in the toilet bashing case had been formally charged and refused bail. A blurred image of the suspect was shown in the report and his name was revealed publicly for the first time. The whole household heaved a joint sigh of relief. During this time Craig had kept busy with business matters so that Jus

Brendan came in and headed straight for the bathroom. When Jessica called out to him he replied “Hi Honey, just need to clean up a bit.” Jessica was almost stunned that he had called her honey as he had not referred to her in a loving way for many years. She went into the bathroom and found him washing his hands and arms. They were cut, bruised and bloody. He also had blood splashed on his overalls. “What happened to you? Let me help clean you up.” “Oh it’s nothing much.” “Here le

@ReaderPaul, I look forward to hearing about it, perhaps even a pic. @Summerabbacat, What a great suggestion, or maybe Gran and Edward as a dynamic duo to take down Brendan. @chris191070, Was that you I heard bidding on Justin?

The auction was held at a function centre which had been set up with a raised runway down the centre of the room like a fashion parade. There was standing room only around the runway and small bar height tables and stools around the perimeter of the room. An auctioneer’s stand was set to one side. The auctioneer was Carol Donnergan from an inner city agency. The auction was in three parts. Part one was a silent auction where bids were submitted in writing. The bachelors paraded in dinner su

@Summerabbacat, you say red herring, I wonder, is it? Glad you like the image and that Justin is your favourite. @chris191070, Yes happy Grans are good for any family. On the other hand grump grans can be very destructive. @NimirRaj, Don't judge Edward too harshly. Until the dinner outburst, he had been the model of discretion. Give him a chance to revert to that. @ReaderPaul , you've probably tried it yourself. Let me know when your read the chapter.

A few days later Justin was home on his own while Craig was out at suppliers sourcing specialties for the auction catering. Justin had spoken to a few of the bachelors he had recruited but was otherwise just having a lazy morning and had not bothered to dress. He was just getting around the house free-balling, when he heard a knock at the back door. He knew instantly who it was. Craig’s grandmother was the only person who came to the back door. He called out “Coming” while he ran to the bedroom

While Craig was out, Justin took a call from Cynthia Broderick. Justin knew her well as the organiser of the Doctors’ wives’ cocktail parties. Craig had told him that they were one of his earliest clients and since Justin started working with Craig they had not only been their most regular clients but also the most demanding on Justin to provide new thrills every time. Justin had grown to like Cynthia because she trusted him to strike the right balance of daring and good taste. She had always ex

When they arrived home, Craig rang Edward and they agreed to put their differences aside for the moment, after Edward apologised and said he was arranging a dinner to formalise the apology. Craig said “What’s this about wanting work for a friend?” “He’s more than a friend really, he’s family.” “I didn’t know you had family, other than your mother.” “He’s Romel’s cousin, so he’s family to me.” “See Edward you can be nice when you try.” “I’ll take that as a compliment

Juanito's role will be different to his original role in the story, now that he will be working with Justin. I will put the chapters from his original role on my "Out Takes" blog.

Maybe more Hitchcock then Christie. I remember my mother's comments about his TV show - "There's never any bloody explanation at the end."

Funny you should ask this question today - I'm putting together some ideas for part 3, that will be called 'An Appetite for More' and Desmond will be there when Mrs P's plumbing needs attention. When this story was originally published I was accused of having too many characters at the end.Since then I have added six more, mostly by popular demand. Juggling them all does present a problem. The problem is not as might be expected, finding story lines, it is finding a way of them all getting time on stage without long periods between their appearances. Brett & Jeremy as well as Max and Charles seem popular, and Rani had one request, but Daniel none.

I know what you mean. There is a lot of me in one of our characters, but I'm not saying who. No doubt more interesting times ahead from the pen of our author . There will be but don't get overly excited, it's women only at the auction. he may even find a place for himself in this motley group of friends; Juanito will be joining as a permanent character.

“Hi, it’s Andy, I need your advice on something Thomas.” “Sure, what’s happening?” “I had a message from Mr. P this morning, to go to his office for a meeting and it made me a bit nervous.” “What do you think he wants? Is he pressuring you to come back?” “No, not that. I’ve already been to see him and he was quite friendly. He says he’s tired of just calling the agency to get boys now that I don’t do it for him. He doesn’t know who he will get. I used to vet them for him an

Also in chapter 38 are the following clues to confuse you:- Craig says “You bet it has. Any person at any time can jump in front of a train or hang themselves and nobody can do anything to stop it. Why shouldn’t someone, at the end of their life anyway, have the means to slip away peacefully at a time of their choosing. It’s just plain wrong.” Romel says “I know he finished his shift as he handed over the keys of the drug room to me about twenty minutes ago. Maybe he went to visit his Grandfather.” Justin visits Gramps. Justin took the lift up to the palliative care ward and as he stepped out of the lift he saw Craig go into the staff lift, but the doors closed before he could call out to him. He did not move, so not wanting to disturb him, he left and returned to the foyer, where Craig was waiting impatiently. “Where have you been?” demanded Craig” “I went to see your Gramps.” “How was he?” asked Craig “Well he was asleep, but you.....” Justin stopped himself there. “What?” “Oh, nothing, don’t bother.” Justin muttered almost inaudibly. Craig was clearly distracted and took no notice of Justin’s half finished sentence. The two drove home in silence. After arriving home. After his shower Craig came into the kitchen, gave Justin a peck on the cheek, went to the fridge, took out two beers and opened one for each of them. He then raised his bottle to Justin and made a toast saying “Here’s to life and oh, sorry about yesterday.” On Romel's return to the ward. “I need your help with Mrs. Collins in bed 4b. It says here on the drug register that you gave her intravenous meds about an hour ago, but she is still complaining of pain. Romel and Edward “What does he say?” “Wait a minute....Oh his Grandfather has died.” “I’m so sorry to hear that. I did not know him but I know Craig really loved him. It makes me so sad.” “It was expected.” “Why do you say that so coldly?” “Um...he did have a terminal cancer and was weakening by the day.” “How can you sleep at a time like this?” “I’m a professional; I deal with death every day.” “But Craig is family to me and your closest friend and colleague.” “Edward just leave it will you?” “OK, but I think you are more upset by this than you want to let on, so I’ll let you deal with it in your own way.” “Finally!” And of course there is Craig’s dream.

The following morning Romel and Edward just passed each other briefly in the kitchen and bathroom as they both prepared for work. Romel was on day shift and in his first break he phoned his cousin Juanito, hoping to prove Edward’s accusation wrong. “Hi this is Wonder Boy, how do you like it?” “Sorry, I thought this was Juanito’s phone.” “Who’s calling?” “It’s Romel, Juanito’s cousin.” “Sorry, Romel I didn’t realise it was you, my phone does not recognise your number

Craig and Justin’s house-warming dinner party was arranged for their first free weekend after the Price’s party with the usual crowd invited. Raj, Tristan, Romel and Edward all accepted their invitations. A few days later Edward called Craig, “Hi sweetie thanks for the invite, I’ve already confirmed with Justin, but I wanted to let you know I’ve taken it upon myself to invite Andre, I know you don’t mind.” Of course Craig minded, but wasn’t about to admit it to Edward. “Oh that’s thoughtful

Edward was editing his interview with Kim, the sex worker, but was having trouble with it. He was not sure what should be edited out so he called a meeting with Charles, his producer and played the unedited version for him. ** “I know you are a sex worker, but I believe you have a speciality.” “Yes, I’m a blowjob expert. I have been doing it for many years and I have become very good at it.” “So what should I call you?” “My name is Cum, but in polite circles I’m known as

Ah,now @ReaderPaul's comment makes sense. And I just worked out how to do that @ thing for user names. Thanks guys for all your comments and reactions. The motives and the consequences of our characters' actions seem to be very closely scrutinised here. Yesterday, I wrote a new chapter that fits into the story about 10 chapters forward. It was a great example of how characters have a life of their own. I started the chapter with definite ideas about what was going to happen. BUT the conversation between two people went in an entirely different direction and consequently a totally different result. Bloody characters, I wish they'd stick to the script and stop adlibbing.