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It think for the first time ever; I cannot select the like this button on a chapter or story by Mark Arbour. I can understand on a completely intellectual level where Mark is going with this but every other fiber of my being is screaming no... I can understand Matt and how he handled it and Wade and how he is dealing with it but it just doesn't work for me... The whole time I was reading it what was running through my mind was something that someone else wrote that sums up how I feel about Matt letting Wade walk away... Do not go gentle into that good night Dylan Thomas, 1914 - 1953 Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

I just still don't understand Caroline. This is just so our of place for how she has behaved in the past, the issue with the Royal Duke not withstanding. I am just as perplexed by Cavendish. I think that the his father gave him great advice but it maybe harder to pull off then his father thinks. Can't wait to see where Mark is taking us on this ride. Another truly wonderful chapter in my favorite serial online, great work, Mark...

Matt has really started to grow up and is working to accept the changes in his life. He is like Brad in some ways, as JP pointed out, and that means that sometimes he needs a little help to get past certain issues. I hope that Matt continues to see Casey and understands how much his family is there for him now... It is hard to understand Wade's behavior because we don't have anything from his point of view. While I am glad that he showed up in Paris, I have to think JP played a hand in that; I am still disappointed in how he handled the situation at Bridgemont. No matter how well he connected with Alex, there is just no excuse for treating Matt the way he did. A little surprised that Will is not going to Claremont just to make a point but then I guess he really doesn't have to since Zach is with him in Paris. I don't understand how Wally and Clara could even consider pulling Zach from La Salle, they talk about how important his football career is then talk about pulling him from one of the premier schools for football in the country to go back to the middle of no where; not that Claremont has produced a few players that did well on the college level, remember all the records that Jeff broke. JP is still the heart and soul of this story.......

WOW, I go away for a couple of days and come back to this... I am not sure that I will ever be able to leave again... I have to admit that I find Wade and his behavior is this story more than a little déclassé. Even if you and Matt are going separate towns for your furthering education, you came on this trip to spend time with him and to a lesser extent the others, you just don't dump a guy mid-vacation like this. It is bad manners and will lead to very bad karma... I can tell that Matt is in turmoil but it says a lot about his growth that Wade has yet to figure out how upset he is and even more that he wanted to get more settled before putting in an appearance with the others. I still hope that Matt and Wade end up together five years or so down the road but am starting to think that if it doesn't happen; it will be more Matt outgrowing Wade than Wade moving past Matt... I am baffled by both Kevin and Cody's behavior. I really don't understand the issue with Kevin, it seemed to come out of no where, except Mark's twisted mind. Cody, I can maybe see; he is avoiding Stef to stay away from Brad who hurt him and has now hooked up with his ex but even that is sort of a weak excuse to stay away from Stef. Both Stef and Brad are use to not being ignored; so I think both Cody and Kevin do so at their own peril. Just a thought but could Cody have been the guy that was willing to put up the money for Kevin but wanted 50% interest in the company? I find Will and Zach sort of boring right now, I guess because of the lack of drama... LOL... Glad that Zach is getting this exposure to the world and hope it helps him in ways that it often does for those that get to spend time in other countries at that age. I recently had gone back and re-read both CAP and 1968 and it really struck me at how many parallels there are in that story between JP and Jeff and Will and Zach. I actually think Will may be hurt more than even he realizes by what is coming. That being said, I actually sort of think that Will has better odds of leaving Zach than vice versa. I think at some point Will is just not going to be willing to stay so hidden in the background; while I think Zach would be perfectly happy to play the straight man while he has Will in a spare closet so to speak... I just love JP and Stef... They are truly meant to be together. I hope they get to have some time to connect on this trip.

WOW, what a chapter, this explains so much. Caroline and Cavendish are both probably horrified by what happened and neither of them has the guts to tell George. I am still not sure why Arthur has disappeared unless he was made aware and just doesn't feel he can get involved. Treadway really is inconsequential in all of this. Granger may enjoy him on the trip but his involvement in the three way just isn't the real issue. I am shocked by Caroline. This is just so far out of character that I don't even know how to explain it except to wonder how intoxicated she was. I am not sure how Granger is going to resolve this but he needs to settle things with both Caroline and Cavendish before he sails if at all possible. This was some truly first class writing and plotting both....

An interesting chapter, I found a lot to think about while reading this one... Kevin was always very perceptive and I have to wonder if he just did not see through Jackie and all the others; could that be why they had an issue with him? Or did Kevin keep Cody in a more monogamous relationship and that hurt how well he related to some of his and Jackie's clients??? Kevin's view of Cody just doesn't really match how he was written, or at least not how he was portrayed in the beginning. Cody was someone that had true depth and a great understanding of what others wanted; maybe he can see and understand others but not himself? I have to say that I always thought Cody wanted more from Brad than Brad could give him because of Robbie, maybe Cody thought with Robbie gone Brad would be more amiable and when Brad did not turn to him or anyone, it hurt Cody more than we realize? Plus, if you think about it, the guys that Cody has really fallen for never end up well in this series, Brian, etc... Never liked Alex Danvers, but never cared enough to really dislike him either. I find his reaction to Brad really strange. Brad and probably more so Stef could really still hurt him professionally so why come across like that? I can more easily understand Alex's reaction to Kevin, he could easily see him as a threat. The meeting in London was so well done. The Duke and JP just were so matched and the conversation was perfect. It is funny to see how much Will has really absorbed just from being around JP and the others. I can see why both Will and Zach would have rather gone off with Matt, Wade, and the Earl but as Zach is suppose to be interning with JP; he really needed to at least make an effort. I would surmise the letters are really dealing more with the Stuarts so I would be surprised if anything from the Bridgemont series really came into play but Mark has surprised us all before... I found the Earl and his encounter with Matt and Wade very nuanced. He easily understood that Matt and Wade were together in some capacity and handled the fact that they were so out with a matter of fact attitude that was interesting. He said, We have gays in England too; but gave no hint as to his sexuality. His comments about even some of his ancestors leads me to wonder if George Granger's secret became a family secret... He also did not seem discomforted by Wade's living situation. Alex, the Earl, may turn out to be a very interesting addition to the story... Can't wait to see where you are taking us with all of this Mark...

I have to say that as good as this chapter was, and it was wonderful; Tim's review was just a perfect addendum. I loved how JP is with the younger set. It brings out a playful side of him but there is always even with these guys that he loves a certain degree of separation. It was so funny to have him explain what was going on with the Granger family while his own was being so purposely difficult about the explanation. To say that I am excited by the idea of the Granger family being introduced even in a limited way into the CAP universe would be a major understatement; and Wade at Harvard would be the perfect tie in. As much as I love everything CAP, the Bridgemont series has become my favorite and I relish any extension of it. I have to wonder how involved the young Earl will become with the story and series. I hope it is a great deal... I am so glad that Brad really seems to be moving forward. He has found a way to view Robbie and keep him in his memories without it intruding to much on the present. I do understand his issue with Alex Danvers but have to wonder if bringing Kevin back into Cody's orbit will be enough to through a wrench into that. Much like JP with his young group, Stef with Brad is just a different person. He seems younger and more free to be his true self. It cannot be measured how important it is to have someone like that in your life. Mark, I am so excited to see you introducing the Granger family into the CAP universe but I have to say that I am truly enjoying you bringing back so many of the supporting performers back for another round. It has been nice to see Sean, Doug, and now Kevin... Keep up the masterful work, this is just fabulous...

Everything about this chapter was just perfect, the writing and how you tied it to an actual event made it just that much more real to read and experience. The scene with the King and the seamen was particularly touching. Can you imagine what it would have been like for the men to have their King just show up and actually listen and converse with them? Plus, the King gets to hear about someone that he obviously cares for and respects from those that are around him more than any others. The issue with Lady Elgin was just the beginning. I can just about bet that her behavior will be enough to try even the patience of someone of Granger's fortitude. I do wonder where they will place her maid? This is going to be a long trip for no other reason but her being on board. The end of the marriage of Lord and Lady Elgin was a huge scandal in their time. I have to wonder if we will see any hint of the behavior that lead up to it this early in the marriage. I am starting to think the issue with Caroline and Treadway was something more than an affair between them; could Caroline be protecting someone else?

A wonderful chapter and so full of promise for the future. I can see a storm brewing just over the horizon... Really enjoyed the Will and Tony scene, it was so well done and had such an honest feel to it. I can see Tony being around a lot longer than some people seem to want him to. Sort of sad how well he understood what Will and Zach see in each other, but he seems to be moving on at the moment as well. I hope he and Mason get along swimmingly. Brad and Sean really work for me, not just because the sex was hot but they sort of seem to mesh on a couple of different levels. I have to wonder how serious this will become but it should be fun while it last. Seeing Doug was a blast from the past and one that feels like a hint of something else as well; not sure this isn't a hint of something else but can't decide what... Marie and Will should be viewed as the Alpha couple at this Junior League event. Even though most will know that Will is gay, he and Marie have all this is required to be large and in charge at an event like this. It will be an interesting event and I hope we get to spend sometime leading up to it and at it... So excited about the trip to Europe and glad that Wade is joining the party; if Stef and Brad show up it will be a grand affair... You just know that there is going to be some drama involved in this trip and I can't wait to get there and get it going one... Anyone want to lay odds on which couple(?) causes the biggest headache for JP???

It was really interesting to see how Frank explain the difference between his family and JP's et al. It gave a new appreciation on just what they have gone through over the years. Really did not see Brad and Sean connecting but it totally makes sense; I will be very interested to see how it turns out. Will handled the initial meeting with Tony just perfectly. I have to admit I was a little worried about this one going into it... Great chapter, Mark, but I can't wait for Europe...

OMG, Granger lost the King... I am so glad to see this back, even with the drama between George and Caroline. I am a little hesitant to understand Caroline's position. George has never shown himself to be an ogre; anything but, so I find it a little bewildering. I hope this is resolved before they sail because it will just eat at him for a good portion of the trip. If this happens, it could make long trip very unpleasant for not only George but Treadway as well. I have missed George so much....

I love my nieces and nephews but am damn glad that I never had any children... I thought Matt handled Zach just the perfect way. That sort of older brother/cousin lets do something physical to get our bearing back. I think that in some ways Matt understands Zach better than Will does. Zach has to understand since it doesn't appear that his parents do and his agent just doesn't care about that side of it that it isn't all about the athletics. In general, the best schools want even their student athletes to be as well rounded as possible. To have an internship with someone of JP's stature on your resume; is something you don't give up no matter what. Frank is more than capable of taking on Wally and Clara over this but with JP and the other's behind him it doesn't even seem like a fair fight; that being said, I am pretty sure that Ohio does not have the same statutes that California does about emancipation. Maybe Tim can indicate whether Zach has lived in California long enough to establish legal rights there. Drama, drama, drama... Love it...

Will really showed how his maturity level has grown by how he handled the situation with Josh. It wasn't about just defusing the situation but making sure that Josh understood what he had to lose with his behavior. Will is showing that he understands how to not only handle situations within the family but those that directly effect the family from outside. Mark has indicated that he really hasn't made up his mind about Matt and Wade ending up together but I am starting to think his subconscious has done so even if he hasn't. The writing not just in this chapter but in this book has been superb when dealing with the interaction between Matt and Wade. It is nice to see that they both understand now why they need some time apart, that doesn't mean it doesn't hurt or that they can't get jealous about what the other is doing or involved in. I have been dealing with teens for over twenty years that there is no way that any big combine or exhibition was not booked up months or even a year in advance. They always keep a couple of slots open for last minute entries but Barry would have known about his months in advance. Zach is a full if he thinks that Will is just going to roll over for him every time that Barry or his parents find a new excuse to keep them apart. Plus, Will is right, what JP was trying to do might have more effect on Zach's future then this one combine/exhibition ever could. What so many teens and even their parents never realize until it is to late is that even if you have elite level talent that doesn't guarantee success. Injury, lack of drive, burnout, and other factors can keep even those with elite talent from reaching the top; but an education that that talent can help get you will always be there no matter what. I am not sure if Will and Zach are going to make it but Zach needs to start growing up and realizing that talent alone will not get him where he wants to go... A truly great chapter, Mark, hope you are enjoying creating and writing this book as we are reading it...

Matt is for me at least just becoming more and more impressive. The whole conversation with Cam was just perfect. Matt came across as mature and someone that really knows what he wants but is also trying to make sure that his actions don't negatively impact those around him. I found his statements about how Wade would always be in his life very telling. I like how he was upfront with Cam, and I will bet he will be with those coming down the pike. I also thought that Matt's reflections while running were just as important. I thought that Matt handled the situation with Will and Devon really well. I have to wonder if Will told Devon how old he really is? I know that in the past he has been really upfront so I can't see that changing, but a little surprised if he did that Devon still chose to go there, not that most wouldn't have but... The fact that Matt and Wade could have that conversation with each other the next morning says a lot about how far their relationship has truly come. Glad to see that are making such great progress.

A truly great chapter; this was fun and just a perfect treat for the holiday. I read it and just kept laughing out loud. It was a nice way to lighten the day from being stuck inside with all the rain here in central Texas. The scene on the plane and then at the condo with Will, Matt, JJ, and Stef was priceless. It is so funny to watch how Stef is when someone does to him what he does to JP. JJ is just becoming more and more interesting to me. I love how he handled himself on both the plane and then at the building site. The whole scene with Cam from start to finish was just so well done but the last few lines were just perfect. Thanks for this treat today, Mark, hope that your holiday is going well...

Another great chapter, this one was just sort of fun; or at least to me it was... It is amazing how well both Will, Stef, and Matt understand how to handle JJ. I hope that Wade takes some of Matt's advice and doesn't feel the need to dispose of his body over the next few years... I thought the whole scene with Matt and Wade from the intimacy to dealing with both Laura and Brenda was just perfect. I think Matt has read Laura right and I do believe that part of her issue is that she never really got over Robbie. I was hoping that after the last couple of times Brad and Brenda interacted that maybe she had gotten to a better place but maybe not. I was glad to see both Matt and Wade came back at her and did not just give up the fight. I have to wonder what the design emergency is? I will be interested to see JJ's input on it and see how it is resolved. A trip to Chicago with this group is never a calm event. I still see some choppy waters ahead for Will and Zach. I do hope that they are able to have some time in Hawaii and Europe but summer is a prime time for football camps in the south. I did think the way that Matt let Zach know that Will had plenty of chances to get with another guy was well done; also nice to see Will assure Zach that nothing happened. Adding JJ and Wade to the Hawaii trip might mean that not just the waves are gonna be the cause of a bumpy ride... LOL...

This was just a special chapter. The writing was unbelievable. This may have been the most complete and well rounded chapter of this story so far. I thought the fact that JP was willing to step out of the head of the table in this instance was very important. The wordplay between JP and Brad, Brad and Stef, and Brad and Claire were so perfect and had such feeling even though there was a teasing tone to all of them. Brad giving his four sons the rings was a fitting conclusion to his ending of the mourning period for Robbie. Each of them reacted in a way that shows they understood how truly important this was not only to Brad but each of their memories of Robbie. Frank's speech was maybe the most impressive. Frank has been a part of this story for thirty plus years at this point and this maybe the most he has ever spoken at one time. In a way, Frank's speech gives them all license to start moving on from Robbie's death into their new lives without him. Matt and Wade have so much history and the pull that they feel for each other is so impressive. I can't say that I am as sure as I was when this story started that they will end up together; but I am now sure that they will stay friends and be in each other's lives no matter what. A truly perfect chapter, Mark, congrats....

This was just a really sweet chapter. The sale of Ander-Hayes made sense because no one in the family was really interested in working there or staying on top of it. Because of the work that Robbie did, the future of the company was bright and they got the best deal possible. I think Robbie would be very happy that he has given all of his children the security that this deal has given them all; not that part of them won't get much more from others but... It was nice to see that Matt still has some type of connection with Cam. I am not sure where this is going but I am sure Mark is going to make it interesting. Matt's statement to Will about what he wants and why he isn't sure what he is going to do about Cam was perfect. I noticed that several people commented in ways that makes me question if they really understood the relationship between Matt and Wade at all. What Matt said makes perfect sense for someone in his position and I hope he finds whatever he is really looking for. Brad's reasoning behind having the old school torn down gives a glimpse into the one thing about Brad that I truly do admire; he will do anything to protect those he loves, even in death. Mark, someone else said it but I am going to second the notion; are you turning into a true romantic???

Oh my Freaking God, I just about died. Talk about a blast from the past; Cam is just about the last possible person that I could have thought of popping up. I wonder if this will make it harder for Matt to not say anything. Have we ever heard about Cam since we heard he came out at college? I thought Matt handled the situation with Josh about as well as he could have under the circumstances. That was the one thing about Matt and Wade is that they at least were up front with each other; or at least until Wade's last fling with Brad. I always thought that Matt made a better top than bottom, even though he enjoys both. I never could stand guys like Josh that thought the fact they were the top meant they got to decide ever nuance of the night and the sex. Will was great when he helped the other guy out of the jam with his card. I know that 300.00 wasn't a big deal to Will but for the other guy it was probably a major issue. I always thought it was sad how some guys let others take advantage of them but it happens way to much... Another great chapter and one that really moved the story along, I can't wait to see the next few chapters....

Really enjoyed this chapter a lot; there seemed to be much more to it than what was on the surface. The scene on the plane with Stef, Matt, and Will talking about the buyout was really interesting. Matt is much more like Brad only looking at the money and equity side while Will is more like Stef looking at the people and big picture. It was an interesting contrast. It was also interesting that Will did not seem to view the $15,000,000.00 as that big a deal while for Matt the amount really gave him pause. I would think that money on top of the money he has from the $100,000.00 dollars in Google that Stef gave him would set him for life after the company goes public at the end of 2004. The equity in Google might very well be worth quite a bit more than the $15,000,000.00 when Google goes public. I thought Will handled himself really well in the initial meeting with the new owner of the bar. If Stef had not wanted Will to take the actions that he did, then I bet there would have been a signal or something for Will to pull back. Much like the meeting with Zach's advisor, Will understands first impressions matter in business even more than real life. I found Matt's reaction the new owner interesting as well. Not just the physical reaction to him but the understanding of what drives him and his belief that the man will succeed in the end. I actually lived above a bar on 6th Street in Austin in the early 80's when I moved back to Austin to go to UT. The apartment was actually really well sound-proofed and unless I had the windows open; the noise wasn't too bad except a couple of times a year during major celebrations. Living above the bar was not as much of a distraction as one would think, I was only 18 but at the time you only had to be 18 in Texas to drink... The scene when Matt and Will are going out and Will indicates that he only wants to sleep with Zach and Matt realizes that even though he loved Wade but never felt that was very poignant. I will be very interested to see where you take all of this Mark, can't wait for the next update...

WOW, this was just so well done. I can say that the writing and pacing of this story has been among the best of the CAP series and that is saying a whole lot. Brad going to New York to pick up Robbie's rings was just so powerful. I fully understand why Brad would have wanted to handle this on his own. I hope that this is the final body blow that Brad will have to deal with stemming from this tragedy. I sort of wonder what he will do with the rings; that action will be very telling about where Brad is in dealing with all of this. I thought the conversation between Brad and Zach was well done as well. I felt that Brad was really telling Zach and as long as he doesn't f&$k Will over, then the family will be there for him at least to some extent. Zach is going to have to decide how much he is willing to give up and keep hidden about himself in order to achieve his goal of a professional career in the NFL. I can't wait for Stef, Matt, and Will to get to Chicago. I hope they find just the perfect place for Matt and Stef gets to have a somewhat free hand in decorating it. I bet Stef could do something really special that would work out well for Matt. I am sure that Stef/JP will buy him the place and do what they can to make Matt's stay in Chicago for the next couple of years enjoyable. It says a lot about how far Matt has come that he asked Will to go to Chicago with he and Stef. I have a feeling that there might be an adventure in the making. Somehow, I see Will as the damsel in distress more than Matt but we will just have to see what Mark comes up with.... Great job....

I just cried. In some ways, this seems like Brad's last sweet sorrowful goodbye to Robbie. He isn't forgetting him but forgiving him and letting all the negativity start to slid out of his life and memories. The scene with Matt and Casey was just so well written and was letter perfect. I have been on both sides of that type of conversations and the feeling was just perfectly conveyed. Matt has begun to move into the next stage of his life. I hope that Matt and Will along with Zach have a great trip and get to spend some quality time together. I believe that Matt and Brad will be in a better place and can be there for each other. I have to say that I still would like Matt and Wade to eventually end up together. I realize that they both probably need some time apart to grow into themselves and figure out who they are and how that relates to all those around them but that special spark they have is so rare. Just a really great chapter, Mark, well done....

A truly amazing chapter filled with loss and love and hope and forgiveness. People don't always understand how powerful specific places can be and how they can trigger deeper emotions and memories. The flashback was written so eloquently and with such love. Brad needs to forgive Robbie and he needs to understand that the core of what made Robbie who he was left him no choice but to go back after Jeanine and Hank. I hope this was a start to Brad coming to terms with what happened and working toward recovery. I hope that Brad and Matt can find a way to have each other in their lives because they both really do need each other. What a truly wonderful way to end a lovely Sunday afternoon...

Another truly wonderful chapter in this saga; there just does not ever seem to be a misstep in the writing or storyline, it is just as close to perfection as possible. An extremely rare honor for a sitting King of that time to actually visit a warship, even when anchored up to the Tower. I am sure that Granger and Caroline along with the officers and others will pull this off magnificently and it will be a night to remember for all involved... Thomas Bruce, Lord Elgin, was able to complete a very difficult task not only in Turkey but in saving many historical pieces from destruction. There is a great deal of argument now whether is was out right theft or someone that truly cared about the pieces but the rate they were being destroyed by the Turks mean that his actions saved a treasure trove for future generations to study and admire no matter where they ended up... I don't know much about the wife other than she had an affair later in the marriage and they publically aired a great deal of dirty laundry and divorced but I can't see her adding much to the voyage. The man of God might just need to meet the right person to have a truly heavenly experience to open his mind and heart... I do think the intervention with Admiral Nelson will be the most difficult part of the voyage personally for Granger. He cares for and admires Nelson and will want to do what he can to help without coming across as putting himself in a position that he has no right to be in. Turkey is a place of mystery and wonder and great sensuality in that time. I for one will be very interested to see Granger in that setting... Bravo...

Problems, problems, problems; boy I sure do see them down the road for Will and Zach but I think we should just all enjoy the moment and bask in the sun... I did think the scene with Will and Zach was hot and so enjoyable especially the words they finally spoke. I think that Will may have understood Brad and Robbie better than most. I really enjoy when Will is able to look at others in his life and is able to learn or draw a lesson from them without going through all the drama they did. Will handled the Tony situation much better than I ever anticipated. I think it will be very healthy for all involved to forgive the others but that doesn't mean you ever really forget it. I think the first couple of in person meeting between Will and Tony will be interesting especially if Will has spent any time being celibate. I still don't buy Brad being as involved with Wade as this is coming off. I understand it better if he was doing this to punish Robbie by hurting Matt but I just don't see that creating a bond that Brad saw between himself and Wade; plus since it was between stories we don't have all the nuances that were at play. Brad's biggest issue with everyone has always been loyalty. The times that there have been the biggest family fights with him involved the central question was always one of loyalty to family above all. I can see his anger at Robbie for going back up making him want to hurt Matt; but to engage in an action that could seriously rupture the family and damage his position in it forever just doesn't seem like something he would do even when consumed with grief. His actions mirror Sam's so much from the past that I just have a problem that he engaged in this at all even with all the trauma and tragedy involved. I was suprised that at least Frank was not at the meeting with the "advisor"... I can sort of see Isidore not being there but Frank has really been in Zach's corner and has uprooted his life to make sure that Zach can play where he needs to and has really been there for him. The fact that Barry even started the meeting with anyone else there makes me really question his ethics. That said, I can't see him ever really crossing Zach because of the potential money invovled plus; being in California, he would have to be aware of the power and influence of the Crampton and Schulter families and their interest in this matter. The picture of Barry's face in my mind when he realized that Brad had been there for most of the conversation was just priceless. The maturity of the writing and the seamless from of the story is on display so much in this story. Mark, you truly have the heart and soul of a bard....