Summerabbacat

Walter's generosity should not go unrewarded. If Captain Jose were to become aware of Walter's generosity of spirit (he is already aware of his generosity of endowment), he may be inclined to provide Walter with some personal generosity of his own. Hot hot hot, smoking hot.

A small cast, a simple story of friendship, light on melodrama. Beautifully drawn characters placed into a variety of situations. A story steeped in reality, the struggle of a retired man with limited financial means and no support systems in place to make life easier or more bearable. Enter his life a young gay man, self-assured, happily coupled and determined to do right by the older man, thinking he knows what is best for him. What unfolds is a thing of great beauty, a real intergenerational friendship between two very unlikely friends.

"Eric didn't usually stay up to see in the New Year – he'd never seen the point. One year had been pretty much like another – dreary, without hope. He was going to this year. Yes, he'd be in bed, waiting for the church clock to strike, but that was enough. Eric smiled to himself. So many changes in so short a time, and more to come. He couldn't wait for what the New Year would bring." Are these the thoughts of the same old curmudgeon who presented himself at the beginning of this most marvellous of stories. The text in bold, especially astonishing given the solitary life Eric has most likely always led. This thought itself would most likely astonish Eric too. What a spectacular transformation. And Andy, still a little forgetful at times, a memory like a sieve, but what a transformation he has gone through too. His thoughts about the joy he and Adam experienced in the afternoon spent simply with Eric, an indication he has come to appreciate the simpler comforts he has attained from his friendship with Eric. What a journey, ably steered by the Captain of the ship, @northie.

The only thing which could have improved Christmas Day lunch at Andy and Adam's would have been the death of one of the attendees. An alcohol infused seizure or heart attack, or perhaps a homicide, but the latter of course would have resulted in problems for the killer(s). Adam's father is loud, obnoxious and self-opinionated. I assume he was at one stage quite different; if not, why did Adam's mother marry him. I had forgotten that in their leisure time Andy and Adam are enthusiastic cyclists. I hope they are careful and wear a helmet at all times. Mrs Turner appears relatively harmless, but her gossiping ways could be problematic for Eric. The old saying loose lips sink ships comes readily to mind. The intent may not be there, but her gossiping about Andy visiting Eric for reasons unknown might add fuel to the accusations of the young hooligans that Eric is a "fag" or a "paedo". Frankly, both Bella and Mrs Turner need to be on a leash, and the latter muzzled as well. Well it is unanimous @northie, Adam's father is as popular with your readers as he is with Adam and his mother. Perhaps you could "borrow" some poison, or an ancient Mesopotamian dagger or some other unusual weapon from Agatha Christie, to improve Adam's father's appeal.

I find Christmas and Easter both, very upsetting and distressing. As a vegetarian, I am revolted by the horror of both celebrations resulting in the mass slaughter of animals on a much larger scale than usual. In addition, Christmas and its immediate aftermath are a terrible time of year for domestic pets, many of whom are adopted by stupid parents for their children because they look cute, only to be abandoned or surrendered shortly thereafter because they are "too much work". Like many, as I age my patience has decreased, and my tolerance of such gross displays of carnivorous behaviour and neglect of animals is very limited. I find it difficult to watch my fellow humans consume meat and if I smell it then I cannot bear to sit near whoever is eating it. As for people who abuse, neglect or abandon domestic animals, I would not be sad if such people met a horrible end, sooner rather than later. I shall climb off my soapbox now and delight in the simple pleasure Eric derived from two phone calls for Christmas and four Christmas cards. He gave a hint of what his childhood was like, indicating it is not surprising he lacks social skills, self-esteem and a recognition he deserves happiness just like anyone else. A delightful chapter @northie and a thank you for not describing in great detail the food undoubtedly consumed at Andy and Adam's home.

I refuse to use self-service checkouts at the supermarket because I scan too quickly, sometimes the item is not barcoded and the machine has a hissy fit, and the automated voice drives me barking mad. I am prepared to wait in a queue for this reason and to ensure there are jobs in supermarkets for checkout workers. If the supermarket insists I self-serve, then a discount should automatically be applied to my total as I have not contributed to the employment of a checkout staff member. In Australia, my homeland, the two biggest supermarkets we have, have made substantial profits post-COVID, have been investigated, found guilty and heavily fined for dishonest practices, and now are the two most distrusted "brands" in Australia. One also recently tried to force its employees to sign very dodgy work agreements, but the general public was swift in its condemnation of this. Eric's newly established friendship with Brian is already yielding positive results. I was pleasantly surprised Eric allowed himself a treat of a Chelsea Bun to accompany his cup of tea. This story continues to entertain and provoke much discussion, both of which I am very pleased about @northie. Exemplary work from you as always.

As several other readers have commented, the M/M romances Eric is reading can, and certainly for now, are a double-edged sword. He is fascinated to read of gay life and relationships, perhaps giving him a sense of "belonging" to a group, but at the same time they are filling him with a sense of despair, regret and yearning that he has never experienced such things, and at this time of his life never may. Once again beautifully written @northie. Eric has transformed from a grumpy older curmudgeon to a grumpy older curmudgeon who is comforted by a genuine friendship and is willing to step outside his comfort zone, to some extent, buoyed by that genuine friendship.

I hope @Ronyx spares Lucas' life as I think there is some hope for his redemption. I believe his problems stem entirely from his upbringing; as noted by @Fry, he has been subjected to sexual, physical and psychological abuse by members of his own family, quite possibly in one form or another for most of his life. In this chapter he showed some remorse for his treatment of his friends: "He hadn’t meant any harm to any of them, not even Neil. He had always enjoyed the power he had over his smaller friends, but he never intentionally hurt them. He was usually able to intimidate them into doing what he said, so there was no need for threats." I strongly suspect the power Lucas refers to is as the result of the powerlessness he felt each time he was raped by his Uncle. It appears likely he has had to be concerned about where he is going to live too, given his grandmother's frequent reminders he is burden she would prefer not to have and her belittling treatment of him. I doubt Lucas has ever heard "I love you" from anyone. If Lucas lives and if any good results from his attempted murder, it may be he will be forced to accept the care and compassion of his friends, and will realise what genuine friendship means, particularly if any one or more of them assists in his physical rehabilitation. I wonder if Mr Collins might become Lucas' guardian as he certainly needs to be removed from the "care" of his grandmother. As for Uncle Raymond, prison for the attempted murder and repeated sexual assault of Lucas, the latter of which will hopefully be discovered by whoever is treating him for the beating he has sustained.

I only read this because you wrote it @Lee Wilson. Not a fan of poetry, at least not that I am aware of, but this was simply delightful. I have to confess it moved me and I shed it tear or two (how unlike me) as it captured the struggle and ultimate triumph of a gay man in nine verses. Well done.

Something as simple as newly planted flowering plants or a new hedge can bring such joy, the beauty of nature a soothing tonic for frazzled nerves or anxiety. One thing Eric and Andy will need to be mindful of are those teenage hooligans; I can easily imagine them delighting in destroying or at least damaging the gardens. If such destruction does take place they and their mind numbingly stupid and ignorant parents should be made to pay for restitution, and if they cannot pay, take it out of their benefits. What a joyous chapter @northie. A few simple improvements to Eric's life have made such a difference to his wellbeing and temperament.

I may have to investigate this author @Gary L. I read her Wikipedia entry and how she was lauded as one of the most underrated authors as nominated by several literary critics.

I was hoping for it to be effective against humans only so that: Ladies and gentlemen Please welcome President Elect, Felix Sylvester Catt

In Kate's song @Lee Wilson the intention of the experiment was to develop a sound to kill someone, long distance if necessary, thus it could be used effectively in warfare. No chance of plagiarism, the "comparison" was an experiment gone wrong. Of course, any excuse to post a song by Kate Bush is good enough for me too. If you watch the video you may recognise quite a few of the "cast" if you are a fan of British comedy.

It's like a zombie apocalypse @Lee Wilson. Ironic that the only people to survive are those with cancer, and the chemical rids them of the cancer. I have to ask Lee, was the chemical developed to be effective against humans only, or will it kill all animals regardless of species?

Dare I say this story already illustrates what you are well know for @Lee Wilson, an extraordinarily vivid imagination. Due to the efficacy of the chemical developed with the intention to kill cancer cells, I can see it falling into the wrong hands with devastating effects felt worldwide. Quick, call Avery Noonan Sr. The scenario depicted in this chapter reminded me of the outcome of an experiment gone wrong as depicted in Kate Bush's wonderful 1986 single Experiment IV.

I can imagine Eric thriving with a site like GA available to him and stories as good as this one to read @northie. Ordering his groceries online would also help him enormously due to his arthritis and problematic balance at times. This chapter I believe cemented the friendship between Eric and Andy, moving the dynamic of their relationship to a more even footing. I think Andy is beginning to realise the benefit he is deriving from his friendship with Eric too, it is not all one way.

I had forgotten that scene, very comparable. I have found many 20 somethings, especially women, are incredibly shallow, self-absorbed and totally contemptuous of others who do not believe they should be the centre of attention due to their youth and misconceived beauty. Hopefully the "bite" will be deep and very painful @CincyKris.

Eric is single and does not have any children. This combined with the fact he is gay and poor, makes him largely invisible in society. Fortunately, he has Andy and by default Adam, and to a lesser extent Hazel Thompson, who have now shown some degree of concern for him. On the flip side he has the obnoxious young hooligans who have taunted and tormented him based on the ignorance of their stupid parent(s). Hopefully Andy is able to sort them out before they harm Eric physically. If it means Andy has to harm them, so be it. Eric's first kiss. I dare say Eric's sexual contact with a male is likely to be very limited to, perhaps only himself and his imagination. Both Andy and Eric have been give a wake up call. I expect Andy will take steps to ensure it does not happen again, steps which Eric may have to begrudgingly accept. Just so very good @northie; an outstanding read.

The teenagers whom Andy caught in Eric's yard are a by-product of their ignorant parents. Retrospective abortion for all of them. If Eric requires hospitalisation or is gravely ill Adam should approach the estate owner immediately with a demand Eric's home be improved immediately or else legal action will be taken against him immediately. Excellent work again @northie.

The digital age has completely bypassed Eric, as it has many others. I am reasonably competent digitally and do much online, however, what incenses me is that for many interactions choice has been removed from the equation. People like Eric (and my 83 year old mother) should not be disadvantaged because they do not interact digitally. My mother was given a very basic mobile phone but refused to use it. My brother and I bought her an iPad which she uses, but struggles with if it does something odd (understandably, I hate the wretched things). She could no sooner send an e-mail than she could fly to the moon, and she should not be ridiculed or excluded because of this. I think whoever attempts to assist Eric with using a computer is going to need an endless supply of patience, understanding and a calm soothing voice, as much for themselves as for Eric. I was pleasantly surprised at Adam's vehement opposition to online shopping. I do some shopping online but only purchase what I know will not need to be returned unless it is faulty. I think post-COVID waste has skyrocketed because many buy virtually everything online and if it is not the right size or is the wrong colour (clothing) just throw it out. We as a species have also "learned" to accept that electrical goods and many other items are not built to last anymore or "go out of fashion" in a short while, therefore adding more rubbish to landfill. This also incenses me (I am a bit of curmudgeon myself at times, but am only 61). Another enjoyable chapter @northie, giving we readers a glimpse into what makes Adam and Andy horny (amongst other things).

I am not saddened by your "ignorance" @Gary L because I have never seen the expression before either. I assumed, as did you it seems, Graham was being facetious, there was not a skerrick of humility in Venetia's boast of having hired a cook to prepare the food for the luncheon. It appears the only thing modest about Venetia is her dress sense, fortunately. I had a great laugh at Vince's indelicate topic of discussion, prison reform, with the "designated" second Mrs Philpott, Rowena. She proved to be as unassuming as Vince, much to the horror of Venetia and the dreadful Tania and Rolf. I loved Vince's not so subtle dig at Rolf for his impertinent question to Graham regarding remuneration for his poetry. What ghastly people to have as dinner companions. Graham's invitation to Rowena startled her at first, until his disclaimer she was not being considered for the position of the second Mrs Philpott. If Peter is invited and attends I wonder if Rowena will get any vibes of the relationship between the two. Does Rowena have any gaydar? The best thing I imagine which will emerge from the luncheon is that Vince will not be invited again, or at least not invited accompanied by Graham, whom I believe Venetia considers is corrupting Vince, or her ideal of him at least. A rather amusing chapter @Robert Hugill. I imagine Venetia affronted by Vince and his appalling dig at Rolf, and his most unsavoury discussion of prison reform. She is also likely mystified and disappointed with Rowena, assuming a doctor's wife or in this case ex-wife, would be far more elitist than what she apparently is. And I agree with @Gary L, as is usually the case, another classic @Robert Hugill.

The arrival of Eric at Adam's workplace and Sarah's reaction to him reminded me of a scene from my favourite comedy, Absolutely Fabulous. The scene is one in which Edina is browsing in an upmarket shop or art gallery (I cannot remember which), and as she leaves the shop/gallery worker looks disdainfully at her, to which Edina responds with "you only work in a shop you know so you can drop the attitude". I so wanted Eric to make some bitchy remark to Sarah, but that would have been totally out of character for him. Eric's observation of Sarah's look of disgust or contempt when he, Andy and Adam left together, was very interesting. If his observation was accurate and Adam ever becomes aware of any homophobic judgment by Sarah, she may well find herself without a job. Adam's interaction with Eric although relatively brief, was very interesting to observe. Although he is clearly well educated and from a monied family, he appeared to have no difficulty conversing with Eric, and his kindness towards and interest in Eric seemed genuine rather than forced. Given his profession it may be an act which he has perfected by necessity, but I don't think it was. I also got the impression Adam will follow through with the estate owner regarding the poor condition of Eric's home. He appears to be someone you would not want to get on the bad side of or attempt to deceive. A delightful chapter @northie. The warmth of friendship being offered by Andy and now Adam appears to be chipping away at Eric's long established wall of protection. He is as one reader described, a curmudgeon, but a curmudgeon who is aware of his ill-tempered and frosty or hostile persona, and is seemingly prepared to address this because of his growing respect for both Andy and Adam.

A chapter filled with significant personal growth for both Andy and Eric, and the positive outcome it is having on their relationship, which is beginning to resemble a friendship, something sorely missing in Eric's life. I found the following observations by Andy profound, particularly when compared to their first meeting: "Had Eric ever had anyone special? Andy thought the answer was almost certainly 'no'. That hurt. Him and how many others of his generation?" "The old man's entire shopping for the week, plus some extras, came to less than a third of the cost of what he and Adam spent on food alone for the same period. Checking Eric's financial entitlements was top of the list of his priorities. He could only hope that the old man agreed." "Andy smiled at him. “Why not? If you're gay, that's what romance is, isn't it? Two blokes? There's masses of it online, and you can buy it in a digital format pretty easily, but that's not really any use to you, is it? I'll ask round and see if anyone has any books they would lend you.” Andy is to be commended for "walking a mile in Eric's shoes", recognising that things he takes for granted are unavailable to Eric, for many and varied reasons. And what of Eric's growth, perhaps even more significant in comparison: "Andy finished his inspection of the leaky cold water tap. “Yes, please. While it's brewing, I'll just have a quick look round outside, if that's OK?” “You'll be admiring the garden then?” The old man sounded faintly amused." "Andy noticed his reluctance. “I think we should be able to catch lunch with Adam. Wouldn't you like to meet him?” Eric smiled to himself. Now that sounded better. Another free lunch? He looked at Andy with a faint glint in his eye. “You mean that good-looking lad who's been daft enough to get engaged with you? I'd be glad to meet him.” They both laughed. Eric couldn't remember laughing in a long time." Eric showed a sense of humour, which to date had been completely absent. His cheeky reference to Andy admiring the garden a sign Andy was forgiven for the remarks he made at the first home visit. Eric's acceptance of transportation and assistance to do his grocery shopping, and even more significantly a free lunch, was in stark contrast to their first meeting when he insisted on paying for the chicken curry Andy bought for him. This concession to accept Andy's generosity has surprised me the most as Eric bristled noticeably at the thought of being "charity" for Andy. Eric's final thought that he could not remember laughing in a long time was profoundly moving, moreso because it is so believable given Eric's financial and personal circumstances, and his overall persona. I once again harked back to Madonna's lyric "I am usually drawn to sadness". An outstanding chapter @northie, beautifully and authentically written; one which promises much for both Andy and Eric, a mutually beneficial friendship forming. The intergenerational friendship between two vastly different gay men is also one which begged to be told, and thus far your telling of it is a delight to witness.

"He stopped talking, abruptly. Something had changed, He sensed the mood had darkened, somehow. Andy looked over to Eric to see if anything was the matter. The old man was sitting there, opposite him, with tears welling up, and a look of such yearning and loss on his face that made Andy's heart bleed." This is the moment Andy truly understands what Eric has missed which he Andy takes for granted. A breakthrough moment for both, with Eric appreciating the comfort and joy Andy can bring to his life in the simplest of ways. A heartwarming and joyful chapter @northie, one which read for the second time was as moving as it was on the first occasion

The first meeting between Tony and Aaron did not go according to plan, at least not Tony's plan. The wall of Berlin remains standing, but given Aaron's apparent after meeting tears, there may be a crack, even the slightest of cracks, in the wall. I have to wonder, who was Aaron really angry with the most with the most, Tony or himself. I think perhaps the latter, even if only to a small extent. Tim's change of heart, and Scott's apparent desire for a reconciliation between Aaron and Tony augurs well for the future. If Justin was to also suggest a reconciliation to Aaron, I think it would be enormously helpful to "the cause". A somewhat sad chapter @Mark Ponyboy Peters, but it is unrealistic for we readers to think that 5 years of angst, upset and hurt on the part of Aaron, could be swept away at the first meeting between him and Tony. Time is on their side for now as both are still young and healthy. Cyndi's wise words support a possible reconciliation. .