Quarterbear

That’s a huge hurdle behind them! Getting to meet a partner with friends is never easy. Especially following the big news that someone who has always been assumed to be completely, comfortably straight, has changed their mind and found a new way to be themselves. Truly an obstacle out of the way. I need to go back and re-read the mentions of Neil’s mates. I don’t recall the fact that one of the lads, or at least the kid brother of one, was gay. If this is the case, why was Neil’s revelation such a big issue? Or is it simply that Marty is worried that if he’s Neil’s oldest friend, everyone will assume that something had to have been between them sexually? This chapter shows a lot of progress, opens the door for a lot more, but at the same time, has me analyzing and over analyzing what happened.

Very creative dynamic. I have had relationships (FWB) with brothers, so the parts involving Neil’s concerns for Charlie’s relationships brings back memories. Neil is always going to be the older brother no matter what type of situation. Glad to see Neil opening up and willing to try things outside the usual for him! It’s nice to see that Alex doesn’t always need to take the lead.

Alex and Neil continue to as individuals and as a couple. Starting to look like a family while becoming part of a larger family. Fitting into the attentions of Edwin, as they meet the expectations of Alex’s Mother, while watching out for Charlie. A nice overall growth. Neil is expanding into an artist, not just a carpenter. Alex is also expanding the range of his work.

More small but relevant steps forward. Neil moving at his pace and Alex seeing the progress. Appreciating it without pushing for bigger steps or a faster pace. obvious to see the benefits of all the changes.

It’s great to see Neil willing to step so far outside his comfort zone to do things for Alex. A great example of the continued growth of each person.

Another giant step forward for both Neil and Alex. great to see them both leaning into the relationship without seeming to force the other. Neil is becoming more comfortable with asking for things that suit him. Alex is learning that his past experiences weren’t the only possible paths. The little times of simply living your life along side someone else shows huge advances.

Great to have the introduction to Evan. Good to have such a significant part of Alex’s past introduced to Neil. Alex has benefited from multiple influences, maybe those can assist Neil.

Great to see both willing to push their personal limits. Also nice to see each of them recognizing what the other is experiencing and be there for support. I look forward to reading about their continued growth, both as a couple and as individuals.

Being open minded is the first step toward so many things in life in general, and sex specifically. Being willing to try something new is a big step for Neil. So great to see him explore. hopefully, Alex is willing to let things grow naturally for the two of them. It seems that he is open to learning, as well.

Neil reminds me of a buddy from my college days. He was very adventurous sexually but it had to remain a secret from everyone. The day he thought someone might know what was going on, he packed up and moved from Lexington to Indianapolis. That was almost 40 years ago. I personally never heard from him again. I know from others that he’s a divorced father of three. Wife left because he kept getting caught with men. Hopefully, Neil is smarter.

I miss Slav! Hot bears coming of age will always get my attention.😈🐻🔥😉 Jason also has potential.

This has been a great story. Will you be picking this up soon, @Robert Hugill

I like the fact that Neil took the initiative to test the waters. So much easier for everyone when the straight man makes the first move. I’m really impressed by the slow gradual move toward a relationship. Very rewarding to be friends that happen to fall into bed than f**k buddies that have to decide whether they like each other or not.

The foundation to have been put in place. I look forward to seeing the characters develop. lila seems like she is going to be a handful. Charlie is an enigma. Neil on the other hand seems to be more than curious about Alex. Based on the title, I assume they become more than just chums. I’m really looking forward to seeing how things evolve for the two of them.

Very interesting trajectory for the characters. Definite growth for all of the main characters. Each one seems to have found themself and ready to truly take off. it was a good story and more importantly, I see great opportunity for each character to play significant parts in future stories. maybe one of the minor buildings could become a pub. Wouldn’t it be great to have Boots and Jocks just outside your back door? I personally would enjoy the thought of Charlie, Gus, Joss, and Tom strutting their bits about with a pint in hand while Louis frantically tries to sketch. The Dick-ionary could gain valuable material!