Summerabbacat

If I may be so bold, I would like to comment upon most of the points raised above by my fellow reader, @drsawzall, as I feel he has encapsulated this chapter brilliantly. Daddy doth protest too much, methinks. Tyler’s father’s rantings about “gay rights” strengthens my suspicion that Daddy might like dick on the downlow. His rantings may be the result of internalised homophobia. He certainly would not be the first conservative politician to subscribe to the “evil” of homosexuality whilst getting his fix of cock well hidden from prying eyes. He may be living his life according to the "principles" of the odious Roy Cohn. How about a funeral director? According to Jim his “testimonials” are certainly being well exercised and drained. I believe him as he did not seem to be bragging about his conquests. We can only but hope Tyler will feel emboldened by Jim’s revelations and wipe the real losers i.e. Dwight and Clyde, from his life. I think you might be right (and I hope you are). Rufus is far braver than Tyler at this point in their life and I feel he may have come out to help ease the way for Tyler to do the same, at least at school. There does not seem to be any other motivation for him doing so as he indicated his family already knows. A very well written and enjoyable chapter @Arch Hunter.

Tyler’s mother is a piece of work. I don’t think it is a coincidence she asked Tyler in a prior chapter if his other friends were accepting of Rufus, and a short time later she is disclosing to one of his class mates Tyler's whereabouts after the party. She really is a trouble-making harridan. It would serve her right if her husband was having sex with other men on the down low and offers his support to Tyler as a gay/bisexual teenager. @Arch Hunter perhaps you can arrange for her to take one too many drinks in the evening whilst watching TV alone after an afternoon spent drinking with her friends, and as a result she meets an unfortunate end, choking on her own vomit. Such demise would be poetic justice for a woman obsessed with appearance. Dwight is a fuckwit and his two lackeys, Clyde and Jim, are not much better. I was hoping the latter two had balls and a spine and would stand up to Dwight, but it appears my hopes were in vain. Tyler is for the moment devastated, betrayed by Mommie Dearest and treated like a leper by his supposed friends. Even though Dwight’s, Clyde’s and Jim’s treatment of him comes as no surprise to Tyler, he is rightly still very upset by their pathetic behaviour. Methinks Rufus has more balls than Tyler and the other three combined and, if he is as keen on Tyler as he now appears to be he may have to put those balls to good use. Or better still as @drsawzall has speculated, Tim may choose to intervene and teach the three penile-challenged stoners a lesson about life. Tim proved to be a delightful surprise in this chapter. Behind his often gruff and unpleasant behaviour lies a character intent on protecting his brother from those who may prey on his good nature. The character development in this story has been most impressive @Arch Hunter. I like a story such as this with a leisurely pace and without too much melodrama. Stories with incessant melodrama and a frantic pace tend to be draining and their appeal short lived.

Well, I learn something every chapter @Arch Hunter. This chapter I learnt there really is a game named 'Exploding Kittens'. I am appalled, but not shocked, that some “human” would design a game and think it funny/appropriate to give it such a grotesque name. Why not 'Exploding Babies'? I wonder if such a name would have been given approval? It is just another example of speciesism at its ugliest. "He's not my secret crush, you idiot," I say. "We're out and proud." I think this was a very clever ploy on Tyler’s part, almost like hiding out in the open. One can tell it’s a teenage party Tyler attended. Adding coke (which I assumed was Coca Cola rather than cocaine) to vodka. Really? Sacrilege. "Good evening Mrs Webb” he says, but she ignores him" Clearly manners are not at the top of Tyler’s mother’s list of etiquette for good behaviour, or perhaps good manners only apply to certain situations or certain classes of people. Rude much you vile harpy. Apart from the grotesquely named game and the rudeness of Mommie Dearest, this was a light and frothy chapter which introduced some intimacy into the budding relationship between Tyler and Rufus. Very well written and mostly enjoyable @Arch Hunter.

A number of very interesting hypotheses have been articulated by my fellow readers in preceding comments. I certainly do not mean to discount any of these, but I find it difficult to believe Tyler’s mother’s reaction to his disclosure he is attracted to Rufus comes from a place of concern for him. If she was concerned for his safety now or in the future or for the possible ostracisation he may face from society, surely she would not have reacted in such a cold and hostile manner. Would she not have been more likely to articulate her concerns and try to reassure Tyler of her love for him as her child? The only thing we know of Tyler’s mother’s character is what Tyler has previously disclosed “Mom isn't your regular housewife, wearing loose clothes around the house. She always dresses for the occasion, including shoes and makeup, even if she's not expecting anyone.” and “Mom takes care of the house, and in the afternoons she drinks wine with her friends or alone. Later she sleeps on the couch while the TV is running, and around midnight, she turns it off and goes to bed. She has a sewing club on Thursdays, but she never talks about it - not that I want to hear.” There has been no suggestion she has any religious affiliation which may have been the catalyst for her reaction; the only mention of such beliefs being held was the disclosure by Rufus that his mother was to attend church. Could it be Tyler’s mother’s reaction “I'm not going to tell your father. Pray to god that he doesn't figure it out for himself." She then walks out of the room but stops in the doorway. "And anyway, it better be a joke' she adds quietly and leaves me there” was completely selfish rather than selfless. Her usual behaviour suggests a woman acutely aware of the image she presents to society, one who works hard to cultivate an image of beauty, success and happiness. Perhaps she is as shallow as Tyler has portrayed her to be and is anything but happy (drinking alone and falling asleep on the couch while watching TV alone"). Her behaviour suggests to me she is ultimately more concerned with her image and fears that if Tyler is exposed as gay it may tarnish the image she has constructed, even if only in her own mind, of her successful and attractive family. Whatever the motives for her behaviour I fear they have little to do with concern for Tyler's welfare and well-being, more to do with concern for herself. She strikes me as a self-serving, manipulative and cold-hearted bitch.

Another impressive display of your literary prowess @Andre Delport. I agree with @pvtguy; it is very admirable Andrew and Ryan regard their employees as their various businesses’ greatest assets and treat them accordingly. Too often people of immense wealth are anything but fair, generous and kind to their employees. I particularly enjoyed the reappearance of the delightful dachshund, Rascal; and, delighted at the thought of reedbuck, kuku, springbok and baboons sharing the golf course (although I would likely be wary of the latter as I have read they can become quite aggressive). I too look forward to further adventure in the lives of the Devlin-Major extended family.

I thought Jim may be remaining quiet about having seen Tyler and Rufus holding hands (assuming he did in fact see this) because he may be uncertain of his sexuality or may in fact be gay. Your speculation @weinerdogis an interesting one as a crush on Tyler may also explain why Jim has not exposed Tyler and the hand holding with Rufus, and why he remained strangely silent after Rufus approached the boys and asked "meet you after school Tyler?". Dwight's remark "Let us know if he gives good head. I've had a dry season with girls." made me laugh as I immediately thought the only action he is likely to have had is with Rosy Palmer and her five daughters. Another possibility for a couple name is Ruftyle. Not very sexy sounding, but it is an almost equal split of their names. A chapter awash with revelations @Arch Hunter. The only revelation which surprised me was Rufus' mother's, father's and brother's apparent acceptance of his being gay. I had a preconceived idea they would not given their socio-economic status. On this issue, I am pleased the apparent noticeable difference in their financial capability is something which Tyler does not seem to have considered as a "problem" which prevents or makes a relationship between the two unviable.

I occasionally watch music videos on Youtube, but do not use social media at all. I thought ASMR may have something to do with astronomy (A) and science (S) given the interest in both shared by Tyler and Rufus.

I agree @Dan South; slowly but surely Tyler appears to be becoming more self-aware and less self-centred. His thought that "On Monday, Rufus keeps his promise and sticks with Dale and the girls. I feel like a total jerk, and the more I think about it, the more I realize it's because I am one" showed great promise, but then he had to spoil it with "I can barely participate in our regular shenanigans because I keep stealing glances at Rufus and how he's relaxed and happy with his little bunch of losers". The saving grace is that he previously acknowledged to Rufus that he was in fact the loser because of his treatment of Rufus in an attempt to remain cool in front of his friends. I have to agree with other readers who have commented unfavourably on Tim. He did not impress me at all either. A selfish arsehole I would say, with little regard for anyone other than himself (a bit like Tyler's friends).

I am also "guilty" of this and not just in online comments. Anything I have a strong opinion on I have to share it and too often cannot/will not entertain that others may not share that opinion. I am occasionally persuaded to at least consider an alternate opinion or explanation offered on this forum though.

This is at least half the fun when commenting on this type of story @Dan South. One can be harsh and completely unrealistic in judgment of the behaviour of a character, knowing that it will not in any way harm them. I have to agree with your comment about which head Tyler is thinking with, but I don't think this is necessarily restricted to teenage boys or males in general.

I found that one line amusing too @Dan South as so often one hears a song which is not an original and is completely unaware that it has been recorded before. I am old enough to remember the original by Eric Carmen when it was popular (I was just a little younger than Tyler and Rufus). Whilst I like quite a lot of Celine Dion's material, I think her version was not a patch on the original.

I cannot say I was averse to peer pressure whilst in school @Biff Spork, but I like to think I resisted the more unattractive aspects of such pressure. In Tyler's case I think he is also feeling some pressure from his father, pressure which may or may not have any basis. Speaking of Tyler's father, his reaction of laughter to Rufus' revelation that his father is in prison for murder was tasteless at the very least. I have been known to react in what was perceived as poor taste (I laughed uproariously when Big left Carrie Bradshaw at the altar in Sex And The City - The Movie because as a character in both the TV series and the movie I detested her with a vengeance), but I would draw the line at laughter in such circumstances as Rufus' revelation. I have to ask @Arch Hunter, what does the acronym ASMR refer to? I also had never seen the word incel before. Given the context in which it was used in this chapter it appears a most appropriate choice. "I can't even pretend that I’m doing something else anymore. I lie on the bed and wait for the phone to buzz. This is so frustrating! Why am I simping for this prude nerd? I'm too good-looking to be this desperate." Another word I had never before seen, simping. This has to be the most repugnant thought Tyler has expressed to date.

I think the joke came off as lame @Arch Hunter. This was believable as I thought perhaps Rufus' father may have been trying to appear "cool" in front of his son's friend too, although I forgot to mention this in my comment above.

A man with 5 cats is obviously a man of great character @gdaniel. I have had as many as 13 at one (8 were foster cats) in my time. I had a very stable household of 6 feline companions until June 2021 when my favourite (my boy Bassey) passed away, followed shortly after by his "sister", my beloved Ava. I now have 4, with my eldest, Kiki, approaching 16 years of age. My life has been enriched beyond my wildest dreams by my beloved felines. My profile picture is my greatest friend ever, my cherished Bassey.

"Tyler, do you have a second to talk about the project?" he asks me shyly, meeting the boys' ironic smiles. "I'm busy, dude," I say. "Just text me on Whatsapp, and I'll check later." "Okay," he mumbles and walks away, looking down with disappointment. I curse under my breath. I had hoped Rufus would be smarter than to approach me when I'm around the guys. Maybe he’ll learn from this.” Tyler is behaving more like Tyler the tool, twat or tosser than Tyler the tortured teen. I would suggest he has far more to learn than Rufus does. Rufus already knows Tyler is shallow and narcissistic; does Tyler have any idea though that being a rude arrogant prick is not going to endear him to Rufus or anyone else worth knowing? I think at this point in time Tyler's ego is so inflated he truly believes he would be doing Rufus a favour by even noticing him, let alone developing some kind of relationship with him. On a positive note, Tyler is at least aware his behaviour and attitude cause Rufus embarrassment and/or sadness. He just needs for his balls to drop a little further and his spine to grow a little stronger to do something about it (hopefully). Tyler’s father may not be a good influence on his son if his behaviour when Rufus came to visit is any indication. His remark “I used to be a straight-A science student. Today I'm just straight,” is somewhat troubling. Is he just trying to be funny or is he perhaps aware of his son’s attraction to Rufus and passing judgment thereon? Another well-written chapter @Arch Hunter. The character development is leisurely and believable.

“Not that there’s anything wrong with the boys, even though Dwight’s muscle mass or ego far outweigh his unimpressive cock” and “No one,” I say and then send him a link to the song All by Myself, accidentally discovering that it’s not originally by Celine Dion but by some dude called Eric Carmen” indicate Tyler at least has a sense of humour. Like my fellow readers, my observations are that he has not exhibited any other behaviour(s) to suggest he is anything but shallow and narcissistic. Is he Tyler the tortured teen or Tyler the tool, twat or tosser or a mix of the two? I look forward to reading more of this story with a most promising start.

I love these occasional chapters where the action is minimal, life continues at a leisurely pace. Very soothing @Andre Delport and a delight to read as usual.

An outstanding debut by @Biff Spork. A unique, captivating, heart-warming, emotionally challenging, thought provoking and ultimately enjoyable story. With only a small "cast" of human characters, the non-human characters, particularly the fascinating and delightful prairie dogs, are given equal "starring time" by this most generous of authors. The delightful Bumper and Marcus are a charming mix of youthful exuberance and innocence and serious dedicated eco-warriors. So much to like about this story. If I have but one criticism, it is that I wanted more, much more of @Biff Spork's literary feast.

A partially happy ending only for me @Biff Spork. Marcus and Bumper's survival of the flash flood was welcome, particularly after the graphically detailed explanation of what they went through to do so, but the complete devastation of Bumper's beloved prairie dogs left me feeling somewhat "cheated" and despondent. This is no criticism of your story telling @Biff Spork, it was a realistic scenario, it just left me sobbing. I am not usually much moved by the plight of humans in natural disasters, but I am ALWAYS moved by the plight of the non-human animals. A thoroughly enjoyable story from commencement to conclusion @Biff Spork, even if the ending left me feeling somewhat bereft. So many things to admire, the character development of all the human characters, the wonder and innocence of Marcus and Bumper, particularly as their relationship developed and strengthened, but the absolute pinnacle for me, Bumper's relationship formed with the prairie dogs. Just writing this comment has me in tears again. Your unique story and story telling prowess a joy to witness.

Nooooooooooooo; surely it is but a dream @Biff Spork.

“You’re right. We’re just the same as all those people driving their gas-guzzling SUVs to the steak house. It’s like we’re all in a dream, the most wonderful dream, but we’ve got to wake up; we’ve got to wake up before it’s too late to do anything to save this.” I have to disagree very strongly with Marcus on this statement. He is "guilty" of something I frequently do myself. He is very idealistic and I suspect becomes very despondent when faced with the reality that much of the human population is only concerned with accumulating wealth and breeding to "carry on the family name". As David Attenborough has stated on many an occasion "humans are a plague on earth" and has linked anthropogenic effects on the environment with human population growth. No surprises he has been criticised for this, no doubt accused of being insensitive to third world problems whilst living in relative comfort in the west. I am not looking forward to this story ending @Biff Spork. It is unique, thought provoking, humorous, challenging and ultimately a joy to read.

I have to agree with Bumper's mother when she remarked “Oh, Bumper,” she cried. “That was the most beautiful thing I ever saw.” To be "smothered" with affection from not one, but two non-human and non-domesticated species of the animal kingdom would be a wonder to behold and a joyous occasion hard to beat. Bumper should be well pleased both his parents are impressed with the study he and Marcus are undertaking, and seem to have a genuine interest it too. As much as I like Bumper and Marcus @Biff Spork, the prairie dogs, particularly the "named" ones, are challenging the boys as the main attraction to this story.

Soap marketers have been very successful in convincing me @Biff Spork. I use body wash made from lime and coriander and use herbal deodorant which contains no aluminium chloride. I am not going to test your experience and refrain from using at least body wash, this is one issue on which we shall have to disagree. I thought Bumper was very brave (foolhardy actually) allowing a prairie dog pup climb onto his penis without at least the protection of a koteka. The pup could have caused some real damage with its "wicked claws'. My late beloved male cat, Bassey, jumped into my lap once from the armrest of the lounge whilst I was asleep and wearing boxers. Suffice to say some blood in your crotch is not something any male wishes to see. Bumper is a boy with an apparent abundance of enthusiasm and commonsense. I thought him very clever for realising approaching the prairie dogs on all fours would likely be less threatening to them. This story continues to entertain, charm and educate @Biff Spork.

Bumper and Marcus are certainly enjoying their carefree naked adventure. They are showing remarkable patience and maturity in their study of the prairie dogs. I wonder if their study of the prairie dogs and their apparent enjoyment thereof will leave such an emphatic mark that it will lead them to undertake such studies as adults. Dare I suggest @Biff Spork a pair of David Attenboroughs in the making. With Marcus' wealth at their disposal, imagine what they could achieve for the rest of the animal kingdom not intent on destroying Planet Earth.

Oh what a joyous chapter @Biff Spork, perhaps my favourite to date I think. "I described how Marcus and I were studying the prairie dogs and might even write a book about them when we finished. I told my dad how all the outdoor stuff he taught me when we went camping was useful now that Marcus and I were out on the prairie." How generous and thoughtful of Bumper to make this comment to his father, one can only imagine how thrilled he would have been to receive such fair praise. "The buffalo took no notice of the penises poking through the tent door, except perhaps the big bull. After we finished, he let his penis out, about three feet long, and peed a big puddle." This elicited a hearty laugh from me; this was one pissing contest neither Bumper or Marcus could win. “Marcus is very dear to us, Bumper. Since his granddad died, we’ve never seen him so happy as he has been lately. Since he met you, there’s a light in his eye again, and he laughs and smiles like he used to when he was little. If there’s ever anything you need, or you want to talk about…” turned me into a weeping puddle. I am not fond of children (an understatement), but I defy anyone not to been enamoured with both Bumper and Marcus. And again, those gorgeous Prairie Dogs. I loved how Bumper and Marcus took to naming them, and what amusing and clever names. @Biff Spork I found myself hearing both Bumper and Marcus initially speaking with a David Attenboroughesque tone of voice when they first started discussing studying the Prairie Dogs. He has such a soothing tone, a tone most suited to his passion.