Summerabbacat

Perhaps another McDonald Philpott or David Hargreaves (whose name I don't even remember reading before) or Norman (Ralph's father, whose family I cannot remember)?

I wonder if the damsel in distress is Novak's daughter, the result of an extra-marital affair, or a donation at the sperm bank? Rizz, not a word I have encountered before @Josh Aterovis. Initially I thought you must have misspelled jizz, and given the context rizz was used in, jizz could have fitted almost as well. Kane is certainly a little horndog; I imagine Eve would be horrified to learn her youngest son is a sowing his wild oats; why it may even lead to her having a life threatening episode. Quick, quick, someone needs to inform her post-haste that her son is not only tasting "forbidden fruit", he is devouring it like Kate Bush in the joyful video for Eat The Music. Watching I could hot help but think Kate's head and/or neck must have been mighty sore after making the video. I felt slightly nauseous from the motion, definitely not from Kate though. Micah is obviously suspicious about Patrick's death. I will not be surprised if, and when, Micah produces a photograph of Patrick, Killian gets a helluva shock. Is Jake in danger too. I can feel the tension starting to build @Josh Aterovis. You are right, this one is building steam slowly but surely.

Harry is like a mild case of eczema, irritating and inconvenient, but a condition which can be brought under control with the right treatment. Veronica conversely is like a persistent venereal disease, one which is very difficult to eradicate even with the right treatment, or a severe case of gastroenteritis, causing pain and suffering, dehydration and malaise. Harry is an amateur, whereas Veronica is the real thing, a conceited, dangerous, entitled, backstabbing super bitch. My ideal vengeance for Veronica changed in this chapter; I no longer want River largely responsible for her downfall, I want her downfall to be orchestrated by Leonardo. His humiliation and banishment of her from his life would I think be far more painful for her, and whatever downfall she experiences, I want it to be painful and very public. Poverty, loss of physical beauty and public humiliation to the maximum level possible will suffice thank you @vanalas. Perhaps an attack of extreme gastrointestinal cramping followed by loud and explosive diarrhoea, in public, will get the ball rolling very nicely. Shit on shit, very apropos. C u next Tuesday, Veronica.

Nor did I @Seraph28. I had a vision of him having a seizure so consumed was he by rage and jealousy, but then I thought it might make a mess and felt sorry for whichever household staff would have to clean up the mess.

I suspected as much. I remembered its specific targeting in My Beautiful Laundrette, but given your use in this chapter thought its application must be broader now.

To be honest @Gary L, I thought Con's response would be worse. There was no name calling - pansy, poofter, shirt lifter and fudge packer were the adjectives which I thought might be uttered by Con before any sense of decorum kicked in. Part of his reaction was likely motivated by a real surprise, Con assuming Russ would be very strait-laced, settled down “In a nice house, with a slightly younger man who devoted himself to cooking and gardening.” Instead, he is in a throuple with a married couple, one of whom has a son resulting from a relationship with a woman, and not just a sperm donation to a female friend. With encouragement from Lisa, Con may realise Russ' relationship affects him naught and therefore he should just be happy for him. "Lisa was short, curvy, and still with lovely blond hair, but now with less artificial gloss." I had a great chuckle at another of your delightful euphemistic physical descriptions @Robert Hugill. I initially interpreted it as "short and dumpy, still with appealing hair, but she has really let herself go", but revisited and thought this was me projecting as nasty bitch. Lewis and Wayne, definitely not my cup of tea, way too chatty and demanding. Hopefully once the excitement of Russ' arrival wears off, they will become a bit more sedate, but I won't hold my breath waiting for this to happen. Barrow-job, another Hugillism @Robert Hugill. According to Google a slang term popular in some parts of the UK, meaning cash in hand. It does sound vaguely familiar to me. though. I am puzzled by Russ' reference to having been abused with Paki. I thought his spelling of Kahn was Germanic, and that the only reason for his "brownness" is his Haitian maternal grandmother, Grand Mere, or has my memory failed me yet again, or is Paki a generic insult to anyone who is not white? Most enjoyable chapter.

Technology is on occasion the bane of my existence, particularly when it is forced upon me and the attitude of many is "move with the times old man" or piss off. Suffice to say, the air is often blue in my vicinity, particularly when working from home using my work laptop. Utter shit compared to my own laptop. As is always the case with a visit into the lives of the Devlin-Majors family, there was much to enjoy, although one "situation" disappointed, and to some degree troubled me. The troubling "situation", the belief of Jenny, and likely Ken too, they are not "real" grandparents to the children because they are not related by blood. I can understand this belief regarding Cameron and Elizabeth given they were born to be raised by Andrew and Ryan, but not with Jamie and Fiona who were born to be raised by Beth and Nicky. I believe had Beth and Nicky not been tragically killed, both would have paid particular attention to this to ensure Jenny and Ken were recognised, and felt welcome and included, as grandparents, even though Nicky played no physical part in their conception. I am not in any way criticising Jenny or Ken for having this belief because legally I assume they would not be recognised as having any filial connection to any of the children, which I think is very sad, not only for Jenny and Ken, but for the children too. To the credit of Andrew and Ryan, they do not appear to share this belief and have welcomed Jenny and Ken as grandparents to all the children, including Cameron and Elizabeth. Quite thought provoking @Andre Delport, not something I have ever given any thought to because I don't really like children, but something which has given me food for thought nevertheless.

With all proceeds going to prison reform and LGBTQI organisations.

Yummy, yummy, yummy I want cum in my tummy and I feel like-a humpin' Vee Yummy, yummy, yummy I want cum in my bummy and I feel like-a ridin' Theo Jack has disclosed his status to Vince, he was an asexual virgin. He now wants Theo to do unspeakable things to him, wants Theo to put his large thing into his tiny thing, wants Theo to mount him with wanton lust, and he wants to lick Theo all over. It appears the more Jack talks about it, the more he wants to be fucked by Theo within an inch of his life. Perhaps this is the beginning of Jack's "self-moistening" @Cane23, his dormant pheromones going into overdrive. Vince the guardian may need to find a high pressure washer upon landing in Pinemoor to dull Jack's scent, otherwise Jack and Theo may be too distracted to fulfil their quest. And the cards appear to predict, and Theo appears to be desiring it be so, that Vince will be mounting him. Who would ever have thunk such a thing possible, Theodore Pembroke spit-roasted between a field mouse and a guardian; Theodore Pembroke topping and bottoming at the same time, and relishing his dual role. It could be enough to set off fire alarms @Laura S. Fox; best you call in the Ohio Players.

Once again a splendid chapter @Robert Hugill. I chuckled as Matt and Gray combined their "talents" to cajole Sandra into having an overnight stay on the way to Southwold with her friend Elspeth, to enjoy a concert by a crooner they both admire. And there is a name I have not heard for many years, Elspeth. Another like Elsie, Mavis and Peggy. I rejoiced firstly witnessing Matt revelling in the role of boyfriend and embracing it with announcements to friends and colleagues alike; and secondly witnessing Vince revelling in the role of big brother, assisting or at least attempting to assist Gray with expanding brand "Graham Philpott". I was surprised, very pleasantly so, by Gray's acknowledgment that accepting brand "Graham Philpott" does not require him to sell himself to concepts or situations he opposes or feels uncomfortable with, although he does seem to be prepared to step outside his comfort zone somewhat now. And what would a journey to the Hugillverse be without a Hugillism, although on this occasion it was slightly different in that it was a word which I am well acquainted with, but had no idea it also had the meaning for which Robert used it. "Vince shook his head. “No idea. Kjell was exercised mainly about ‘people’ putting ideas into Arvid’s head." And finally, if, but hopefully when, you write a sequel to this most marvellous of stories @Robert Hugill, may I be so bold as to suggest a reason for a return appearance by venomous Venetia. Vince should invite her to a celebration of Gray's newfound success, together with the odious Kjell and his complacent spouse, Bella. He then introduces Kjell and Venetia to each other and encourages "vigorous" discussion between the two about something on which they disagree (this might be difficult). Interested parties observe with glee as the "vigorous" discussion explodes into violence, as first one, then the other, and finally both attempt to throttle each other. Vince must not allow any of the other party goers to intervene as to do so may cause them harm. The end result, two "neutered" troublemakers banished for good.

So this is what he has been doing instead of screenwriting, producing, directing and acting. If you added singing to his resume, he would be a regular Barbra Streisand.

Very entertaining @Lee Wilson; your fertile imagination on display yet again, with a healthy dose of black humour. I am certain it was not your intention, but I found myself repeatedly thinking the salamanders cannibalising each other represented the behaviour of some current leaders of governments across the world and some of the world's wealthiest citizens (take your pick to which scumbags I am referring as you're spoilt for choice).

He was certainly a brilliant songwriter, especially the songs he co-wrote with Carole Bayer Sager. A very underrated performer I think; he was probably too flamboyant (code for gay) for American audiences, although they loved Barry Manilow whom they thought was straight. WTF? LOL. I loathed Barry Manilow as a teenager (apart from Copacabana), but have grown to like his music as an adult, especially "syrup" like Mandy. I did not see the TV mini series, but I did see The Boy From OZ many years ago (in 1998) with Todd McKenney playing Peter, Jill Perryman playing his mother, and Chrissie Amphlett giving a frightening performance as Judy Garland (she was Judy Garland). I remembered his father committed suicide, but did not remember the Armidale connection. Perhaps because he wrote the song Tenterfield Saddler, admittedly about his grandfather, I only remembered his connection to Tenterfield.

But have you ever been married to Liza Minnelli @Mark Ponyboy Peters? Just like Peter, you had the right "credentials" to marry Liza, or her mother for that matter. I did not realise young Peter grew up in Armidale. I thought he was Tenterfield born and bred. Besides having meals in the New England Hotel, did you have drinks in the Ladies' Lounge where he used to play the piano? I had forgotten women used to be segregated in hotels. How fucking ludicrous. Some of the girls I went to school with could drink guys under the table, some of them whilst blowing a guy under the table at the same time. I saw him once in Flashez, a gay nightclub at the Gold Coast. It must have been 1990 or 1991 and he did not look well. He was only a slightly built man, and was there by himself. From what I have read about him since, he was intensely private. I loved I Go To Rio, but knew little else about him as a teenager. In later years I realised what a terrific songwriter he was, writing with the likes of Carole Bayer Sager frequently, and with David Lasley, Adrienne Anderson and Marvin Hamlisch.

He could report for duty in drag like Corporal Klinger from M*A*S*H* @weinerdog, although this would likely result in him being continually ridiculed rather than discharged. Perhaps he could report for duty singing the massive 1977 hit (in Australia), I Go To Rio by Peter Allen, similarly attired as Peter was in the video @Mark Ponyboy Peters. Such an appearance and performance would likely have raised suspicions at least, as to which team Nate was batting for. A great song from a country lad like yourself MPP, from the Northern Tablelands too. Watching this video again I think he might have "borrowed" one of @drsawzall's shirts for the performance. And did you know @weinerdog, he passed away in San Diego?

"Yes,’ he eventually replied. ‘Did you ever think of me like . . . that?’ Danny studied his friend, who was now propped up on one elbow and looking back at him with an expectant expression on his face. How much should he tell him? How could he tell him that he had been in love with him for years, but had been unable to say it, because he always expected the worst? And then how could he tell him that he fell in love with somebody else? ‘Well?’ Nate demanded to know. ‘I’ve loved you from the day I met you,’ Danny replied." This chapter needed a tissue-warning @Mark Ponyboy Peters, well it did for me anyway. Danny and Nate's friendship is a joy to witness. I wonder how many people, especially men, ever experience such a close friendship, with or without there being a sexual element to the relationship. The beauty of nature was on full display. The sunshine, the waterfall, the blue waterhole, the crystal-clear sky (I could have done without the eagle though, they scare the bejesus out of me). Balmy and serene, with a languid mood. Sounds divine @Mark Ponyboy Peters; totally unlike Sydney at the moment which, although it has been warm today (about 30°C), is being blasted by strong winds AGAIN. Hay fever hell for me and both my felines. A little MPP cheer most welcome by we three.

Domestic bliss. So what the hell went wrong, or is Adam's mind so "lost" that he is unable to separate reality and fantasy? Where is Jamie now, did he ever exist, or if he did was he even aware of Adam?

Nana Bev promised so much; however, apart from the financial contribution to Jack's life, I am not sure she would be capable of contributing anything else. She was hammered by lunch time, the ever present flask making multiple appearances at the most inopportune times throughout the morning. At least she does not appear to be a nasty drunk, or even a weepy drunk, just a very drunk, drunk. If Jack's guardianship is approved I think Dr Kincaid will bear most, if not all, the day-to-day care Jack even in situations where Nana Bev's appearance is not required in person.

Exquisite @Rafy. Soooooooo much to love about this story, but for once I am going to be succinct. “You do not need to shout when you have something beautiful to say. Let the mushroom speak for itself.” Hilarious, but sadly whatever the mushroom had to say, would be far more intelligent than many of today's so-called leaders in government and business; their devolution a stark contrast to Sam's evolution as the story progressed. The other highlight for me was Rowan's realisation: "Now that the initial terror had subsided, I could see him not as a monster, but as… well, a person. A very large, non-human person." A sentiment I share with regard to many non-human animals.

@Rafy's unique humour and extraordinary talent have never been more evident than in this tasty little morsel. He is like no other author I have ever had the pleasure of reading, his works fascinating, sometimes challenging and biting, always humorous, and invariably cast with at least one drag queen. On this occasion there was not a drag queen in sight, although one of the two main characters, Sam, is "costumed" and "coiffed" in a manner not usually seen, at least not in public. To say any more would give the story away. There is a "moral" to this story, in fact, there are several. @Rafy graciously allows the reader to choose whichever one, or perhaps even more, they wish to. And a special thank you to @Rafy for the largely vegetarian food consumed in this delightful "consommé".

Calvin, Brady and Alan branched out into international relations in this chapter, attempting to forge stronger US/Czech Republic and US/Ukraine ties. I am not sure what Krusty will think of the former, but he probably won't be happy with the latter. He may even Put In a complaint to Trevor or send in the three skanks to restore order.

The waistcoats and food were delightful, but the absolute pinnacle of perfection, of joy, of entertainment value, the cats. Unfortunately, I only have two left, not a baker's dozen like @chris191070 (although I have had this many at one stage). My eldest, Frida, was 16 yesterday.

LOL @drsawzall. This comment brought to mind the Grace Jones classic Pull Up To The Bumper.

“Who was the man in the picture?” “Don't know that either, but he was with a state senator.” “Well, what did he look like?” “Distinguished.” I realized that wasn't the most vivid description. I pulled out my phone and brought up the photo, zooming in on the man's face, then slid it across the table toward her. “Here, take a look. Recognize him?” She stared at it for a long moment, then shook her head. “Never seen him before in my life. But…” “But what?” “As soon as I saw him, I got a bad feeling.” I studied her face. Her eyes had gone distant, troubled. “What kind of bad feeling?” She hesitated, then shook her head slowly. “I don’t know exactly. Just... death.” Patrick maybe? A very big coincidence if it is or six degrees of separation? Jake working as a high-end escort could account for the sudden wealth, the gifts from a wealthy "benefactor", the invitation to the Equality Ball. Speculation, speculation, speculation. We the faithful are like chess pieces in the game of Aterovis Ambiguity, written, produced and directed by the Baltimore Bamboozler. I can picture you at your desk @Josh Aterovis, fingers fiddling with your beard, a giant grin on your face and a look of mischief in your eyes, as you chuckle or guffaw at our lame attempts to catch those red herrings, separate the wheat from the chaff, identify the killer. But what fun we have, the only "real" hazard, Killian's reckless driving. Watch out @drsawzall, his mind is wandering again, foot to the pedal, traffic lights and other road safety features a menace to be dealt with, with denial and contempt. WTF did Judy see in her tea leaves? A naked Novak being flogged by Jake dressed in a leather harness, leather jockstrap and thigh high boots? A naked Judy dressed in a latex catsuit flogging Novak in a room filled with scented candles and chiffon? Rotting tea leaves? Ominous, ominous, ominous @Josh Aterovis. I channelled my inner-Madame Zelenska and the best I could come up with is Jake working as an escort. It will make Killian's head spin if it is so. A visit from Seth armed with anal beads, a giant dildo and nipple clamps may be the only way to set Killian free from his virtual chastity belt.

A most welcome return by "Mr Russ" @Robert Hugill. I have to say his brother Connor sounds like a giant pain in the arse. He is apparently the one who has always strived to compete with Russ, and yet blames Russ when he is unable to do so. His wife is seeminlgy pleasant, but his sons, a horrid pair of brats. I am similar to Russ in this regard, I cannot bear screaming, squabbling children. I would want to throttle them if they screamed; and if they laid down in public screaming and throwing a tantrum, I would leave them behind. I hope the weather improves for Russ and he is not housebound due to inclement weather. If Connor and/or his sons' annoy Russ, at least he can go for a walk. If he gets bored or frustrated, perhaps he can pop over to Enya's castle for a spot of lunch. Her cats can keep him entertained if Enya needs to hide away.