Summerabbacat

Not always @Cane23. In recent years we have had temperatures between 18°C and 23°C. As a child/teenager it was usually 35-40°C with high humidity and this little gay boy loved it.

Unfortunately you are well and truly fucked @Lee Wilson. Now on a "positive" note, there are very few stories I recommend and indicate they are 'Unique'. Of the stories I have written by your good self, I have given that "acclaim" to this story, Manny Needs A Nanny and Heckle Me Not (Lest Ye Die - Laughing).

Hello, Caney This is S. A.C., Caney It's so nice to have you back where you belong You're lookin' swell, Caney......

I hate cold weather and especially snow, but this is hot, hot, hot @KKirk. I could almost be persuaded to tolerate such weather if a hot little firecracker like Gil was my reward for tolerance. Not a fan of Christmas and all its trappings and waste, but the mantlepiece decorations are quite attractive. The setting with two couples and one dejected lover made me think of Wham's Last Christmas, one of my favourite Christmas-themed songs of all time. Anything written and sung by George is bound to impress me and this one was certainly no exception. Liking this already @KKirk.

And who said "romance is dead". You are a true romantic @Cane23, always looking to matchmake the lonely. Dare I say a genuine Dolly Levi.

I made the comment in an earlier chapter @Gary L "bubble bubble toil and trouble" which their behaviour in this chapter reinforced ten fold. Barb is the ring leader, rather an appropriate abbreviation of her given name one might say. Methinks she is jealous because she isn't getting any. And Therese finds herself in a drought now too, with Dribble not even producing so much as a Trickle apparently. Ralph is obviously liked by his employees given how readily Beth stepped in to help Nolan and Verne, and of course Ivan had previously volunteered to let it all hang out for Morrie. The development of the male-male relationships has been one of the standout highlights of all your works published to date @Robert Hugill and this story is no exception. Is it any wonder you have been achieving all those top 10 "hits". The Hugillverse continues to delight its observers. And if Ralph ever gets sick of Nolan he can send him my way so long as he promises to cook a dish like tofu chowder. It sounds delicious. I have just looked up a recipe for clam chowder and I could even make a vegan version by using the tofu, vegan butter and oat milk I buy. Yum.

Nurse Nancy Nosex and Rebecca Renkin (love that alliteration @empath, very John Waters) are both in need of an attitude adjustment at the very least. Both were rude and behaved like the bullies they so clearly are. I would not be at all surprised if Rebecca was off to a meeting at her local chapter of Moms For Liberty. What a joyless c#$t she is, and what poison she is already filling her daughter's mind with. It may be purely coincidental, but I have to wonder if Rosa's family name is Ramos (more alliteration) and her Juan with the "cute little butt" is now a Detective. Speaking of Detective Juan Ramos, I can only but speculate Thomas' former bedroom in Uncle Charlie's house has been the scene of something horrific, perhaps on many occasions. Is he part of a paedophile ring and has filmed underage male porn with himself as a co-star, or worse still, a place where he has raped and killed underage boys. I sense and hope Uncle Charlie is going to be in deep shit once the investigation of Thomas' former bedroom is completed. If so, big bad Bubba will be waiting patiently for him inside the Big House. Roger is acutely aware how he has disengaged himself from the small things in life which can bring so much joy. With Thomas joining him to form a family he is already observing how sterile and characterless his home is. @Cane23 commented in the prior chapter how interesting he is finding the slow revelations regarding Roger's life. Like an onion being peeled, each layer of self-protection is slowly coming off to reveal a man who is so much more than just a hotshot lawyer. Outstanding again @empath.

I have but one question to ask @Lee Wilson. What colour was the "fake Loof's" hair? Was it orange by chance? I have only recently posted the video for this fantastic song by The Manhattan Transfer in commentary on another story here on GA, but it is so apt for this chapter and sums up the comments of many, which are not a negative critique of your literary talents Lee, quite the opposite in fact. Take it away Janis.

I usually do not care for hard rock music at all @Lee Wilson and post-Bon Scott AC/DC is vile (my brother used to play Back In Black all the fucking time in 1980 and I hated it then and still do), but It's A Long Way To The Top and its preceding single in Australia, High Voltage, are fantastic songs in IMHO, and this from a disco and pop-loving middle-aged (who am I trying to fool) queen. I have toyed with buying the AC/DC album TNT on which they both were featured (in Australia this was the case), but the rest of the album is just a no, no, no, for me. In my long-winded manner I am saying this chapter started brilliantly, I could hear Bon's voice and see the video of the band on the back of the truck travelling down Swanston Street in Melbourne, but unfortunately it was all down hill after this. Even the nameless song by A Flock Of Seagulls, which was a huge #1 hit in Australia in 1982, could not soften the subsequent action. After the 'Fantasy' of the last chapter, this one was all too familiar. An African nation led by a despotic madman, a nation which cannot feed its own people but which has spent a fortune on stockpiling weapons. Whoever could have thought of such a far-fetched scenario. I assume it has probably been heavily subsidised by the nation affiliated with the nameless song by A Flock Of Seagulls and has had to sell its soul to do so, and that its leader Anusol Cunteria Loof has amassed a personal fortune which will afford him a lifestyle of privilege when he flees whilst "his people" will fry. Outstanding again @Lee Wilson. Perhaps you should be running for President November 5 (or thereabouts) in 2028.

This was a splendid chapter @Lee Wilson; intriguing and so well written. The story grew exponentially in this chapter, although I have to say I think the chapter content is more aligned to the 'Fantasy' genre (LOL). A principled politician who stuck to his principles, shiver me timbers. If this political storyline continues in its present manner I can only see the story surpassing its already very high standard. The discovery of Avery Jr's thyroid cancer resonated very strongly with me. My youngest cat, now 12, recently had iodine radiation treatment for suspected tumours on her thyroid. Another of my cats, Kiki, who passed away at 17 on February 26th had the same procedure 3 years ago and it was very successful. Fortunately with cats the odds are very high the tumours are benign (statistically about 95%) and the treatment very successful. I just have to wait another 4-5 weeks to have her blood tested again to see if her thyroxine levels have returned to normal. Great story @Lee Wilson.

I found Avery's use of language precision to confuse his suspects very clever and highly amusing @Lee Wilson. Even without his "hidden talent" I think he is very clever, analytical and tactical, skills which have served him well in his chosen profession. His "hidden talent" does have its negatives though with his recognition of a possible health issue for Avery Jr. "Avery junior started looking a little bluer after we moved to Camp Hill. Lindy became a stay-at-home mom along with the move. My salary as Attorney General gave her the flexibility to do so. We started getting Avery tested for all sorts of illnesses every three months. At twelve and a half, nothing turned up." Another well-written court scene which held my interest @Lee Wilson, and again without the benefit of Holland Taylor's witty and acerbic presence.

Jack and one of his cohorts (was it Drongo, Yobbo or Shitforbrains?) once again showed their extraordinary intellect with the highly original (NOT) reference to Guy and Tim as "girls" and "pansies" and asking them if they were going in to purchase Vaseline. I think they need to be taught a lesson, preferably one by legal means courtesy of the police. I concur with @centexhairysub that the police should be informed of the vandalism at least, even if they are powerless to do anything at this point in time as they presumably lack proof. Of course, what I would really like to see happen is an almost 50 year old Lachie make an appearance, with or without Nathan, and take more resolute action. I know it is a long shot, but if Brad is still around and still drives a truck perhaps they could borrow it and just run the fuckers over. It would of course be entirely an unfortunate accident. I suspect friendship with Justin may be sufficient to quell Ben's desires. It may just be a little "man crush" he has. If not, I don't believe Justin will be seduced by Ben's charms as he appears to realise how good he already has it with Scott. @chris191070 described them perfectly "Those Thompson boys are a nuisance". I hope you have something dastardly in store for them @Mark Ponyboy Peters, even if it is limited to public humiliation only.

Hilarious. Poor Ludo. He has been downtrodden for so long by that hideous bitch. He does stand up for Damian though.

Firstly congratulations @Josh Aterovis on selecting such a great song to quote during the "love scene"The Way You Look Tonight. @Philippe could be onto something with his speculation Jake is the killer. His arguments in support of this speculation are well reasoned and if they bear any truth Asher had best watch his back. Jake's siblings appear unhinged and there is also the mystery as to who murdered their Uncle Rick. Killian's fury was perfectly understandable and justified. The hypocrisy of his fellow students and the teachers at the school was nauseating to observe. I am cynical because I wonder if lip service is being paid at this point in time and in time the "novelty" will wear off, particularly if pressure is applied from parents with strong religious convictions or other right-wing nutters. A chapter of contrasts. An observation of the "human" at its most loathsome, its most subservient and its most provocative. Which will eventually emerge triumphant. Another chapter of examination of the "cast" under the microscope @Josh Aterovis. Very authentically written again.

I agree @chris191070. Gloria (Ms Thibodeaux) was well aware Samson and Troy were "not in character" when she caught them in a compromising position. At least they were still clothed. Had they not been she may have insisted she be allowed to stay and watch while they "finished each other off". Father Tabernacle and Mr Wordsworth are my prime suspects. Mrs Edwards appears to have been murdered so the will could not be found. I think they had the most to lose financially, particularly now that Phoebe, Nicholas' long-lost daughter has returned. It is likely with her return Nicholas may have made provision for her in his will, thereby potentially decreasing the money available for distribution to others. Many of the celebrities appear to be relishing their roles @ObicanDecko, none more so than Clementine aka Judy Green. I found her passion for holding the seance, Mrs Edwards appearance thereat and Tiffany aka Miss Maxwell's interviewing techniques highly amusing.

Indoctrination with religious dogma can be very difficult to overcome and it sounds like Sandra's husband and pastor have both been very effective in manipulating and poisoning her mind with their claptrap. The emotional blackmail both have used has me seething with contempt for them. Thomas summed up my attitude towards these arseholes very succinctly with “Why can’t people just leave us the fuck alone?” Indeed young Thomas, a question for the ages. Roger's catharsis has begun with his breakdown in front of Sandra, his revelation of his fears to Thomas and his demonstration of vulnerability to both. I am hoping Sandra's husband is sent to prison for what he has done to Brendon. If Sandra is predominantly a homemaker then perhaps she can continue that role in the employ of Roger. There we go @empath, I have solved quite a few "problems" for the foursome with this suggestion. I like @Cane23 am enjoying the gradual revelations regarding Roger's life. I have assumed Eddie took him in as a "houseboy" (for want of a better term) and provided him with food, lodging and education in return for his "company". It certainly appears to have been an unequal relationship, at least to begin with. Another outstanding chapter @empath, the "beauty" of your writing in stark contrast to the events dealt with in this chapter.

I will not be even the slightest bit upset if Jackie is found on a beach in the French Riviera or off the Amalfi coast as a ............ corpse. The only downside of her demise might be that it may hamper the police from clearing Ludo of any wrongdoing which by default will affect Damian. She really is a despicable partner and mother, not to a mention a criminal. If I was in Ludo's predicament I would not have bothered to store her clothes and belongings in the garage. I would have donated any of her belongings that could be used/sold by a charity or charities and dumped the rest. If Jackie ever returns alive and faces prison time I hope Ludo has NOTHING to do with her, and unless Damian wants to visit her I would not force him to have anything to do with her either. Treat her with the same contempt as she has treated them. Excellent writing as usual @Robert Hugill. Is there nothing to which you cannot turn your hand. You have led us into the world of fashion, the art world, the world of wealthy business people, the tradesman's world and now the world of embezzlement and financial shenanigans. Are you just well-researched or did you have some "inside information " into this world too?

"There were no monologues or quotations, and nobody was counting steps. Neither was thinking of the past or the future. They were present in that moment as their bodies came together, two men coming together in love, becoming one." This in of itself was a remarkable achievement for Joshua in particular. His counting of steps whilst quirky was something I found interesting and to a certain extent endearing. I pondered on more than one occasion what motivated this behaviour, was it a habit carried over from his youth or something he developed when he isolated himself from the world at large? He did not appear obsessive about having to always do it it or concerned about the actual number of steps according to any set pattern. The appearance of now Professor Radcliffe added significantly to the enjoyment of this chapter. His personal and professional growth from the case he tried against Thomas Miller testament to his character. And I loved his quotation of "Cicero" as an authority on a point of law. I look forward to reading more on the lives of Joshua and Marcus @empath. A truly outstanding read.

What a complete turnaround in Josh's frame of mind and his appreciation of his own worth, and essentially all it took was what he had denied himself for so long, the love and caring of a partner and his sister. A sensitively and authentically written chapter @empath. The 10 year age gap between Joshua and Marcus is negligible, particularly given Joshua's disengagement from society as a whole and from himself, for much of his adult life. Joshua and Marcus appear to bring out the best in each other and soothe the disquiet or painful memories when they surface.

Ditto @empath. Ditto @Gary L. Such strong emotions expressed with an economy of words. A real talent to say so much with so few words, reminiscent of some of this sites finest authors, one of whom is a favourite of yours and mine. A talent I do not possess in either the written word or spoken word. Perhaps a visit to "Blighty" may cure me of my verbosity.

Superb start to this story @empath. I felt the pain of both Joshua and Marcus, particularly the former, hitherto invisible as the person he really is. Marcus is a breath of fresh air in Joshua's closeted and claustrophobic world. I look forward to the journey this story will take me on. And whilst I know the story is complete I cannot let it pass without a musical contribution in response to your query if it should continue. A great song with Andrea True in an outfit which would not have been out of place in her other career, porn (at least at the start of a film). Disco is NOT dead as much as many apparently wish it was.

My experience is similar to that of @weinerdog in that I have never been attracted to women sexually, only men. I was also fortunate enough I did not feel compelled to try to prove I was straight, perhaps recognising it would have been a fruitless exercise anyway as I am not that good at acting. I too have difficulty understanding Ben's quandary, and as a Libran would find it very disconcerting to have similar doubts. This does not of course prevent me from sympathising with Ben, particularly as he is happy with Samantha and clearly does not want to damage the relationship he has with her. Would she be understanding if he was to reveal to her he may be bisexual? It is impossible to predict, but I suspect she would at least try to understand him and not take the moral "high ground". And I have to wonder what it is about Justin specifically that has Ben all hot and bothered. I wonder if Ben is by nature a nurturer and he senses Justin is someone who "needs" caring for more than most. One thing I am almost certain of is that Scott will be none too happy if Ben makes a move on Justin, particularly if Justin responds positively to such a move. This storyline has been simmering away for some time now @Mark Ponyboy Peters, with Ben's pent-up desires marinating quietly until now they have reached "boiling" point. I am intrigued just where you will take us with it (and I cannot for the life of me remember this storyline at all).

DA Mike Schultz certainly played an integral part in justice being served and for that he must be admired. He was the catalyst who not only "saved" Thomas' life but also taught his young ADA a valuable life lesson in the making. And one must not underestimate the role that he, Timothy Radcliffe, also played in ensuring justice was served. He did not allow his ego and desire for success to cloud his judgment when it counted and for that he too must be admired. I too am very pleased the story will continue @empath. I hope we readers learn more of Roger's back story, although one can guess much of it. His statement “Would it offend you to know that I’m actually doing it for me?” Roger eyes grew moist as well. “I want to be free too, Thomas. Whatever it takes. Helping you is helping me as well.” a testament to his honesty and vulnerability, the latter of which takes a "real man" to express. I hope as the story continues Thomas continues to play a significant role even though the focus of the story will shift to Roger's former and current life (I assume). A very well written, suspenseful and satisfying chapter @empath. You "nailed" it.

It might emerge as such if he was killed by someone defending themselves from being his prey again.

Bring on Charles' annihilation. Motherfucker's going down to 'The Big House' where he will become someone's bitch.