I’ve only just caught up with this story, binging it over the last week, and didn’t want to leave a trail of comments across the many chapters… but WOW! What a story!
Robbie is such a real character, I see so much of him in myself when I was his age. The mood swings and defiance make sense in his situation, but can be a lot to handle. I really liked his detour into straightness, because it reminds me of a confusing time in my own life. It frustrated me to read other commenters not realizing that coming to terms with your sexuality is so rarely a clear cut path (although I agree the graphic straight sex was vaguely off putting to read).
I really enjoy the dynamics between Robbie, his siblings and Sue. They are not perfect people, but there is a lot of love there, and their occasional conflict is a great demonstration of how actual families behave. Don on the other hand is a real piece of work - sometimes I am flabbergasted that Robbie doesn’t stand up to him more directly. By the time I was 16, I happily challenged my father verbally or physically, when necessary. In Robbie position I would be rubbing Don’s failing marriage and affairs right in his face, secretly recording him to give Jo ammunition, etc. But then again, as you’ve said, Robbie is a lover not a fighter, and has his own share of daddy issues. I think he’ll likely need to confront those issues some more as he comes to term with the birth of his son.
Although there is an ominous air to the current story direction, Robbie has been through hell and high water at this point, and has made some valuable allies. I am excited to see what hurdles he will undoubtedly overcome.
kind wishes Dodger, I am excited for an update whenever, and thank you for sharing this incredible marathon of a story with us