Summerabbacat

A very emotionally charged chapter @gdaniel. Papa Whittington certainly put the sister(s) in her/their place when comments were made about the boys behaving "inappropriately". The reactions of the boys' siblings was a pleasant surprise, more particularly that of Bob. It appears Papa Whittington's concern Bob may not be as accepting of his brother as he and his wife are was misplaced. The rescue had me in tears; Dan's act of selflessness truly remarkable. He may be the smaller of the two boys, but his bravery was boundless in saving his beloved Samuel. A delightful chapter yet again @gdaniel. I am not sure that a dozen will be sufficient to satisfy your follower's though. We may have to revolt and demand more.

No professional training. Perhaps this why your "evocative descriptions" work so well; your mind has not been polluted by "experts". The landscape and culture conveyance has worked all in ALL your stories. Your economy with words is so often remarkable. I shall have to revisit your "back catalogue" again, particularly The Summer of the Firefly to view your growth as an author. I have read works by other authors on GA where I have noted a very significant change in their writing skills as their confidence grew, but was only able to do this with "binge" reading. With your works I have read them as you published them, so serenely happy was I to return to Ravello with "old friends" without delay.

“It’s hard for you, isn’t it?” Gianni said. Marco gave him a puzzled look. “What is?” “Letting people look after you.” Marco looked a little thrown by the question. “I…” Gianni gave him a reassuring rub on the shoulder. “Don’t worry about it,” he said. “But… we all need a bit of looking after, sometimes.” Marco shrugged. “I wouldn’t know.” “Go on,” Gianni urged. “Get involved. Dani’s right – you’ll feel better for it.” “All right.” This had me reaching for those virtual tissues again @James Carnarvon . Gianni is so sensitive to Marco's woes. Perhaps Gianni recognises a little of himself in Marco. I don't know what you have planned for Marco, but I would so like him to one day be "The Mouse That Roared". He has been downtrodden for so long, malaise has become second nature. I hope to see Patrizia, Elena and Gianni follow through on staging an intervention, with perhaps the priest (whose name I simply cannot remember) brought in as reinforcement. Between them surely they could knock some sense (literally if need be) into Marco's parents' heads. If this cannot be, then perhaps a more suitable living environment can be found for Marco. Perhaps Gianni and Angelo can adopt Marco (insisting Lorenzo and Gemma surrender their parental rights) and Reza and Tiziana can adopt Sami. There you go James and fellow readers, problems sorted. Another fine chapter @James Carnarvon. Even though I hate the cold and just cannot understand the appeal of snow, I loved your description of the "pale golden sun that blushed the trees and whitewashed buildings from the gaps between the cotton-wool clouds." You may have indicated previously in chapter comment, but have you done a professional writing course or tertiary studies in literature, journalism or the like?

I had to laugh @scrubber6620and @Biff Spork as The Wiggles are a popular children's entertainment group formed in my hometown, Sydney, Australia, in 1991. I believe they are known internationally so you both may have heard of them, depending on your country of residence. It seems with some of the attacks the animals are starting to mimic human behaviour i.e. random attacks for no apparent reason. I can understand the attack on the farmer trying to separate the calf from its mother and the alligator attacks, but the raccoon attack seemed totally unprovoked. I cannot find fault with the animals for doing this though as they have been under attack from humans for such a long time. Celia had an epiphany; she is conflicted with what to do about Zhiv (Sol). Professionally she wants to swoop in and rescue him, personally she is challenging the notion he needs rescuing. As noted by @scrubber6620 in his first comment above, both Hector and Celia will be pleasantly surprised when they meet David at dinner tonight. I am eager to see what Pete is going to say to David now he has concluded David is visiting Jana Mountain to meet with Zhiv (Sol). I don't believe Pete will have any "moral" objection to any relationship which may be forming between the two; I think his overriding concern will be for the safety of David, and also the safety of Zhiv. He knows only too well the pressure that is being applied by parties with vested interests to "sort out this animal problem". I hate both Art Jameson and Jude Bedford, but for some reason I felt some sadness for each in this chapter. Art's world is falling apart and I think he knows it. He knows no other way to live than how he has been living. Jude has little to redeem himself and is inherently a horrible person, but he has also been influenced by his upbringing and knows no other way to live. I won't be sad though if any of the animals have the opportunity to turn on either or both of them, especially Jude. @Biff SporkI don't recall ever reading a story with so much conflicting beauty and ugliness, sanity and insanity, and love and hate. It is truly wonderful, stimulating and inspirational, soothing and traumatising. I have also learned a bit about myself reading this wonderful tale, and some of what I have learned (or perhaps it would be more accurate to say had reinforced) is not necessarily attractive. I am my own harshest critic (as I am so often reminded by friends and colleagues) so am trying to "be kind to myself" for my perceived imperfections (I have not been able to give up dairy cheese, but have reduced my consumption noticeably).

Maybe not better @drsawzall, but likely more eloquently.

You raise a very good question @pvtguy. Sami may not be Muslim, he could be Christian or he could be Jewish, particularly if his family fled Ethiopia. Jews formed 50% of the population in Ethiopia at one point in history. I can only but imagine the persecution they face in that part of the world now, particularly given so many Northern African countries seem to be politically unstable and ruled by despots.

Although I do not share Pop's religious beliefs, in all fairness I cannot ridicule him for having such beliefs. He has not shown himself to be pious or judgmental of his fellow humans, citing biblical text to justify condemnation of those who do not live in accordance with said text, particularly the more extreme Old Testament nonsense. He has shared his beliefs, but the sharing appears to have been largely restricted to a like minded audience, generally with the purpose of providing comfort or as a celebration. He has also shown himself capable of independent thought and of personal growth on issues such as homosexuality. He may not be able to start a megachurch empire or nominate himself as a Republican candidate in the south, but he will be able to hold his head up high and know that unlike the aforementioned, he has lived his life in accordance with basic Christian principles as I understand them. I am sad to see the end of this story @gdaniel, but agree it is a "natural" place to conclude it. The adoption did not surprise me, although the addition of Dan's family name did.

I have been very remiss in my comments above @James Carnarvon. I forgot to mention the "second coming" of the story title. On this occasion I felt it was even more apt and so genuinely heartfelt I had to reach for the "virtual tissues" again (I try not to use the "real thing" as they are so wasteful). “It’s just… you’re still the star in my eye, Gianni. You’re still the one my world revolves around." Imagine having someone say that to you and mean it? And yes it was Angelo again showing his softer, more romantic side. Perhaps he has secretly been listening to some even older music than Pet Shop Boys, raconteurs of romance e.g. Carpenters, Captain & Tennille or ABBA (they are European after all), or maybe another one of my favourites, the ultimate 'Ambassador of Romance', the 'Guru of Love', Barry White. Whatever the catalyst for this grande amore, the relationship between Gianni and Angelo appears to be going from strength to strength, and I for one am very pleased.

The word holocaust means destruction or slaughter on a mass scale. Approximately 6 million Jews, homosexuals and gypsies were murdered by the Nazis in World War 2, without doubt an horrific genocide. I have read that in 2019 approximately 200 million chickens were killed each day for eating, with many more killed because they were excess to market demand or diseased. How is this not also a holocaust and how is racist to refer to it as a holocaust? When I read statistics like this I am reminded of Isaac Singer's quote that I have mentioned when commenting on a prior chapter "All other creatures were created merely to provide him with food, pelts, to be tormented, exterminated. In relation to them, all people are Nazis; for the animals it is an eternal Treblinka.” To say the animal rights group were racist for writing what they did is another example of speciesism at its ugliest. Doreen. What a woman, what a mother, what a spouse. Her treatment of River warmed my heart. That poor boy is soooooooooooo desperate for some affection and kindness; what little he got from his father appears to have evaporated with the death of Ricky and the apparent vegetative state of Nicky. Unfortunately I think things will "go south" for Zhiv and David as feared by @scrubber6620. Zhiv is a perceived threat to so many powerful groups, with much money to be lost if he manages to convince even a small percentage of the populace to go vegan. The groups in question have shown no regard for the lives of animals. I don't think the demise of an orphan boy who lives naked in the forest will pose any moral dilemma to these groups either, so long as his death cannot be traced to their organisation they won't give a flying fuck. Superb chapter @Biff Spork. The growth in the importance of the message to be spread by Zhiv and David is akin to the growth in their relationship.

I must agree with @Ivor Slipper, @dutch woman and @drpaladin's comments regarding serving Sami pork. Gianni is assuming Sami’s parents were observant Muslim’s and had begun to teach Sami what was acceptable food and what was not. Perhaps they were not observant. I have several Muslim work colleagues and a number of Jewish friends all of whom will not eat pork in any form, except they all love bacon and eat it (this I cannot understand). Gianni is motivated as usual by trying to do what he thinks is the “right thing” and make everyone feel welcome and happy, but unfortunately it backfired. I don’t think he should have refrained from serving pork to appease any religious objections Sami may have, rather he should have discussed with Sami before serving the meal if his parents had taught him that to eat pork was unacceptable. If they had not taught him this, then don't stop him from eating it for religious reasons. I will no doubt cause some of my fellow readers to think I am an uncaring bastard at best, but I felt profoundly sorry for Gianni and thought Sami behaved like a total brat. His tantrum at the dining table I could perhaps have forgiven, but to throw his camera and break it? No, that pissed me off and he should be punished for it. Angelo’s gift to Gianni had me shedding tears profusely. Gianni may be the “artistic one”, but Angelo has been revealing a much more emotional side to his character throughout this book, a side of his character which I admire greatly. @James Carnarvon I have to commend you once again on the quality and sensitivity of your writing in this chapter. Although I could not partake of the traditional English Christmas luncheon, which to a large extent still resembles the traditional Australian Christmas luncheon except with seafood and without Brussels sprouts, I did not feel nauseous when reading of what was eaten (and there are times when I do). Suffice to say the wholesale slaughter of non-human animals to “celebrate” Christmas and Easter is an anathema to me and not for any religious reasons.

The only part of the "modern strategic" game that I ever find of any interest (somewhat amusing) is one someone scores a goal, the scorer is "mobbed" and sometimes kissed by fellow teammates, who then suddenly appear to be embarrassed because they have done something "so gay".

I was surprised the boys and Pop talked so much about c u next Tuesday. I thought for sure Pop at least would find the word too offensive to even joke about. It is perhaps the only word left in the English language which carries any degree of offence. I find it very useful to describe hunters, gun lobbyists, right-wing politicians and just about anyone who pisses me off (this list grows longer as I live longer). And, it is a useful word to describe the "Robbie's" of this world too. I am continually amazed (and I don't know why) so many people are obsessed with the sex lives of others. I don't give a damn what activities other people enjoy (or don't as the case may be for some) in their bedroom (or anywhere else that takes their fancy). So long as there are no children or animals involved, they can do anything they wish with anyone (or as many as they like) at any time. The only thing I balk at is paying for any damage that is done to anybody who does something really stupid during sex play, such as some of the things people stick up their arse or women insert in their vaginas for pleasure e.g. glass bottles, baseball or cricket bats, bicycle handles. Really.

I don't think Hector means the animals of Jana Mountain any harm, his interest in them is purely zoological I believe. I don't think Celia means Zhiv any harm either, her desire to "rescue" and "civilise" him may be misguided, but I have come to believe she is doing what she thinks is best for him, even if he and others disagree. Erg and Berky are however, determined to deny both access to Zhiv and the forest. I find soccer a particularly tedious game (much like golf) and have only ever watched at most perhaps 5 minutes of each on TV. If the soccer players were as entertaining as the players in this chapter, it may be a game worth watching. Jude proves once again that the truth is an alien concept to him. River rightfully was wary of Hector, providing little useful information to a man he does not know and whose motives were not disclosed. I enjoyed this chapter as I enjoy all chapters of this important work @Biff Spork. It was a chapter with relatively little emotional turmoil, a welcome respite from the sadness and desperation of the most recent chapters. It will give me the opportunity to recharge and brace myself for the war which lies ahead, one in which I fear there will be many non-human persons perish.

Zhiv trembled. “I feel like we’re about to get sucked into the mouth of a huge machine, that we’re just a couple of kids who are gonna get chewed up. I’m afraid it’s gonna happen, but before it does, I want to be a boy with you for as long as possible. David, I’m so scared there’s not gonna be any cabin in the mountains for us. No rocking chairs on the porch. And that’s all I want.” Zhiv's yearning for lasting happiness, with joy from such simple pleasures, is heartbreaking to read. He is acutely aware of the danger he faces, yet he continues to face it. He is a truly remarkable boy, one who is an inspiration and at the same time makes one feel somewhat ashamed to voice such trite complaints in daily life. "Best of all, though, was that he was starting to feel better about himself. He hoped that meant he was turning into an okay boy." River's transformation is bringing him such joy, and yet he is still so uncertain of his worth. If a friendship with David develops it will likely increase his self-esteem. Pete's account to Doreen of "The Talk" was priceless. It is a testament to his humanity that he has settled into a vegan diet and now to realise he is OK if his son is gay. "Pete chuckled. “Not as much as I think I should. You’re right. I keep thinking it should bother me more than it does — I mean, the idea of him maybe being gay." I love how he still surprises himself, pleasantly so, with how much he has changed. He is a delight, just like his spouse and son. A mixed bag this chapter @Biff Spork. Much to enjoy, but the cloud of danger Zhiv believes hangs over him is ever present. I hope David continues to bring him boundless joy for whatever time the two have remaining.

I nominate Mr Russell for Dad of the Year, in fact, maybe Dad of the Decade. His frank discussion with Sam and Danny displayed once again how fortunate both are to have him in their lives. The boys explanation of what love meant to them was warm, funny and remarkable for their age. Danny's comment "I mean, I like the way he smells, even when he hasn't had a bath." had me in stitches. That sure sounds like real love to me. This story is similar to Growing Pains @gdaniel, but each story has its own unique attributes. I am finding each equally appealing.

"After several minutes of this, Sam's dad got up from his chair and knelt at his son's feet. As Sam looked at him without shame, fear or embarrassment, he made his decision. There was no way he couldn't love this boy and his friend, regardless of where their love for each other might take them. Well, I guess I know what those special times are, now, don't I, son." and "Yeah, dad. Thanks for being so understanding. Is mom OK with this?" "Yes, Sam, your mom and I love you dearly, and we're both Ok with this. I think Dan's mom and dad will be, too. But his dad may take a little longer to show it." Sam’s father is a revelation. I did not expect him to be so moved by is son’s love for another boy, let alone express he was OK with it, particularly given the story is set in the 1950’s. An emotional chapter for the boys, Sam’s dad and your readers too @gdaniel. I was not alive in the 1950’s but was a teenager in the late 1970’s. When I think of what I was like at a similar age to Sam and Danny, Sam and Danny are very innocent (and I was by no means well versed in the pleasures of the flesh). One often reads of how society “lost its innocence” after the sexual revolution of the late 1960’s; this is convincingly portrayed when reading this most charming of stories about two very likeable boys.

@gdaniel I agree with Pop that both couples, Mitchell and Tammy, and Jason and Alex, should be treated equally and have the same obligations and standards of behaviour to observe in the family home. Where I strongly disagree with him is his apparent blanket restriction on the couples having any oral or penetrative sexual contact with each other before marriage, although my beliefs regarding the form of the sexual contact would be subject to laws on the age of consent and if a crime is being committed by Pop if he allowed one or both couples to have oral or penetrative sex within the family home. My attitude has always been what I consider a practical one; teenagers are likely to have sex whether their parents approve of it or not. This is NOT as some would say giving them tacit approval to do so, it is recognising what may be the reality of the situation and refusing to bury one’s head in the sand because they have been told not to have sex. I believe if teenagers of any gender combination are going to have sex it is better the sex take place in the privacy of the family home, an environment where it is more likely to be hygienic, comfortable and safe, than somewhere potentially dangerous. It appears Alex’s father is not unlike Jason’s birth father, although to date his opposition to the relationship between his son and Jason does not appear as hateful and potentially violent as what Tom’s was likely to have been had he lived. Is his motivation a religious objection, a disappointment he may not have grandchildren or is it as is so often the case, the “anal sex” thing (as if this sexual practice is the exclusive domain of the gay men who practice it). Unless he is going to be a participant in or witness to the sexual relationship between his son and Jason, then what the fuck is his problem. Get over it Daddy and concentrate on your own sex life. I am not sure if your "invitation" to "heap it on me" at the end of this chapter was an invitation to share our opinions on Pop's "moral compass" @gdaniel. If it was not I apologise for having interpreted it as such. Whatever the intent, this was a very thought-provoking chapter; one that would no doubt stimulate very lively debate amongst readers in an open forum. Dare I say this is invariably a measure of an entertaining and successful author.

It appears to me Gianni's pressing desire to educate Sami about the cultural and religious beliefs of his birth parents is not necessarily shared by others, including Sami himself (he is only 7 or 8 years of age after all). Reza does not seem particularly concerned that Sami is not being made aware and he has more in common with Sami, at least as far as his religion at birth is concerned, than anyone else in Ravello. Whilst some may consider these artificial constructs crucially important, some do not. Perhaps Gianni should take a "chill pill" and let Sami be a child and respond to any questions he may have about these aspects of his former life if and when he raises them. If I may be so presumptuous to suggest Marco is more at risk than Sami. Gianni's desire to help others and his concern to make things "right" (an admirable quality to have) may be better applied to Marco's situation, something which in fairness to Gianni, he does recognise. Unless Marco is exaggerating the dire state of his home life, he could well use a friend like Gianni. I agree with @drpaladin, Giacomo is all about himself, but he always has been. He is now struggling because the two boys for whom he was the centre of their world, Dani and Marco, have formed an affection for each other. Life's tough sometimes Giacomo; deal with it. Ennio's "investigating the tree thoroughly with quivering whiskers and an expression of intense suspicion" gave me a great chuckle @James Carnarvon. I have never as an adult had a Christmas tree and would never contemplate getting one whilst I have at least one feline family member. I can only but imagine the demolition of baubles, lights and tinsel that would take place at the paws of my now youngest cat (she is 10 but acts like a 2-3 year old). I half expected Alfredo to pee on the tree, but alas he did not. Perhaps he will pee on the dreaded Brussels sprouts instead (now wouldn't that be a shame).

I don't believe Jude thinks he did anything wrong, therefore, he has nothing to be sorry for. I think his expression of sorrow was merely sorrow that he was exposed and made feel uncomfortable by Pete, whom he blamed for making him feel gloomy. Conversely, River has been wracked by guilt and shame. He acknowledged his lies to Pete and expressed great remorse that he had participated in the harming of David. River and Pete have much in common. Both have made a very significant transformation in their belief that animals are resources for humans to exploit for food, entertainment and experimentation. Pete and Doreen could be very positive role models for River if things continue to go south at the pig production hellhole. Pete was inspirational in "The Talk" with David. David's question at the end, hilarious and beautiful in its naïveté. Pete to his credit took the question in his stride, although he was unable to answer it. He did not dismiss David's question nor did he try to bluff his way through it. Another compelling chapter @Biff Spork. And that title, a very clever play on words.

@scrubber6620 I invariably read each chapter of this wonderful story twice before commenting, primarily to ensure I missed nothing the first time. Given how dense this story is, I find I often miss something the first time or interpret a scene or a phrase differently on the second occasion. I found, very much to my surprise, I wept for the death of Ricky and the apparent near-death of his twin Nicky, on the second read. Very little has been revealed about either to date, although what has been revealed has made me think they are likely very similar to their father, an arsehole. However, on second reading I wondered if the death of their mother may have removed whatever "positive" influence they may have had in life. It is the old story of nature vs nurture. I so want to loathe all those in this story who are cruel to animals, and for the most part I do, but perhaps Ricky and Nicky were victims too, victims of their odious father. As noted by you, River is becoming increasingly troubled by his prior behaviour towards David, and not just his behaviour at the gravel pit. I am not excusing his behaviour, but he has not had the benefit of parents like Doreen and Pete, both of whom set a wonderful example for David. Pete surprised yet again when "He turned his car towards Burger Baron. He’d heard they had one of those new fake meat burgers on their menu." He has embraced becoming vegan with a passion which continues to amaze and impress me in equal measure. Sheriff Morgan is revealing himself to be a most extraordinary man too. His enquiry of Zhiv "Sol?” called the sheriff, “Are you okay? Are you having a good time?” Zhiv laughed. “Better than you, I think.” “Is everything okay with you? I mean food and shelter, and like that.” “Thank you, sir. Yes, everything’s okay with me.” “How about clothes? Can I bring you some clothes?” offered the sheriff." impressed me greatly. He appeared to be genuinely concerned for Zhiv's welfare. He followed this with “You know, Pete, most of the time I like my job. I feel good about what we do because we have good laws and it’s our job to uphold them. But whenever I see that boy it’s like I see a gap between the law and justice, a gap between what’s legal and what’s right.“He’s naked in public. He’s an unaccompanied minor, a runaway from a state-approved foster home. He’s riding a murderous horse that belongs to the widow Wilkins, and he’s guiding a bunch of renegade pigs into a state park. Given that Deputy Frankl ordered him to stop, and he didn’t stop, we could probably charge him with resisting arrest too. He's breaking laws that I’ve sworn to uphold, but whenever I see him, I know that what he’s doing, what he is, is right, and that while he’s breaking some of our laws, he has justice on his side.” These words moved me tremendously @Biff Spork. I can only but wish the Sheriff may be able to protect Zhiv from the forces of evil which I fear will bring about his demise. A most wonderful chapter @Biff Spork.

I think it may only be a matter of time @gdaniel before Mitchell and Jason raise the issue of their adoption with Pop. If this be the case, there will be not a trickle of tears, it will be a torrential downpour with the three of them cyclonic. The "fair-minded" person in me, who usually gives some consideration to what is socially acceptable or the norm, is pleased Pop continues to reinforce to Mitchell that his father, Tom, was primarily a good person and father, who like us all had his faults. The less "fair-minded" person (who is primarily the stronger of the two when it comes to animal rights, gay rights, workers rights and the environment) says "fuck him", he was an arsehole. If you want to discount all the good he did and focus on his extreme homophobia, go ahead. An enjoyable read again @gdaniel. This is becoming a habit with your literary works.

“Gianni looked hopefully up into his partner’s dark eyes. “So… you think I’m strong, like a warrior?” Angelo’s mouth quirked into a familiar half-smile. “No, you’re a pussycat. But even pussycats can be strong sometimes.” I did not think it possible Gianni could be any more adorable, but it appears he is. Gianni’s gifts for Angelo were a mixture of amusing and wonderful. Introspective by the Pet Shop Boys because Gianni’s father liked them (it makes me feel old as I bought it when it was released), the amusing socks and the beautiful commissioned ceramic bowl hand-made by Elena; the latter a priceless gift. And Sami’s gift, a delight. "Confronted with Sami’s smiling face, he glanced away for a moment, before managing to look at the little boy again with an embarrassed laugh. It could have been a trick of the morning sunlight, but his dark eyes definitely looked a little brighter than usual. Gianni stared at him in amazement. Is he getting… emotional?Gianni had always doubted Angelo’s investment in their little family, but… maybe he had been wrong.” Angelo’s reserved nature on display again, with just a little crack appearing in his calm demeanour, making him even more attractive than ever too. Sami’s relationship with the older teens is reminiscent of Daniele’s friendship with Toto, Michele and Claudia when he first moved from Milan to Ravello. It is pleasing he is likely to form a connection with Luca due to their shared adoption, but I hope he does not forget about Dani and more particularly Marco. Marco is already starting to feel left out as if Sami is going to desert him. His self-esteem which appeared to be on the improve for a while, appears to be spiralling downward again. I guess this is hardly surprising given his home life. “How are things at home?” Giacomo asked the other boy quietly. Despite his best efforts to look away, Gianni sensed their eyes on him once again. He glanced back at them just in time to see Marco shrug slightly. “It’s okay,” Marco replied. “Gianni knows.” Giacomo nodded in relief. “So…” “They’re mostly ignoring me,” Marco mumbled. “But… what else is new?” If Marco is being truthful, then his mother is just as negligent as his father. She may not be bullying him like his father, but negligence takes on many forms. I don’t understand why humans have children only to then ignore them. Many will try and assuage their guilt by giving the children material things to compensate, but in Marco’s case even this is not happening because of his parents’ low paying jobs. “The vegetable garden was dormant in its bare winter clothes, with just a few withered tomato plants awaiting their spring renewal. A few long, dried-out cucuzza squashes hung from faded vines draped over a chestnut pergola that spanned the concrete staircase leading down through the terraces. All the same, under the pale starlight, the view was beautiful.” How do you do it @James Carnarvon? How do you turn something so plain and bare into a picture of beauty. @drsawzall said it best, a masterclass in wordsmithing.

@gdaniel now I understand your liberal and dare I say sane religious beliefs. The church that gave the world John Shelby Spong. I listened to him once give a talk at a gay bookshop in the centre of the gayborhood in Sydney in the mid-1980s during the height of AIDS "hysteria". He left a lasting impression on me, particularly as those present included the Sydney Anglican chapter of the Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence, with whom he was joking and speaking freely. I had never in my life been exposed to a Christian who spoke positively about the GLBT community.

Doreen and ‘Muscles’ get along so well. ‘Muscles’ is so mature for his age. I am glad he is going to disclose his relationship with Zhiv to Pete as I have a feeling Zhiv is going to need some adults genuinely “in his corner” and I feel Doreen and Pete will if needed be there for him and David. Neither the Sheriff nor Pete seem keen to “recapture” Sol to return him to “civilised" society. I think once David discloses more information to Pete about Zhiv he will be even less enthused about recapturing him. I am ambivalent regarding Celia Duffy. I don’t want to assume she is a bad person because she wants Sol recaptured, but I have to wonder what her primary motivation for desiring this is. Is it because she believes it is for the good of Sol or is she driven by ego? She has previously mentioned Sol was her one failure in her career to date. I believe her motivation is likely a combination of both. I don’t think she is a bad person; however, I doubt she could ever truly appreciate the torture it would be for Zhiv to live in a “civilised” society again when said society has little regard for animals and the environment. I am glad David is aware he and Zhiv are somewhat “out of their league”. "He felt he and Zhiv were playing in a game far out of their league. They knew what the animals felt and thought, but they had little idea of who their opponents were or what they wanted. They knew there were forces resisting change, but those forces were faceless. He and Zhiv needed help to understand what was likely to happen as a result of the mara's decision. They had thousands of animal friends, but they needed some human allies." Those forces may be faceless and resisting change, but they are very powerful, wealthy and have politicians peddling their lies. A beautiful chapter @Biff Spork concluded with one of the most joyous events to date in this story, a declaration of love by each of the boys for the other; and the funniest line to date in this story. “How do you feel about that?” persisted David, as he handed Zhiv a fresh bag of corn chips. Zhiv tore the bag open. “They’re great chips, but I wish they were in a compostable package.” I was in stitches reading this. Zhiv is so unaffected by social norms, it was not necessary in his mind to declare his love for David in words. He had, as far as he was concerned, made such a declaration on many prior occasions with actions and meeting of their minds in the mara. 🥰🥰🥰

“I stood in the doorway for a long time, marveling at how beautiful two boys that age can be in the position they were in. I also marveled at how much I had changed over the past few years. Five years before, I would have reacted so much differently. As I looked at my son, well, almost my son... sort of... kind of... and his boyfriend, I realized I liked the new me.” And well you should like the new me Dan. Your sons’ are fortunate to have you as their father, even if the familial tie is not biological. I can only imagine the misery Mitchell's and Jason's lives would have been if their sperm donor had remained alive to tyrannically rule over their formative teenage years, filling their heads with even more of his bigoted views. Every chapter reveals more to astonish and dislike about Tom. Dan’s comment to Jason about him was priceless, “We all have our faults, and being homophobic was one of your dad's. Just try to remember the good parts and leave the trash behind” must be amongst the very best shade ever thrown; it is even more powerful because I am sure it was not Dan’s intention to diss Tom in any way. I hope Tom's piety extended to him not eating pork or shellfish and ensuring his SWAT uniform was not made of mixed fabrics. Given his fervent opposition to “faggots, queers, gays” I am prepared to stick my neck out and say the only passage in Leviticus he was concerned with, in fact obsessed with, was the one he cited to condemn the aforementioned. So often people of his ilk “cherry pick” biblical dogma to support their nonsensical beliefs. I also have to wonder if Tom may have been a little concerned about his own sexuality. This could explain his extreme vitriol. For his own sake, as well as the sake of both his sons and Alex, Tom is fortunate to have perished prematurely. Had he lived and behaved in accordance with his beliefs I think there may have been a queue to kick his arse, headed by Dan, followed perhaps by Alex’s father and likely the pastor of the church. I wonder if his wife, Nancy, shared his views. Had she not she well may have kicked him to the kerb too (if she had any sense). What troubles me most is this psychopathic cretin was also a member of a SWAT team. Presumably he was licenced to carry a gun and use it. He would have fit perfectly into Team Marjorie, Team Lauren or Team Ron. Another lively and splendidly written chapter @gdaniel Tom’s beliefs and those of many like him, reinforce my own dislike and distrust of most organised religion. If you want "fake news" just listen to the excrement which spews from the mouths of such people.