Summerabbacat

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. .

Adam calmly and without criticism pointed out the errors Andy made, mostly resulting from the assumptions he made, and suggested how he could resolve them. I particularly admired his reference to online ordering. Andy to be fair to him, was already beginning to question his behaviour at the first meeting, which is why he appeared to readily accept Adam's suggestions and advice. Andy's heart is in the right place, he was perhaps blinded by his own enthusiasm and pride in his charity. If Eric is able to accept Andy's apology a friendship between the two is a possibility. An excellent post-mortem on Adam's part @northie; just what Andy needed to help him accept his shortcomings at the first meeting and move forward in a more constructive manner.

The first meeting between Eric and Andy was not a complete disaster @northie, but it was a disappointment for both, primarily because each had unrealistic expectations of the other and what the first meeting should achieve. I think as many have stated, Andy has likely had little experience relating to people significantly older than himself, particularly those with limited financial means. He made a number of assumptions about Eric and his life experiences, some of them understandable and most, if not all of them demonstrating a lack of awareness of anyone having any limitations in life, whether those limitations be financial, physical and/or mental. It clearly did not occur to Andy Eric may be vegetarian, hence the unsuitability of the chicken curry he purchased; or Eric may struggle with opening the packaging or reading the undoubtedly small print of the instructions for cooking or heating; or may struggle to properly digest the meal. His assumption Eric would possess, let alone know how to operate, even the most basic technology is understandable as he knows no better, but was irritating nevertheless. If a second and additional meetings take place I am hopeful Andy will recognise Eric may be hard of hearing at times, may have reduced eyesight, may be less mobile than he is, may not be able to afford or have the desire to own the things he takes for granted, and just may be acutely aware of, and ashamed or embarrassed by some of his limitations. Having said all this, Eric also needs to find his voice and inform Andy of his limitations and not assume he will recognise them. Eric's biggest "mistake" was thinking Andy would immediately like him, miraculously improve his self-esteem and give him a reason or reasons to want to live rather than just exist, and resolve any and all of his problems. A wonderful chapter nevertheless @northie, one which illustrated the vast gap between Andy and Eric, attributable to but not limited to their ages, financial means and past experiences.

I hope it is one in which you have taken into account all dietary limitations e.g. gluten-free, peanut-free, fat-free and taste-free, or at least vegetarian.

LOL. I tried to work that song into my comment, but I just could not find a home for it.

I thought this may have been the case.

Very brief @Lee Wilson, but introduced the inevitable adoption of Krystof. Methinks you might have a new story on the boil, or even already well cooked and waiting to be served for our consumption.

Predictably, I liked the songs like Legs which were danceable, and I loved the now dated videos.

I thought this was the case. I hope Chris "tells" you to allow him to give birth and explore the best way he or someone else can raise the child, but I recognise it will not be easy to write or at least write with the authenticity it deserves.

Similarly to @CincyKris, I am giving this story and its two follow up stories a re-read as @CincyKris suggested I might enjoy them, and there was no indication I had done so previously. I was disappointed to discover the first time I read the three stories I have only rated the chapter content and commented on the latter chapters of Never Too Late To Believe. I am now an avid commenter as I feel if the story is something I enjoy, I ought to make the effort to provide this feedback to the author who freely donates their story for my enjoyment. I also like observing the banter which often develops between commenters, particularly those who often comment on many of the same stories. First chapter second time around is as enjoyable and melancholic as it was on first reading. Eric is perhaps a little bitter life has been neither kind to nor exciting for him, but he acknowledges, or at least appears to, this is largely due to his social awkwardness and limited financial circumstances. There were several times I recognised characteristics or beliefs Eric holds similar to myself, which I like Eric try to suppress or deny, particularly to myself. I live in Sydney, Australia, @northie which rarely if ever gets as cold as where Eric lives. I find anything less than 25 or 26°C I am wearing at least a light jacket of some sort and am prone to winter "blues", therefore I cannot imagine how poor Eric retains any zest for life when the weather is as bleak as it apparently is where he lives. A most enjoyable and beautifully written first chapter @northie, providing much insight into Eric's limited circumstances and experiences, and his simple dreams and desires for his future. I distinctly recall when I first read this story, the song Love Tried To Welcome Me by Madonna, from her Bedtimes Stories album, and particularly its lyric "I am usually drawn to sadness" played in my mind frequently. It once again popped into my head when I read this first chaper.

I neglected to mention in my first comment @Mark Ponyboy Peters, one of the reasons I was so keen to write a comment on this chapter was to acknowledge what a terrific job your editor and beta-reader @MJC does. There is rarely a spelling mistake, missed word, incorrect character name or any other types of errors in your stories, some of the credit which must go to @MJC I assume. Personally I find an error-free or low-error story easier to read because I don't become distracted. So, well done @MJC.

I only read this story @northie because of the reference to one of my favourite Brits, Kate Bush, in its precis. When the story started I wondered if Kate, the character, may have been Kate Bush, and Daniel, the character, her husband Danny McIntosh. I soon realised this was not the case. The mathematical equations were a complete mystery to me and the story was absurd, which is why I enjoyed it so. Quite a number of my favourite Kate Bush songs made themselves heard reading this, and not just Pi from Aerial. Get Out Of My House and Hammer Horror were obvious, but much of The Dreaming and Hounds Of Love albums swirled in my head, the former especially because Kate described it as her "she's gone barking mad" album. Most enjoyable read.

I have to say I did not note this @Mark Ponyboy Peters and @Al Norris, but I assumed it was a Catholic parish because he is addressed as Father Santos and because Kieran, Charlie, Katherine and Toby attended Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Do other churches address their priests as Father and conduct a service called Mass? I was "raised" Presbyterian, but long ago gave up organised religion for a number of reasons. @Al Norris we do have the Anglican Church of Australia (Church of England) which has about 2.5 million followers and the Lutheran Church of Australia which has about 30,000 followers, whilst the Catholic Church of Australia has 5.887 million followers (statistics from Wikipedia).

This is a @Lee Wilson "lite" story, and this is not a bad thing, it is just different from the majority of his stories. The story begins with the death of the protagonist, Kevin Lewiston's, new boyfriend, his mother and father, killed by a drunk driver, cancer and in a school shooting respectively. Not to make light of these deaths, but they are not described in any detail and essentially happen "off camera". They are however, the catalyst for a drastic change in Kevin's life and the journey he takes to follow a rock band, one of whose members he is desperately in lust with. Kevin faces the usual ups and downs in life, but leads a relatively peaceful and largely contented life. A delightful story seen through the lens of 18 year old Kevin. There is the usual homophobia, although very lite in comparison to many of Lee's other stories, and few if any life or career threatening disasters, which can often be found in a story by this prolific writer.

Dare I say @Lee Wilson, that this story, much like an Old Fashioned Song, brought Joy To The World, well at least the world of GA. You are clearly a self-sufficient One Man Band, that much is as clear as Black And White.

I am exceptionally pleased to observe that a number of my fellow readers commented on the excessive punitive damages Kevin had to pay for damage to his former home. Like @Bft I was surprised the 'crime' was considered a felony, but perhaps unlike @Bft I was outraged it was considered so. I have little or no doubt Kevin could have tortured and murdered the landlord's pet cat or dog (if he had one or more), and it would not have been considered a felony, but he shits, vomits and pees on material things and it is considered a felony. WTF? That is fucking infuriating (and I have little doubt @Lee Wilson that if not the law, it would be very close to it). As for the $10,000.00 extorted from Kevin, why was this not challenged. I hope the landlord bought himself some expensive seafood and alcohol with the proceeds of his extortion, which had the same "laxative" effect as Kevin's recent experience, and the landlord was uncontrollably and repeatedly relieved of his food and alcohol intake, in his bed, up the walls and on the floor of every room in his home. If he had had an ounce of compassion for Kevin and his circumstances I would not be so outraged, but I hope he suffered significantly for his greed and lack of compassion (and I hope the greedy motherfucker does not have the joy of having a companion animal). Add singing to Kevin's talents now. He is becoming a regular little KC, all he has to do now is co-write and co-produce the songs, and he will be shake, shake, shaking his booty all the way to the bedroom and the bank.

The claim of 14" was a little hard to swallow, and certainly would have been for Kevin if it had proven to be true. It may have resulted in more than the dislocation of his shoulder. The food poisoning was drastic. It surprised me that it was the rice rather than the seafood which caused it as seafood is notorious for causing food poisoning if it is at all dodgy. Eric demonstrated his genuine care for the wellbeing of Kevin; he is clearly not just a plaything. The fun continues for cast and readers alike @Lee Wilson.

Kevin had great misfortune prior to meeting Eric, but since that meeting thinks have been on the up-and-up largely. His greatest fortune to date, he escaped his motor vehicle alive after it flipped several times. Eric's affection for Kevin is genuine, he was distraught after learning of Kevin's accident, arranging to be at his bedside as quickly as possible. As is the case more often than not, I agree wholeheartedly with @Gary L's assessment.

Lover, roadie, keyboardist, carpet defecator. Is there no limit to Kevin's talents @Lee Wilson? The reference to ZZTop prompted me to listen to Eliminator when I went to bed in the early hours of this morning. I was never a fan, not the type of music I usually like, but Legs was a great song, and Gimme All Your Lovin' was quite enjoyable too. The huge crowd at Dallas understandably freaked Kevin out, something which I believe Eric will be more concerned about its effect on Kevin, rather than the effect on the band.

I have just re-read the scene in chapter 15 where it is confirmed Deputy Wallace is Chris' father. I have to say it is one of, if not the most moving scene you have ever written in the stories which I have read. I am very pleased you are at least thinking of making his role in this story bigger than originally intended. I cannot recall if his pregnancy was confirmed, but if he is pregnant it would be an opportunity to write something very challenging. I am sure you would be equal to the task as you have written his character so sensitively and respectfully to date.