Summerabbacat

I was under the impression James was the child/teenager and his mother the adult, however, it appears I may have been mistaken. “Bye, Mom.” I looked over expecting her to say something, but she kept reading the paper without looking up. When I got outside, Jackie was sitting on the porch." James' mother's behaviour at the breakfast table was manipulative and malevolent, the behaviour one would expect from a petulant and bratty child, not from an adult who has already passed judgment on the behaviour of her own child without considering why he behaved like he did. To date her parenting skills seem to be somewhat lacking, particularly when you consider her leniency towards the behaviour of James' sister, Janet. Janet's comment about James making a girl pregnant should have been worthy of a rebuke at least from their mother. It seems she has different standards of behaviour for her children. James' sense of humour impressed me yet again in this chapter. "I sat down quickly on the bench about three feet away from Dion. I crossed my legs and prayed it would go limp before Mr. Marshall returned. I was able to get it to go down when I pictured Agatha Grimwold stripping off her clothes in history class and reciting the Gettysburg Address." gave me a hearty chuckle. I think there is more to the story of Dion's alleged theft of a bologna sandwich than what there appears to be. I had to look up what a bologna sandwich was and have to say even if I was not a long-term vegetarian I think I would be equally as repulsed as James was. It sounds disgusting and similar to what I had as a child growing up in Australia, devon. Gross. Your characterisations are to be commended @Ronyx. It is I imagine "easy" to write characters who are likeable, but I imagine not so easy to write those who are not without making them so vile they become a caricature. Whilst I currently dislike James' mother, her behaviour is believable and I am almost certain she is not without some redeeming features.

After reading my comments again @raven1 I thought perhaps I was a little harsh, but it appears some of my fellow readers have made similar observations, so I am comfortable I have not been too judgmental (yet). Whilst I find most of the characters, apart from Seth, less than likeable, I don't believe any of them are in any way sinister, except perhaps Craig. "Seth's mother and sister would be difficult to live with the way they team up on Seth". The reason for my ha ha emoticon @raven1. Hilariously understated and biting.

Poor James. He is punished because of the action of an hysterical teacher and then goes home only to be tormented by the actions of an hysterical mother. I am not suggesting what he did was excusable, but both Mrs Horner and his mother seem to have blown his actions way out of proportion. His disrespect of Mrs Horner was the action of a boy who had never been known to have behaved like this before, so give him a break, which is essentially what Mr Marshall did (although five days detention seems a bit much). I assume the story is set in the USA so both Mrs Horner and James' mother should count their blessings he did not pull out a semi-automatic weapon and blow their heads off. James has a wonderful sense of humour. His description of Jackie's sense of fashion was very funny, particularly as it was made without any malice. I had a vision of Jackie as Amy Farrah Fowler from 'The Big Bang Theory'. Their friendship is one which appears to be very important to both, and perhaps a little unusual given their age. Dion did not create a good impression with his behaviour in this first chapter. Methinks he is perhaps painfully shy, insecure and lacking in self-esteem. Either this, or he is just an arsehole. If he were the latter I would expect him to be brash though. I too have read this story before @Ronyx, but have no doubt revisiting it will once again prove an engaging, entertaining and rewarding experience.

A very "wise" decision. The story then becomes something akin to a soap opera, and we all know only too well, that many of them rely so heavily upon cliches and melodrama they become too ridiculous and if revisited at some later date are often awfully dated. Short-term appeal vs long-term appeal and credibility. Light-weight "fluff" vs a story and characters with substance.

I think "awesome" is an apt word for this group of friends @weinerdog, so please continue to use it (sparingly of course).😁😁😁 Jacob's mother did make a comment in the first chapter (to Matt I think) that she had wondered why Tyler had been absent from Jacob's life for some time. It certainly would not surprise if she too was a victim of her ex-husband's abuse. Interestingly (and surprisingly given how much I have agreed with your comments on various stories of late), neither of your "speculations" regarding "my next challenge .... The School" occurred to me. The only thought I had was Tyler developing a plan of how he can convince the school board/administration to not only not expel Jacob, but allow him to return to school. Given how selfless Tyler has been to date, I think this is a distinct possibility (he is almost too good at times, but not sickeningly so).

Wow, just wow @Jeff Burton. A powerfully emotional chapter, exceptionally well-written. The temptation for authors with such plots is to over-dramatise them, which often has the effect of desensitising the audience to the point where the events become almost commonplace. I was very pleased to witness that you did not fall into this trap. The restraint you demonstrated when detailing the events which led to Jacob's meltdown made them so much the more powerful. As a number of your readers had speculated, Jacob had been the victim of violent abuse which had a lasting negative impact on his emotional well-being. It is to Jacob's credit he has not used this as an excuse, but as pointed out by some, if he had shared this information at the time of its occurrence he may not have found himself in the circumstances which led to his assault of Tyler. Hindsight is so often illuminating. Tyler yet again demonstrated what a beautiful person he is with his reconciliation with Jacob. Even if the two do not become lovers, their friendship is bound to strengthen again as both seem very intent on it doing so. Gavin is going to play a big part in both of their lives going forward. His observations were spot on. "I said ‘because I’m a fucking faggot and he rejected me. She made it clear she supports and loves me though.’” “When you said that, were you talking about your dad or Tyler in that instance.” Gavin asked carefully.“Both.” Jacob said simply. " As soon as Jacob reiterated that statement I knew he was not only referring to Tyler. I have no doubt Jacob's rejection by his father was even more painful than his perceived rejection by Tyler. He was after all only a child at the time.

With just a few masterful strokes of your literary brush @Ronyx you have already painted some potent characters, who upon introduction are for the most part, thoroughly unlikeable. I find myself agreeing with much of what @weinerdog has stated above (this is becoming a habit @weinerdog; btw love your profile picture). Stacy is a self-centred narcissistic bitch. I know she is a 16-year-old girl and it “comes with the territory”, but she needs to be “slapped into the middle of next week”, and one thing is very clear, her mother is unlikely to do this. She, Mommie Dearest, made no attempt to chastise Stacy for her brattish behaviour, in fact she appeared to not only indulge it but encourage it. My initial impression of Mommie Dearest is far from positive. Her blatant favouritism of her daughter is not encouraging she will be understanding or even attempt to be understanding, if and when, Seth "comes out" or is "forced out". Her excuse she is too busy to take Stacy anywhere wore thin very quickly. Stacy is her daughter and her responsibility, not Seth's. Make time bitch to at least share some of the responsibility with Seth for transporting Stacy, or better still tell Stacy to get off her lazy fat arse and walk or catch a bus. Maybe there is a good reason her ex-husband up and left in the middle of the night. Speaking of the ex-husband, is Seth's knowledge of his father's subsequent life first-hand or is it what Mommie Dearest has told him. Given my initial impression of Mommie Dearest is far from positive, I am not sure I would trust her to be truthful. If what Seth believes about his father is the truth then his father is a selfish bastard. It is all very well to leave your wife in the middle of the night, but to abandon your children completely is inexcusable (except maybe in Stacy's case). Now to Craig. What a thoroughly unlikeable, arrogant, entitled prick he is. I have little doubt he is a bully and have little doubt he is going to use Seth to his advantage. If Stacy fails to “put out” I can see Craig “blackmailing” Seth for sexual favours. The indications are already there that this will be his modus operandi. The only potential bright light in Seth’s life is the “boy in the other room”. I look forward to learning more of his story. Is he a potential “love interest” for Seth. A brilliant start to this story @Ronyx. Hopefully some of the characters may redeem themselves, although I hold little hope for Stacy and Craig. They are both so obnoxious it is hard to see them earning my respect or admiration any time soon.

I have to agree with the good doctor @drsawzall again, this story does beg for another chapter or two. I liked Jeff's sense of humour, although he is perhaps a little harsh on himself, something I can relate to very well (although I am significantly older than Jeff).

NEVER apologise for writing thought provoking literature with interesting, vulnerable and yes even "tragic" characters.

I find myself agreeing with @weinerdog yet again. I too believe Gus likely experienced life as a child in the foster system or a group home as he was very quick to recognise these were Ben's personal circumstances. Gus' comment and the conviction with which it was said "you aren't a throwaway" was so moving, I found myself weeping with both sadness and joy, sadness that Ben would think such a thing and joy that Gus felt so strongly after having only known Ben for such a short time. I think Josh, Dylan and Anthony have also experienced hardship in life, whether they too have been in some kind of care outside their own family remains to be seen. Poignant is the word which best described this chapter for me @Jeff Burton. Ben is a wonderful character and I look forward to learning more about him as the story progresses.

Reading a story such as this forces one to examine one's own life and recognise that many of one's complaints are petty in comparison to the difficulties others experience on a daily basis. How has Ben managed to retain even a sliver of hope that life may get better given how many times he has been beaten down? How has he not become bitter and hateful? How has he not at least contemplated suicide? His strength of character and resolve is extraordinary. He in many ways is even more remarkable than Tyler from Jacob's Advocate as Tyler has had the benefit of supportive family and friends. I suspect (and certainly hope) Josh's motives are genuine. I think perhaps he has recognised a kindred spirit in Ben and he is keen to help make Ben's life easier and happier. Great start to this one too @Jeff Burton. I am invariably drawn to the "underdog" so am already invested in Ben and what his future may hold.

Tyler is a remarkable 16 year old. Most 16 year old teenagers, in fact most humans of any age, would have been hellbent on revenge after what Jacob did to Tyler. Whilst I still think what he did was disproportionate and inexcusable, I was moved and challenged by Tyler's argument for forgiving Jacob. I am troubled by Tyler's feeling of guilt, that somehow he deserved the beating, but I think with help from Gavin he will realise that he is not in any way guilty. His resolve that he did not want Jacob's life to be ruined for what he regards as essentially a mistake is certainly deserving of his father's final comment “You’re something else Ty.” My dad said as he wrapped an arm around me. “I couldn’t be more proud of you.” I am also keen to learn of Jacob's father, if he has ever had one. It may be that his father did "a runner" before Jacob was even born. Travis sprung a surprise and also showed what a remarkable young man he is. If a relationship develops between Tyler and Jacob it appears Travis will not stand in their way. Like @weinerdog said, Tyler's friends are awesome (I normally hate using this word as it is so overused that it has essentially lost its true meaning, but in this case I think it very apt). A very moving chapter @Jeff Burton. I did not think I would change my stance that Jacob should be sent to prison or at least juvie, but after witnessing Tyler's plea I could not help but be moved from my original position.

I would find it very difficult to be as forgiving as Tyler too @jaysalmn. If Jacob willingly seeks professional help there is hope for the relationship, if not, I think it doomed to failure.

I have to agree with my learned fellow readers @Jjeffalch and @weinerdog that Jacob's reaction to Tyler's alleged rejection was extreme. The physical ferocity of his attack may be the result of Jacob being exposed to homophobia or perhaps he himself has been the victim of violence from someone due to his also being gay. Whatever his reason for the attack, it cannot be excused and "swept under the carpet". Tyler's forgiveness of Jacob's physical attack whilst apparently admirable is I believe premature. I am not suggesting Jacob be incarcerated or sent to juvie, but he MUST be made seek professional help. If he is not prepared to do so unreservedly, Tyler must taken precaution to protect himself from Jacob. Tyler and Jacob are fortunate to have friends such as Travis, Amanda and particularly Matthew. A riveting start to this story @Jeff Burton.

LOL🤣🤣🤣 I requested this primarily because I thought it may introduce some "fireworks" into the story as I have read the French and the Belgians sometimes are a little "testy" with each other. I also hoped Claude and Francois may be accompanied by their pooch when they visit (I am not positive of this, but I seem to recall his name is Toby).

Gary appears to have had a happier life and more fulfilling marriage than Kevin, or perhaps Gary expected less and therefore received more than what he ever hoped for. I hope they seize this second opportunity and make the most of it, even if there is opposition to a relationship between the two from others. If any of their children express disapproval I hope they have "the balls" to tell them to mind their own business.

The visiting dolphins and my favourite family member, Rascal, were the stars of this chapter for me @Andre Delport. I visited a friend this past weekend who has a soon to be 17 year old male dachshund who is in remarkably good health. Although I am a cat man, I do like dogs and dachshund's are a very appealing dog, both appearance and temperament. Andrew and Ryan impressed yet again as employers. Their respect for and treatment of their staff is rewarded with enthusiastic and hard working staff; not a difficult concept really, but seemingly beyond so many employers. If I may be so bold @Andre Delport, I would love to see Claude and Francois make another appearance, perhaps a visit to the Devlin/Major home whilst Gabriel and Lucas also visit.

More, More, More (with thanks to Andrea True) for Gary and Kevin, and for we, your readers @Tallguyct. I hope either one or both is inquisitive enough to at least try to find out what happened to all those "lost" letters. It smacks of interference to me.

One letter, maybe two, not reaching their destination suggests mail lost by the postal carrier. Multiple "lost" letters sent by both parties suggests intervention by a third party or parties. If there was parental intervention I hope Kevin and Gary discover this, and if the parent(s) still alive they are made suffer the consequences of their meddling.

After living together for five months I wonder if Gary's parents became aware or suspected the true nature of their friendship, and if so, I wonder if they intervened to ensure the relationship died a "natural death". They may have intercepted letters between the two, thus convincing each that the other no longer cared for them. Another thoroughly enjoyable chapter @Tallguyct.

Although Gary is annoying me somewhat, to his credit he did not say "I'm not sucking dick because I'm not gay" and has not belittled Kevin because he enthusiastically sucked dick. As @VBlew stated, one must assume their friendship progressed, unless "their life together" was all in Kevin's mind.

Poor Kevin has been the victim of unwanted female "attention" in 1974 just as he was in 2015 at the school reunion, and may have well experienced it on occasion(s) in between. It seems he has always been too polite or reticent to speak up. I guess in 1974 "back off bitch" would no doubt have led to him being labelled a faggot and made life difficult. Going forward if he is groped again I do hope he has the courage to stand up for himself. I am liking the direction of this story and its leisurely pace very much @Tallguyct.

I know nothing about baseball and have to confess whenever I read a story in which a game features it holds little or no interest to me. On this occasion though I not only understood what happened (at least I think I did), but was entertained. Well done @Tallguyct. I am looking forward to what the visit to the cottage will encourage.

Kevin is a little too polite for his own good. One of the positive things that usually accompanies ageing is that one no longer feels compelled to tolerate shit from anyone, regardless of their gender, age or circumstance. If I had been Kevin I would not only have removed Anne's hand, I would have accompanied the removal with a few choice words spoken so others heard. Kevin has a good sense of humour. His thoughts of Marjorie's appearance gave me a good chuckle, particularly when one imagines she was likely attractive as a teenager, given she was a cheerleader. This encounter had me reminiscing about the film Romy & Michele's High School Reunion which I loved. An intriguing start @Tallguyct to a story which I look forward to reading more of. Stories in which the protagonist(s) are 60+ in age are few and far between, unless they are tragic and/or embittered. I have a good feeling I am going to enjoy this story.

I knew you were British, which for some reason surprised me, perhaps because the stories of yours which I have read were mostly set in the USA. I strongly suspect the Christian fundies in Australia tend to be noticed more now because of the internet and they make for "newsworthy" reporting. They are usually given little respect or sympathy by the general public, and pleasingly so are often heavily criticised publicly by more progressive Christians and their leaders.