Summerabbacat

Depression, desperation and heroin, not a good combination. No wonder Paul has the tremors. Time will tell if he has been emotionally poisoned by the viperous Cynthia and the ineffective Bernard. Certainly his intellect appears healthy, although I am not sure I completely trust his motives yet; he may be as manipulative as his mother, although there are indications that this is not the case. @grahamsealby I like the way you are building this story; it is almost like peeling an onion, you are taking off the outer layers to reveal what lies at the heart within.

This is not a criticism, but I feel like I have read this story many times before. However, if this chapter is any indication of the plot line, this story has a crucial, and ultimately more interesting difference, it appears to reverse the usual stereotypes i.e. it does NOT appear to be the story of an obnoxious closeted jock who is paired with, and initially bullies, an angst-ridden gay nerd in an attempt to retain his sporting scholarship, and subsequently finds himself falling in love/lust with said gay nerd. In addition, this story is much better written. @FrankD you are off to a very good start with this story. I look forward to reading more, particularly if the ensuing chapters are as enjoyable as this first one.

I do not doubt the sincerity of your wish @ReaderPaul; I happen to share the sentiment. Unfortunately, I think there is as much chance of this happening as there is of the human animal universally recognising the worth of non-human animals and ceasing to eat them, wear them, experiment on them, use them for entertainment or any other hideous use thereof.

The word viper or runt with a capital C comes to mind with the description of Cynthia. She certainly appears to be the "driving force" behind the desire for Shepherd Ministries to succeed at all costs. I wonder if she has some "dirt" on her husband which could ruin his reputation if he were to be exposed, hence his acquiescence to her "running the show". I also have to wonder if he is Paul's biological father given their disparate physical appearances. The "drama queen' in me thinks that Bernard is gay and Cynthia is his beard; she either had an extra-marital affair or was pregnant with Paul before she married Bernard. A lavender marriage would suit them both well if this were the case. Paul I am a little ambivalent about at present. Certainly his conscience seems to have been pricked by the financial malfeasance of the corporation (for Shepherd Ministries can certainly be viewed as such); however, I think there maybe something just a little bit sleazy about him too, which would hardly be surprising given those charged with his upbringing. Keep up the good work and the suspense @grahamsealby.

Oh what a tangled web you weave @Wombat Bill. The revelation at last; it has already piqued the interest of @chris191070 and @NimirRaj. I expect @ReaderPaul will likely form a view too. Not to be outdone, I will put "my two bobs worth in too". I suspect that Jared and Justin are in fact half-brothers, Jared having been sired by Brendan with a former girlfriend. Perhaps the result of a high school romance between two teenagers with devout parents who forced the girlfriend to give the baby up for adoption, as a child born out of wedlock (cruelly referred to as illegitimate or a bastard) would bring shame to the family. How deliciously ironic if Brendan is Jared's sperm donor; conservative homophobe Brendan the father of one bisexual son and one gay son. I trust you will reveal all in due course @Wombat Bill (there WILL be consequences if you don't). Now another snippet of information for your international readers regarding the Australian Marriage Equality plebiscite. Not only did 61.6% of registered voters support marriage equality, but 79.5% of registered voters took the time to complete the survey. In Australia it is compulsory to vote in government elections at both the state and federal level, whereas voting was not compulsory on this issue. For a nation renowned for apathy (whether this is true or not is debatable), "voter turnout" of 79.5% is, I think, quite impressive. @Wombat Bill the image chosen for this chapter moved me to tears, much as the result did back in 2017. Although it has had no impact on me to date (being the eternally single creature that I am), it was an almost spiritual moment with the majority of our fellow Australian's supporting marriage equality, particularly after the nasty and divisive campaign run by its opponents. I who generally have little faith in our species, was for once, proud of my fellow humans (or at least those who voted 'Yes'). And what about the "teaser" for the next chapter @Wombat Bill. Could you be referring to birth certificates? OMG it is almost like waiting for the next episode of Dallas or Dynasty.

The scent of piety mixed with a whiff or more of corruption often produces a powerful stench; one which Shepherd Ministries appears to be well acquainted with. Richard and Bernard Hudson bear a striking resemblance to the proprietors (and I use this word deliberately) of a well-known charismatic church which started here in Australia in more recent times. One former member of that church, a female, referred to it as "toxic Christianity". An apt description of Shepherd Ministries this would also appear to be. A haven for those desperately seeking the meaning of life in a world of make believe and greed, where the leaders rape and pillage (sometimes literally) for the "good" of the followers. @grahamsealby the scene in the opium den and the perverse threesome painted an even stronger picture of the depravity of Shepherd Ministries than what Jaimee found in his online search. The most disturbing thing about this story so far is that it is not in the least bit shocking, in so far as, it rings true due to the expose of many organised religious institutions in recent years. A very powerful start to this story which in some respects, I dread unfolding.

Thank you for the warning @grahamsealby. Although horrifying to read, it alerts the reader to the sheer evil of the person(s) who performed this act. I hope you have an equally, at least, painful ongoing existence or death in mind for them.

Any sympathy I may have had for Brendan after the revelation of his childhood abuse, evaporated when he shouted "and I'd do it again if I needed to", and when he made the rude gesture towards his wife and son when being led from the courtroom. Clearly, Brendan has no remorse for what he did, regardless of whether the murder was premeditated or not. I am intrigued as to why he changed his plea to "guilty". If he did so to receive a lesser sentence, I would suggest his outburst may have closed that door. Gran is fast becoming a favourite for all who meet her. She demonstrated a great sense of humour in this chapter, and proved her acceptance of "rainbow families" is not limited to those with whom she has a familial connection i.e. her beloved Craig and Justin. Craig redeemed himself further with his welcoming words to the party attendees. If anything good has come from the murder it is the strengthening of the relationship between Justin and Craig, and Justin and his mother; and, the forging of new relationships between Jessica and the various members of the Simpson family. @Wombat Bill another fine chapter with more revelations to build the story upon. I am disappointed that Brendan had few, if any, redeeming qualities, but I think the picture you have painted of him is likely a very realistic and common one for people in similar situations.

I think you may be right @chris191070. Alice strikes me as being very astute, intuitive and observational. I think she is naturally curious, with an appreciation for learning and challenges. She is also a very compassionate and thoughtful woman. She has taken Jessica "under her wing", providing her with much needed female companionship, and the wisdom of an older woman. Virginia's comment to Desmond may signify that she was pregnant with his child and had an abortion; however, I am more inclined to think it is the statement of a woman expressing regret for not having left Mr Price when Desmond first broached the subject with her. This latest statement to Desmond, and her recent discussion with Thomas' when she referred to him being the "son she never had", are I think, the hallmark of a woman who is becoming increasingly introspective. Her new "relationship" with Jared may have added further "fuel to the fire", forcing her to acknowledge to herself that her life has been shallow and self-indulgent. Another insightful chapter from the pen of our author. More delights ahead I am sure @Wombat Bill.

@Paqman thank you for this information. This is not the first time @Wombat Bill has raised an issue which has prompted research. Dare I say, this is another aspect of his story telling that keeps us, his readers, on our toes and entertained.

It certainly has been used, but to what extent it has been used successfully I don't know. Some states in Australia are traditionally more conservative than others, although having said that, NSW, the largest and traditionally the least conservative state, had several electorates with the highest 'No' vote in the marriage equality plebiscite. These electorates have a high population of migrants from countries where religious fanaticism thrives and being gay is likely to result in execution, or at least a life of misery. Of course, this was denied at the time, for fear of offending anyone.

@NimirRaj with an ageing population, Gran could prove a vital link to an as yet untapped source of business and income for the boys; parties at retirement complexes. The recent success of the charity auction has exposed them to philanthropy and, with the business doing well perhaps they could tap into this niche market. They should explore the tax implications of providing subsidised events and, of course, Justin would have to limit his exposure (he would not want to cause any heart attacks for a start), but it could be a viable income stream. Who knows, it might even lead to one or both of them getting an AC, but of course they would have to play tennis too.

Juanito showed his true colours, totally oblivious to Andy's feelings. His motivation was as I expected, monetary gain. Andy stood his ground, he quickly wised up to how shallow Juanito is. I had a voice in my head, spoken with a British accent, no doubt from a British comedy or crime show of yesteryear, echoing "sod off you ungrateful little prick". I foresee trouble ahead for Edward and Romel if Juanito does avail himself of their kindness. I sense Romel's familial relationship with Juanito will mean little to Juanito unless there is some benefit in it for him. An interesting cameo by our former Prime Minister, a paradoxical political man if ever there was one. A member of the dreadful Liberal Party, I think he was more admired by those on the left of the political spectrum than by those in his own party. He was a conundrum for his party, so they did what they do best, knifed him in the back and got rid of him, only to replace him with an evangelical, whose professed beliefs and behaviour bear little resemblance to the tenets of christianity as I understand them. Justin, a delight yet again. I would like him home delivered to me for my exclusive pleasure and adoration. Do you think you could arrange that for me @Wombat Bill? @Wombat Billanother fine chapter from your mythological pen. I have no doubt your usual CWB groupies (myself included) will have much to cross examine and critique in this chapter.

You have certainly achieved character development with Avery. He was incidental in Camp Refuge, much like Harlan in Guarded. He is certainly the "star of his own story" now (what a great goal for you to have) When Lee cried "He's my friend" as he was dragged out of the van I found myself weeping freely, much like many moments when reading your masterpiece Ash & Ember.

Understandably, much has been made of the setback to Lee's recovery this unfortunate event is likely to trigger. This is I believe, unquestionably so. However, this is only part of the damage done by this unfortunate event. Apart from the obvious danger to his life, this event will likely setback Avery's recovery too; the progress he has made in beginning to have trust in, and forming a relationship with his foster parents; and, being more comfortable in his own skin. Lee's remark "You're lucky they want to" appears to have been the catalyst for Avery's realisation that Bill and Anna genuinely want him as their foster son, that he is not just a source of state-funded income for them. One of my favourite paragraphs in this chapter "A bemused smile turned his scruffy face into a handsome study of unexpected happiness. He glanced at her. She grinned” is testament to the progress being made by all parties in the Avery, Bill and Anna relationship. I think it is likely that even if Lee is allowed and does return to the campground, he himself, or others in attempting to protect Avery, will endeavour to keep them apart, ultimately setting both back in their recovery. Greg and Joseph’s reactions whilst not ideal were based on fear for Avery and on Lee’s history. I hope that @Wayne Gray allows all parties to return to the “scene of the crime” to rationally discuss what happened, and equally as importantly, what precipitated it. @Wayne Gray with just a few simple words you created more havoc and drama for Avery and Lee than what would have been achieved with overwrought language and a saturation of character interactions. I think this is your greatest gift as a story teller; the gift of telling a story, creating tension and drama, with an economy of words and scene-setting. I have witnessed this gift time and time again in your story telling, and I must say it never ceases to amaze me. Superb story-telling is your forte.

@ReaderPaul I think this is what makes @Wombat Bill's story telling so entertaining and compelling. He invariably evokes a strong reaction from his readers, and is in this case, our reactions are not always the same. You seem to have a sense that Juanito is sexually focussed, whereas I believe his primary motivation is financial gain. He seemed very disappointed when the opportunity to become a permanent trick for Mr Price was withdrawn. I sense his disappointment was not the loss of regular sex, but the loss of income and all the trappings that may be available with wealth. I hope we are both wrong, but he does not appear to share his cousin's kind and caring nature.

It is early days yet for Juanito, the latest character to enter the lives of our motley little group of friends, but I am sensing he may be somewhat an opportunist. Perhaps he is looking for a "visa Daddy" to allow him to remain in Australia? Whatever his intentions, I doubt they are entirely altruistic. If Juanito is as mercenary as I fear he may be, I hope Andy wises up to this sooner rather than later. I sense that he, Andy, is a tender-hearted and perhaps too-trusting man, one who could be easily hurt by a manipulative lover focussed solely on their own needs and desires. Thomas' suggestion as to how "the group" could show their support for Justin and his mother, the latter whom they have never met, adds another facet to his character. His character growth at the hands of our writer has been slow but steady, painting a man who has much in common with Andy I think, although perhaps Thomas has a stronger veneer than does Andy. @Wombat Bill I may be jumping to conclusions regarding Juanito, but I trust you will reveal more as this tale unfolds.

I think he is even less popular than Margaret Court @Wombat Bill; a truly despicable member of the clergy. His "profile" has sunk somewhat of late, but I daresay he is not suffering any guilt of conscience for the acts he overlooked and those he was accused of committing himself.

As much as I dislike Brendan for his treatment of Justin and Jessica and the murder of Sam, I cannot help but feel some sympathy for him. It is likely the same priest(s)/brother(s) who brutalised him as a child, indoctrinated him and filled his head with warnings of the evils of homosexuals and their practices. It is baffling to me how the average person can equate homosexuality and pedophilia as one. My first experience with this was when an intelligent woman who is a very good friend of my mother, remarked upon learning that I was gay "at least you won't have to worry about him molesting children as he is a good person". I was shocked at the time as I did not realise the average person thought like this. What is surprising to me is that almost 40 years later, there are still those in the community who have this belief. Craig has redeemed himself significantly in the last two chapters. He has shown himself to be compassionate and very caring, qualities I initially admired in him before he seemed to "lose his way" and become someone I found myself liking less and less. @Wombat Bill you have outdone yourself in the last two chapters, but particularly this chapter. You have introduced a "delicate" and controversial issue and written it with such authenticity. Chapter 24 was emotionally challenging and very moving; what I did not expect to find was this chapter being even more so, with the character for whom I expected to have no sympathy, Brendan, being far more than the one dimensional homophobe he could have been in the hands of a lesser writer. I don't know if this was your intention, but you have painted a very troubled, flawed and violent man, and given him a humanity that has moved me greatly. Beautifully and superbly written chapter, proof of your versatility and ever increasing skills as a writer.

That sounds serious. Are you able to work to support yourself?

I have no doubt Brendan will use either the "gay panic defence" or claim he was avenging the "man who stole his son's innocence". If Brendan resorts to the former as a reason for the murder, I wonder if the toilet block in question is a known beat, one which Brendan has frequented. Perhaps Brendan himself may be attracted to men, but has attempted to quell such desires due to his religious beliefs. Internalised homophobia over such proclivities might explain his violent opposition to Justin being gay. I have done a little research just now on the 'net and was surprised to learn that Sam is considered to have committed statutory rape when he had sex with Justin. Although Justin willingly participated in the sex if I remember correctly, the sex is legally classed as statutory rape because Justin was underage at only 15 at the time. It is more commonly referred to as unlawful sex with a minor (this is what I have always heard it referred to as). Whilst I do not condone Sam's actions, I have always thought that rape was non-consensual sex, and usually had an element of violence associated with it. I was surprised by the comment made by @NimirRaj, which is what prompted me to undertake this research. Not to make light of this, but @Wombat Bill this story has provided me with an opportunity to better educate myself on an issue which I would not ordinarily have researched. Having said all this, I do not think Brendan should be able to use this as an excuse for the murder. I am probably living in "cloud cuckoo land", but if anything good comes out of this, I hope the principal of the school is charged for not having reported the statutory rape, and the school itself held to have a degree of culpability. Had the school principal acted in Justin's best interests in the first place (laughable I know to think this would have happened), the murder may not have taken place. In the real world this of course would not happen, as we know only too well of the appalling atrocities which have been committed against children in religious-based schools, the leaders of whom have often turned a blind-eye and/or blamed the children for what happened.

I hope you are OK.

OMG @Wombat Bill I had visions of some of the women behaving like they reportedly did at Tom Jones concerts, screaming and throwing their knickers at the bachelors on the runway. And, the contest for the final "bachelor"; this could have descended into a "scrag fight", with women well lubricated by expensive champagne fighting over Justin like they do over handbags and shoes at the Boxing Day sales in David Jones and Myer. Justin can add another occupation to his steadily growing resume - fluffer. Is there no limit to his talents? He seemingly embraces each new "challenge" with enthusiasm, testament to his growing confidence and enterprising nature. What havoc will Papa Haynes wreak in the impending chapter? I would love to see him "come up against" Craig's Gran. I expect she would "rip him a new one", very politely and pacifically of course. A total demolition by Gran of his pious bullshit would be such a gleeful occasion, I may well behave like some of the Price's Perves, without even needing the assistance of expensive champagne.

Well "Hitch" the only possible "red herring" I could find in this chapter was: “That’s sweet of you Justin, but unfortunately Craig did not get to see him that day.” “Oh I thought he did, maybe I was mistaken.” A delightful chapter with "Gran" once again demonstrating why Craig thinks so highly of her. Her honesty is refreshing, her generosity seemingly boundless, and her joie de vivre infectious. Justin's appreciation of what he has found in Craig's family demonstrates he is as beautiful on the inside as he is on the outside. He is, I think, my favourite character in this story, certainly a character who has experienced significant growth from his somewhat humble and naive beginnings. @Wombat Billthe image for this chapter matches the title perfectly. It represents the essence of this chapter, the joy experienced by Justin from something as simple as "having a cuppa with Gran". For a lad who has not experienced much in the way of familial love, the joy of acceptance and love from Craig's beloved "Gran" is a simple pleasure most heartfelt.

I think Romel and Edward handled a delicate situation rather well. The request to Juanito that he retire from sex work could so easily have been seen by him as judgmental i.e. a request motivated by a belief that sex work as a profession was immoral and/or degrading. The motivation, as explained to Juanito, was to allow him to devote time to his studies which he had forfeited due to his inability to pay for same; and, to take on less demanding work such as working for Craig and Justin. A rather short chapter @Wombat Bill with no new characters introduced. Another glimpse at the many faces of Edward, this time the maternal/paternal Edward, which had previously been hinted at, became reality.