Summerabbacat

@Wombat Bill more bloody research necessary; you are determined to broaden my education and make me appreciate the "cultured" things in life. It is a waste of time though; you will never succeed in making me appreciate classical music, opera or Waiting For Godot; and, I will always adore Kylie, Madonna and Bananarama, and loathe The Beatles, John Lennon and Bob fucking Dylan. Another famous writer you said named Bill. I had no idea; the only Bill's I could think of were yourself, Shorten and Clinton. I researched and found it was him. I was not fond of The Bard when I was at school (I can only vaguely remember studying Henry IV and Julius Caesar), and was only aware that he wrote a play called As You Like It. I knew nothing of its plot and this famous quote. In school I was far more interested in masterpieces like Wuthering Heights (my all-time favourite novel), Sons & Lovers (I hated Mrs Morel with a passion), Emma (still my favourite Austen novel) and The Great Gatsby. We your readers have to threaten you to ensure you understand how essential your work is to maintain our existence. Our very sanity depends on a daily dose of CWB (bold type and italics necessary), and the tying up of all loose ends. Patience is a quality that I possess little of. I have always maintained that if patience is a virtue, then vice is its only reward. I have not been rewarded with enough vice, thus don't waste my time with patience. You certainly provoked much discussion with this chapter. You have kept us engaged for 34 chapters in this second book, no mean feat I would suggest.

That's OK then. I would have been hysterical.

Whomever murdered Mickey deserves the death penalty. I suspect a henchman of Lan likely did it. If so, hopefully both will have their throats cut in a gangland execution. Jaimee's reaction to Mickey's death was very disappointing; he certainly did not appear to be grief-stricken.

I am not sure I entirely trust Norman. Lan is scum. I hope he ends up as someone's bitch in prison.

@quokka over the past two days I have read Top End Doctor in preparation to read this story, which from the synopsis sounded very interesting. I have just learnt from my research on the 'net that Dundee Beach and the surrounding towns are not fictional, having sprung up in the 1990's (it is unfortunate I think they were named after that movie though). I have visited the 'top end' once back in 1996 or 1997, and then only Darwin on my way from Perth to Cairns. I was there for 3 or 4 days I think, and loved the weather (I visited in July). Much to my surprise, the surrounding countryside was breathtaking. My most vivid memories of Darwin though, are the haunting images from Christmas Day 1974. As an 11 year living in northern NSW, the destruction of Darwin by Cyclone Tracy is my earliest recollection of the sheer ferocity of nature. Although I did not know it at the time, the images when viewed as an adult are similar to the images of the devastation of Germany at the end of WWII. I don't know if you recall the pop song Santa Never Made It Into Darwin sung by Bill & Boyd, which was released to help raise funds for the victims of the cyclone. To this day, hearing that song reduces me to tears, even though I was not personally affected but the cyclone. There was something about that catastrophe though which made it feel as if the whole of Australia had been on the receiving end. Now to this story. Toby - how many more head injuries can his 10 year old brain withstand? He is a remarkably happy child given what life has dished out to him to date. Uncle James and Tim - is there a reason for the return of Tim? The two have retained a friendship and seem to have a common goal of providing opportunities for others. Is a rekindling of their romantic relationship in the offing? I look forward to more adventures in the life of these most interesting of characters (but please no more injuries for Toby).

I share your concern @Paqman.

A very thought-provoking chapter @Wombat Bill which has left me in a quandary. Twice I have read Jared's explanation as to why he took the job as Virginia's provider of "intimate services", but I am still somewhat baffled by his explanation. My initial reaction was he was merely stroking his ego which had been damaged by Thomas' "betrayal"; however, his statement that he wanted to be near Thomas and that he "needed a sexual outlet and a distraction from you but I didn’t want another man" is that of a man who is more complex and not as self-assured as he would have you believe. I am still undecided, but am leaning towards forgiving him for his behaviour as he appears to possess a vulnerability he has kept hidden for too long. I look forward to what @chris191070, @ReaderPaul and @NimirRajmay make of his explanation. Both Virginia and Jonathan are becoming increasingly introspective. His display of insecurity and self-deprecation in his discussion with Jared revealed a man who is not the totally self-centred, spoilt, arrogant prick he has presented in previous interactions. He may be salvageable yet. I have one minor complaint though @Wombat Bill. You did not reveal the outcome of Jared's visit to his parents and the examination of his birth certificate. I trust this WILL be revealed in a subsequent chapter or there may be a revolt.

@Wombat BillI have certainly heard the professional description trolley dolly and Qantas queen before, but cart tart is not one I am familiar with. Another I have heard, which I daresay you may have also heard is, space waitress. It has not struck me before, the similarity between Edward and Brett. The latter has on occasion let loose his acerbic tongue, but until his "attack" on Rani, it had not really been personal that I can recall. Perhaps if he were to meet Edward, his apprenticeship could begin, although there may also be fireworks I suspect as the two may engage in a game of one-upmanship. That could produce some riotous moments. Another educating moment from your pen. I had never heard the expression 'waxing and waning moon'. I looked it up on the 'net not expecting to find anything, only to find it is "a thing". It sounds like the title of a song written by Irving Berlin or Cole Porter. The latter no doubt could have woven into a lust-filled ditty of "shocking" proportions.

"With that he strode away, the darkness closing behind him like a black cloak." set the tone for much of this chapter, illustrating the physical and emotional turmoil felt not only by Avery and Lee, but also to a lesser extent by Greg, Anna and Bill. In contrast to the sombre tone though, Avery and Lee have both emerged battle scarred, but triumphant, from the wreckage of their shared drug-taking episode. They might not even realise it yet, but both have experienced a MAJOR turning point in their lives, one which will continue their journey to recovery. Avery, at the risk of great personal cost, told Anna and Bill the truth. Anna and Bill although no doubt disappointed in Avery, rewarded him with what he so desperately needs, love, self-respect and a sense of his own worth. I predict great things for this trio, the full realisation of a nurturing and loving family. Lee, in a demonstration of the extraordinary affect Avery and Greg have had on him and his sense of self-worth, finally escaped the clutches of Eddie of his own volition. Given the perilous physical state he is in at present he won't realise this, but this is the day that he has kicked his inner-demons to the kerb. I predict his recovery will be slow and painful, but the friendships he has found at Camp Refuge will strengthen his resolve. @Wayne Gray I did not think it possible you could write another phrase with such emotional force as when you wrote "He's my friend" in the previous chapter. That statement was heartbreaking. But, it seems I was wrong yet again. You surpassed yourself in this chapter with "You ... you came for me?" Lee stared, glassy-eyed up at Greg. "I'm dreaming. Dreaming." With this one statement you have portrayed the true misery of Lee's life to date, the heartfelt despair of his existence. This reader "lost it" completely when reading it. It was a moment worthy of Ash & Ember.

"Waxing and Waning" - very clever name @Wombat Bill. I had to look up what waning meant. I had heard the word before, but it is not one that is used in spoken or printed word very often. Another notch for your literary belt - educating your readers. Although Rani has "blotted her copy book" (what a polite way to state she fucked up), I would not write her off just yet. She strikes me as wanting to impress the boss, and her reaction to Brett's behaviour was supported by Sandra. Daniel as the token straight male would I think offer many comedic opportunities, especially given his profession. Similarly, Jeremy and Brett's new business is bound to provide many opportunities for your penchant for humour.

I had the same thought as you @chris191070 with regard to your latter statement. The only sexual act I can imagine Virginia and Jonathan engaging in would be if she were pegging him, and this assumes he will bottom. I don't recall there being any prior indication that he is bisexual, perhaps our writer has kept this from us as a surprise (assuming my recollection is correct). The only other scenario I can imagine is Jonathan watching whilst Virginia has sex with Desmond (a la Anthony Perkins as the priest in Ken Russell's Crimes Of Passion), with or without Desmond's knowledge, although I have to say I would be surprised if Virginia would countenance deceiving Desmond as I believe she still has strong feelings for him. @Wombat Bill Dean and Andy - a resounding yes from this reader; Raj and Juanito - a cautious yes; Thomas and Jared - a cautious yes. I was so in favour of Thomas and Jared rekindling their relationship (I "borrowed" this from you @chris191070)shortly after they split, but I am ambivalent about Jared now and have been for some time. I would say to Thomas - proceed with caution. @Wombat Bill the "teaser" is perfect. Trips to the Gold Coast were once a favourite of mine as was lazing by the pool. Now you have me in a state of melancholy, much like Edward in the last chapter. Morning lie in's are a favourite any day of the week, any time of year. Morning's and I have never been, and never will be, friends. Bitter enemies yes.

I sense Dale's gaydar is pinging already, hence the "accidental" knee brushing and thigh touching with his pinky finger. Hunter's naivety is endearing, and he seems to be totally unaffected by his prowess on the sporting field. I daresay this will make him even more attractive to Dale. Mayson is an arsehole and needs to be "smacked into the middle of next week". Perhaps Hunter needs to adopt a little stereotypical jock behaviour and slug him.

A As an adult trips to Melbourne have primarily been for work conferences, with one weekend trip with friends. I looked up the T'Gallant wine you mentioned and the different varieties had good reviews. There was one which was $110.00 per bottle, which I would not pay, but the others all seemed very reasonably priced. I have spent upwards of $13,000.00 on my eldest three cats in the last 6-9 months, so expenditure on pets is something I do not begrudge, particularly if you save their life (as treatment of my third eldest did in August last year).

I have found no evidence of copyright infringement to date "W. Armistead Wombat"; what I have observed you have in common with your American "cousin" is the obvious joy of storytelling, and the love you have for the characters you paint (even the less likeable ones). I have long felt that Edward perceived himself as the "Fairy Godmother" of this motley little group. Although he has not always behaved admirably, I have long regarded him as such, and not just because of the age difference between he and the remainder of "the group". Beneath the veneer of the "bitchy old queen" persona is someone who cares deeply about the rest of "the group" as is so strongly evident in this chapter. Although his personal circumstances and character bear little resemblance to Maupin's most extraordinary of characters, the wonderful Anna Madrigal, I feel Edward and Anna share this "Fairy Godmother" role. Again, it is perhaps because they are significantly older than the rest of their respective family groups, but I don't think it is limited to this. The attribute I think you share most with your American "cousin" though is the conversational style of your writing. I am not sure if this clearly expresses how if affects me, but I can hear the conversations between the characters, and it is not just the words that are spoken. On many occasions the experience is surreal, almost as if I am present in the situation the characters find themselves in. I don't think my sanity is slipping, I think it is because the characters are just so "real", one can identify with many of them to varying degrees.

@Wombat Bill your CWB groupies have spoken, the verdict is unanimous - this chapter is peerless, it defies superlatives. In my haste to write my comments yesterday (I was the first "cab off the rank" for the first time ever I think, not that I am the competitive type), I failed to appreciate the "teaser" at the end of the chapter. Of course, if I had appreciated it, I would not have made the gaffe suggesting this might be the perfect place to end the "second book". Clearly that is not your intention otherwise the "teaser" would not appear; unless of course you are being very naughty and really teasing your faithful readers. I often have an idea of what the "teaser" signifies, but am more often than not wrong. I particularly like this though as the reality is most often superior to what my imagination has limited it to. I also neglected to mention the budding relationship between Andy and Dean in my comments yesterday. Fortunately @NimirRaj has noted it in his comments, thus prompting me to acknowledge it now. I for one am very pleased this has occurred as I sense Andy is somewhat lonely and insecure, but ultimately is a very likeable character. Although you have revealed little of Dean's character to date, I have a sense he will be a good match for Andy, and I look forward to him making a contribution to the "group" and getting a "bigger gig" in this wonderful tale. @ReaderPaul's comment" I don't think Jared will be in any hurry to get back in bed with Thomas. Too much activity with Thomas could impair his ability to "get it up" for Mrs. P by giving him mixed feelings" stimulated my "little grey cells". Whilst I agree with his comments regarding Jared's capacity to pleasure Virginia, my "crystal ball" predicts that Virginia is going to seek her pleasure elsewhere e.g. a reunification, with a greater degree of permanency, with Desmond, whom I believe could well be her "great love". Her desire for Jared's "intimate services" would no longer be, although he may be retained as her personal trainer. This would "free him up" to devote his carnal talents to Thomas, although I am still in two minds as to whether he deserves Thomas. @Wombat BillI look forward, with much "an-tic-i-pation" to your dissection of the comments made by your CWB groupies on this chapter.

Well that is the first BIG shock of this increasingly twisted tale of greed, deceit, manipulation and criminality. I assumed the adult involved in the threesome depicted in the Prologue was either Richard or Bernie Hudson. I was just soooooooooo wrong. I did not see that one coming at all @grahamsealby.It makes me doubt some of my other assumptions now. Clever, clever, writing. Looking forward to more of this suspenseful tale.

Well @grahamsealby I got the identify of Zumba wrong. I thought Zumba was the criminal or criminal organisation that was laundering its money through Shepherd Ministries, and Cynthia its contact. I was right about the drug trafficking from Asia, although I must admit I did not think the criminal was of Vietnamese descent. The only "positive" from this chapter was Lan's thought he would rather murder Cynthia than her son. I have no doubt she and Bernie are just as expendable as Paul, and I would not lose any sleep if both she and Bernie, but more particularly Cynthia, found themselves the victim of their "master's" evil.

The plot thickens; Shepherd Ministries is laundering money for Zumba (identity unknown, but I have my suspicions as to who Zumba is/are). I strongly suspect some of their dirty money is from the opium den Paul visits. I envisage they are also involved in the importation of illegal drugs from Asia, trafficking underage girls (and maybe boys) from Asia for sale to pedophiles and to work in illegal brothels, illegal gambling and possibly wildlife smuggling. Cynthia is pure evil, a modern day Medea; Bernie a eunuch; and Paul, not surprisingly, severely disturbed. I don't care what happens to either Cynthia or Bernie, other than it renders them both facing death head on with no resources at their disposal. Paul has redeemed himself somewhat in this chapter, but he has essentially "dug his own grave" by allowing himself to be cajoled by his viperous mother into the money laundering racket. Jaimee should run a mile unless he wants to become embroiled in the turmoil ahead.

I have previously expressed an opinion that Cynthia is a viper or a runt with a capital C. I was wrong, she is the spawn of Satan. Paul's revelation that she "can't stand either dogs or cats" is testament to the type of person she is. If she has any involvement, either directly or indirectly, in the murder of the dog revealed in the Prologue, then no amount of pain and suffering is enough for her to have to bear. I still do not trust Paul. His remark "‘Bloody hell! Fifteen hundred bucks! For a dog." was I believe his real feelings on Jaimee's impending expenditure on Mickey's dental work. His quick follow up remark "I’d really love to have a dog though; I can see how much Mickey means to you. I’m sorta jealous.’ was about as believable as anything spouted by Donald Trump. I think Paul is very shrewd and calculating, and will do anything to get what he wants, which at the moment is Jaimee. Jaimee appears to be starstruck by Paul at the moment, not a good basis for the relationship with Paul that appears to be "in the cards" for him. @grahamsealby your assessment of Mount Martha appears to have been true, if anything, perhaps underestimated. I viewed it on the 'net and it looks very picturesque and a great location. The beach boxes only add to its appeal. I have been to Melbourne on a number of occasions, but do not recall ever having ventured further afield than Avalon Airport (and then only by necessity). I have read of the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula on many occasions, and it certainly rings true for Mount Martha if the 'net is any guide.

@Wombat Bill I think you have surpassed yourself with this chapter. Beautifully written and awash with so much emotion, much of it centred around Edward. Melancholic Edward reminiscence of the formation of the "group" had me reaching for a sleeve to wipe the tears. Witty Edward came to the fore with the nippleware competition and his comedic judging thereof. Romantic Edward rejoiced in his observations of the growing attraction between Raj and Juanito, and the apparent reigniting of the attraction between Thomas and Jared. Prophetic (perhaps) and protective Edward awakened to the striking resemblance between Justin and Jared, and in a moment of "parental" love, realised they were the sons he would be so proud to have. I don't know your intentions for the future of this tale with timeless appeal @Wombat Bill, but I think this could be the perfect end to the "second book", with the "third book" to take up where this one has left off. I am constantly reminded in reading this wonderful work of the marvellous Tales Of The City series written by your American "cousin", Armistead Maupin. Much like the characters in his novels, the characters you have painted have become like "family" to this reader at least. The "emoji rating system" is totally inadequate for this chapter, so a rating of 'Love' will have to suffice.

It looks fairly innocuous @Wombat Bill. It is hard to believe it is made from suet.

I remember eating this once as a child @chris191070 and it was OK. I would not dream of eating it now given that it contains suet. It is one of a number of traditional dishes from the UK with quirky names. I have also eaten 'toad in the hole' once (did not like it), 'bubble and squeak' many times (horrid), 'jam roly-poly' several times (it was OK), but have never eaten 'faggot' (I refused to eat offal even as a child growing up in rural Australia, and I particularly disliked pork when I was forced to eat meat). It is funny how our tastes change as we get older. I quite liked custard as a child, even custard tarts; now the thought of eating custard makes me gag, same with jam roly-poly.

Another very enjoyable chapter @Andre Delport with my favourite cheeky little character, Rascal, making a few appearances and "stealing the show" each time he does. I must say all the "cast" seem to eat an enormous amount of food. I like the fact that you include a significant amount of local cuisine in the story too; it makes for interesting reading and, encourages me to do a little research on South African cuisine. Although I am vegetarian, I do like some of the exotic names for the various meat/fish featured. I was glad to see the inclusion of some vegetarian cuisine at the New Year's Eve banquet at The Cameron. I researched the lentil and butternut bootie online, and apart from the eggs, it sounds absolutely delicious. I agree with @drsawzall, Joan and Dan appear to be delightful and very down-to-earth for a couple who must have more money than they know what to do with. I was particularly impressed with Dan's concern for the welfare of his employees in the factory fire.

@Wombat Bill Perhaps Justin and Craig, with assistance from Cynthia and her team and/or Virginia Price, could hold a major charity event to fund raise for Fire Rescue NSW and the NSW Rural Fire Service for essential equipment and anything else needed, given our useless fucking Federal Government were apparently unable to afford to assist. Of course, they were far too busy donating taxpayer dollars to the likes of Hillsong Church if the latest reports are to be believed (and excuse me for the terrible and in this case tasteless pun, but where there is smoke there is usually fire).

Why thank you @ReaderPaul. Your comments were posted whilst I was preparing mine and I did not read them until I had posted mine. I am now editing my comments accordingly. I invariably take a long time to write my comments as I edit, spellcheck, delete and rewrite until I am satisfied. I think my comments on this occasion are quite tame compared to the usual nonsense I write. I do like some of your plot suggestions for our beloved author. I particularly like the idea of incorporating the bushfires of late 2019/early 2020 into the story in future. They were truly horrendous, with a catastrophic loss of animal life. If @Wombat Bill is to incorporate into the story, it would have to be with great care as I don't think it is something that could be used for the sake of humour, which is one of our author's greatest writing gifts. Outstanding chapter @Wombat Bill. I think Rani handled the situation with Jeremy and Brett very poorly, however, it worked to their advantage. The mobile service for beauty treatments is a superb idea; I am sure it will be a winner. I have a home visit vet for my brood and she is rewarded with an enormous amount of business for this service (and not just from me). 'Cocktales' sounds like it will not only be a fun-filled event, but could help bridge a gap that is, and always has been, very wide in the gay community. I was certainly guilty of ageism when I was in my 20's and early 30's, but now in my late 50's realise the youth-obsession that many gay men have is not only very unhealthy, it can also deprive them of many potentially wonderful experiences with older gay men (and not all of them sexual). The event could be educational for all those who attend. I am also very glad to see Max and Charles make another appearance. I am guessing that 'Cocktales' will be the event where the two become closer to Craig and Justin and form a friendship, a friendship which led to their eventual wedding as so beautifully portrayed in Max and Charles, my first exposure to the enjoyment to be gained from your writing talents @Wombat Bill.