Laguna Beach, 1973. Hal�s life as a liberated gay men has not gone all that well, and after a devastating relationship, he sees nothing but gloom, hard work and abuse from his restaurant job. He wallows in self-pity in the darkened rooms of his house, and only reluctantly rents out the spare room to the ebullient Mike whose sunny disposition brings Hal up out of despair. When Mike meets Tom who moves in too, Hal gratefully feels almost like a parent, as if he has a family to care for. Then he meets Simon with whom he falls in love after a steamy, erotic night together, and that phenomenon of gay life, the gay family, becomes a reality. Even the selfish and cruel Denise, owner of the restaurant where they all work, has little effect on their life together, but it is not a life without issues. Who is the Lurker spying on their house? Will Eric�s plan to snatch Jean-Jacques� restaurant succeed? Can Carl finally figure out his sexuality? Can Norman keep his housewarming party a secret from Dan and why would he want to? Find out who next will drop into the warm and hospitable House on Shadow Lane for a breakfast chat, good food, and genuine friendship. REVIEW of The House on Shadow Lane: Peopled with such interesting and varied characters, the plot of The House on Shadow Lane required a skillful hand to keep events moving at its almost frantic pace while remaining believable. As Robert Heylmun weaves the lives of his characters into the nap of his plot, their connections produce the complicated, even twisted, events that make the novel so intriguing. How, the reader wonders, will the romance developing between Hal and Simon survive the challenges they face? How will Carl, who is "in love two people of different genders" decide? While readers have likely never know such characters or situations, the author�s ingenious interplay cements the reader�s interest. As a result, readers will likely share on finishing The House on Shadow Lane, a "joyful sense of loss" that paradoxically occurs whenever I finish a novel I have much enjoyed. Good stories like this leave the reader to ponder what will happen next to those characters. I knew I would like this book. �Michael Dryden

Laguna Beach, 1973. Hal�s life as a liberated gay men has not gone all that well, and after a devastating relationship, he sees nothing but gloom, hard work and abuse from his restaurant job. He wallows in self-pity in the darkened rooms of his house, and only reluctantly rents out the spare room to the ebullient Mike whose sunny disposition brings Hal up out of despair. When Mike meets Tom who moves in too, Hal gratefully feels almost like a parent, as if he has a family to care for. Then he meets Simon with whom he falls in love after a steamy, erotic night together, and that phenomenon of gay life, the gay family, becomes a reality. Even the selfish and cruel Denise, owner of the restaurant where they all work, has little effect on their life together, but it is not a life without issues. Who is the Lurker spying on their house? Will Eric�s plan to snatch Jean-Jacques� restaurant succeed? Can Carl finally figure out his sexuality? Can Norman keep his housewarming party a secret from Dan and why would he want to? Find out who next will drop into the warm and hospitable House on Shadow Lane for a breakfast chat, good food, and genuine friendship. REVIEW of The House on Shadow Lane: Peopled with such interesting and varied characters, the plot of The House on Shadow Lane required a skillful hand to keep events moving at its almost frantic pace while remaining believable. As Robert Heylmun weaves the lives of his characters into the nap of his plot, their connections produce the complicated, even twisted, events that make the novel so intriguing. How, the reader wonders, will the romance developing between Hal and Simon survive the challenges they face? How will Carl, who is "in love two people of different genders" decide? While readers have likely never know such characters or situations, the author�s ingenious interplay cements the reader�s interest. As a result, readers will likely share on finishing The House on Shadow Lane, a "joyful sense of loss" that paradoxically occurs whenever I finish a novel I have much enjoyed. Good stories like this leave the reader to ponder what will happen next to those characters. I knew I would like this book. �Michael Dryden

Second Thursday, Twelfth Day Eleven days ago, Mark Schaeffer brought his scout troop to Camp Walker for its annual two-week summer camp. This is his fifth camp as a scoutmaster, and it is the most momentous for him personally and professionally. His decision on the first day to house Julian in the cabin has proven to be a success for Julian, and unexpectedly, for himself. His intent was to shield Julian from extra-curricular encounters. Julian has had an unexpected impact; his own life goals are being examined anew. The last three days of camp are packed with activity. Merit badges have to be awarded, competitions held and goodbyes made. There is unfinished personal business to complete, and there are campsites to close. A few new developments manage to find their way into the story. Julian�s fascination with the curmudgeonly camp Ranger continues. He and Sarge develop a special relationship. We get to know more about this man and how Julian has managed to change his outlook on life. Danny makes a winning goal in the final water polo game and becomes a major camp star. Julian makes two bulls-eyes in Archery. Afterward, he goes to the lake to do the drawing of Canoeing with Jeremy and Kurt. He asks Leonard to critique his drawing of Geoff being treated at the first aid station. Leonard is amazed at the quality of the work, and at the impact of seeing Geoff�s image. Geoff is forced to convalesce during the day. He borrows a pair of binoculars and spends the afternoon watching Mark coach at the Archery Range. He is determined to make his late night visit to the scoutmaster�s cabin. Tom and Nick provide a spectacular finale for Freddy�s Shooting Gallery. Julian does a large portrait of Mark in a standing position. Mark is overwhelmed by its character and quality. Geoff arrives at the cabin just before midnight. He re-injures himself on the way. He doesn�t know that Julian sleeps there. Mark is appalled and has to come up with a solution. He decides to carry Geoff back to his camp. Second Friday, Thirteenth Day: It takes Mark over two hours to deliver Geoff back to Hawk camp. Temptations along the way are overcome. Julian is unaware of the late night endeavor and helps Mark start the day with enthusiasm and unqualified support. The last full day of camp is so packed with activity it seems impossible to get everything done in time for closing activities the next day. Danny returns to his regular duties; Julian tells him about the unusual event with Paul and Alex at the Lynx camp, but not about Doug the day before. Doug revises his scheme to entrap Julian a second time and snags Danny instead. Tom finishes organizing the last day�s competition. He enlists Leonard�s silent cooperation. Danny and Tony skip out on Tom�s time trials. Leonard sees the opportunity and takes delight in serving as matchmaker. He believes that the conservative Danny needs anti-establishment Tony to bring his life into balance. Leonard is stunned by the portrait of Uncle Max, and its ability to depict the old man�s innate kindness. Julian presents Leonard his portrait. Its uncanny depiction of Leonard�s innate sensuality is a shock; Leonard is flattered, delighted, and frightened. He hides it under his table until he can get it safely away. Geoff gets a chewing from the medic for not treating his wound according to instructions. He goes to the lake and revives his plan to seduce Leonard. Leonard is beside himself with concern, having seen Julian�s drawing of Geoff being treated in the first aid station. Geoff uses it as the mechanism for setting up his clandestine meeting the next day. On his way to present the portrait of Uncle Max, Julian sees his motorcycle and sidecar. Sarge takes him for a brief ride, a treat that no other scout has been given. Sarge is rendered speechless by the portrait. At lunch we meet Stan, the runner up in the Shooting Gallery competition. He is a friend of Jack�s, and the two have a scheme to maneuver Tom into a special get together. Merit Badge certificates are presented on this the final day of class. Justin and Julian receive high praise for their Forestry presentation. Justin asks Julian to assist him by introducing him to Jeremy. The last afternoon free swimming period is the scene for several key developments. Tom completes his arrangements for the troop competitions, Julian brings Justin and Jeremy together, and Geoff finds the way to guarantee his rendezvous with Leonard on the last day of camp. Tom and Stan have a special meeting out on the platform. Stan is schooled by Tom about the realities of romantic involvement, and enlists him to return home as Jack�s support system. Jack is spending his last afternoon in camp with Robin; their secret romance began at the second poker game. At the last campfire Mark gives instructions about closing activities and details about the trip home. Mark and Julian have their last council meeting. Tony pays an after hours visit to Danny. They discover a connection that is irresistible and controlling. Leonard�s hunch proves to be spot on. Second Saturday, Fourteenth Day: Many awaken early on the last day. Sarge searches for a special item to give to Julian. Mark takes an early morning run. Leonard indulges himself by studying the portrait Julian has given him. Jeremy reflects on his new friendship with Justin. Alex is the cook for the Lynx patrol breakfast; each member of the patrol is highlighted. We get a better picture of Paul and Alex. After the awards are made at the final luncheon, Troop Nine breaks camp. Julian supervises the return of the featherbed mattresses to the warehouse. Borrowing them was his idea. Mark is kept ignorant. Uncle Max (Sarge) asks Julian to stay behind, delighted to have an opportunity to present his special gift, a memento from his World War II days. Uncle Max gives him a second ride in the sidecar. While the scouts watch the assembly, Geoff meets Leonard in the storeroom, ostensibly to have a close look Julian�s drawing of Leonard. It serves as the perfect device for Geoff to seduce Leonard. During a brief stop for food and rest room use on the bus trip home, Brad gets a slug in the arm for letting one fart too many. Mark gives personal thanks to Nick for mentoring Julian, and Tom has a brief talk with Robin about Jack. The last leg of the bus trip is after dark. Lots of last minute activity takes place at the back of the bus. Tony and Danny are first aboard; Kurt and Sid are close behind. They have a gratification need and a relationship to confirm. Paul and Doug do their standard stopwatch routine. Justin and Jeremy make plans to play together after they get home. Clint takes the initiative and sits next to Alex. Robin and Dick have a conversation at last, and Dick discovers that his friend is in trouble. Julian keeps the bus driver company and shows Mark the watch Uncle Max gave him. The parents are waiting to meet the bus; Francine, Julian�s mother, has had a brief romantic episode while he was away, and is unsure how to share that information. She drives Mark home as well, since he lives only two houses down the block. Julian rides in the back and reflects on how things stand. He renews his commitment to the long range goal of winning Mark as a life partner. He realizes that he has to face his responsibilities as a son, and that he needs to plan for his career. He is confident that he is up to the task.

Second Thursday, Twelfth Day Eleven days ago, Mark Schaeffer brought his scout troop to Camp Walker for its annual two-week summer camp. This is his fifth camp as a scoutmaster, and it is the most momentous for him personally and professionally. His decision on the first day to house Julian in the cabin has proven to be a success for Julian, and unexpectedly, for himself. His intent was to shield Julian from extra-curricular encounters. Julian has had an unexpected impact; his own life goals are being examined anew. The last three days of camp are packed with activity. Merit badges have to be awarded, competitions held and goodbyes made. There is unfinished personal business to complete, and there are campsites to close. A few new developments manage to find their way into the story. Julian�s fascination with the curmudgeonly camp Ranger continues. He and Sarge develop a special relationship. We get to know more about this man and how Julian has managed to change his outlook on life. Danny makes a winning goal in the final water polo game and becomes a major camp star. Julian makes two bulls-eyes in Archery. Afterward, he goes to the lake to do the drawing of Canoeing with Jeremy and Kurt. He asks Leonard to critique his drawing of Geoff being treated at the first aid station. Leonard is amazed at the quality of the work, and at the impact of seeing Geoff�s image. Geoff is forced to convalesce during the day. He borrows a pair of binoculars and spends the afternoon watching Mark coach at the Archery Range. He is determined to make his late night visit to the scoutmaster�s cabin. Tom and Nick provide a spectacular finale for Freddy�s Shooting Gallery. Julian does a large portrait of Mark in a standing position. Mark is overwhelmed by its character and quality. Geoff arrives at the cabin just before midnight. He re-injures himself on the way. He doesn�t know that Julian sleeps there. Mark is appalled and has to come up with a solution. He decides to carry Geoff back to his camp. Second Friday, Thirteenth Day: It takes Mark over two hours to deliver Geoff back to Hawk camp. Temptations along the way are overcome. Julian is unaware of the late night endeavor and helps Mark start the day with enthusiasm and unqualified support. The last full day of camp is so packed with activity it seems impossible to get everything done in time for closing activities the next day. Danny returns to his regular duties; Julian tells him about the unusual event with Paul and Alex at the Lynx camp, but not about Doug the day before. Doug revises his scheme to entrap Julian a second time and snags Danny instead. Tom finishes organizing the last day�s competition. He enlists Leonard�s silent cooperation. Danny and Tony skip out on Tom�s time trials. Leonard sees the opportunity and takes delight in serving as matchmaker. He believes that the conservative Danny needs anti-establishment Tony to bring his life into balance. Leonard is stunned by the portrait of Uncle Max, and its ability to depict the old man�s innate kindness. Julian presents Leonard his portrait. Its uncanny depiction of Leonard�s innate sensuality is a shock; Leonard is flattered, delighted, and frightened. He hides it under his table until he can get it safely away. Geoff gets a chewing from the medic for not treating his wound according to instructions. He goes to the lake and revives his plan to seduce Leonard. Leonard is beside himself with concern, having seen Julian�s drawing of Geoff being treated in the first aid station. Geoff uses it as the mechanism for setting up his clandestine meeting the next day. On his way to present the portrait of Uncle Max, Julian sees his motorcycle and sidecar. Sarge takes him for a brief ride, a treat that no other scout has been given. Sarge is rendered speechless by the portrait. At lunch we meet Stan, the runner up in the Shooting Gallery competition. He is a friend of Jack�s, and the two have a scheme to maneuver Tom into a special get together. Merit Badge certificates are presented on this the final day of class. Justin and Julian receive high praise for their Forestry presentation. Justin asks Julian to assist him by introducing him to Jeremy. The last afternoon free swimming period is the scene for several key developments. Tom completes his arrangements for the troop competitions, Julian brings Justin and Jeremy together, and Geoff finds the way to guarantee his rendezvous with Leonard on the last day of camp. Tom and Stan have a special meeting out on the platform. Stan is schooled by Tom about the realities of romantic involvement, and enlists him to return home as Jack�s support system. Jack is spending his last afternoon in camp with Robin; their secret romance began at the second poker game. At the last campfire Mark gives instructions about closing activities and details about the trip home. Mark and Julian have their last council meeting. Tony pays an after hours visit to Danny. They discover a connection that is irresistible and controlling. Leonard�s hunch proves to be spot on. Second Saturday, Fourteenth Day: Many awaken early on the last day. Sarge searches for a special item to give to Julian. Mark takes an early morning run. Leonard indulges himself by studying the portrait Julian has given him. Jeremy reflects on his new friendship with Justin. Alex is the cook for the Lynx patrol breakfast; each member of the patrol is highlighted. We get a better picture of Paul and Alex. After the awards are made at the final luncheon, Troop Nine breaks camp. Julian supervises the return of the featherbed mattresses to the warehouse. Borrowing them was his idea. Mark is kept ignorant. Uncle Max (Sarge) asks Julian to stay behind, delighted to have an opportunity to present his special gift, a memento from his World War II days. Uncle Max gives him a second ride in the sidecar. While the scouts watch the assembly, Geoff meets Leonard in the storeroom, ostensibly to have a close look Julian�s drawing of Leonard. It serves as the perfect device for Geoff to seduce Leonard. During a brief stop for food and rest room use on the bus trip home, Brad gets a slug in the arm for letting one fart too many. Mark gives personal thanks to Nick for mentoring Julian, and Tom has a brief talk with Robin about Jack. The last leg of the bus trip is after dark. Lots of last minute activity takes place at the back of the bus. Tony and Danny are first aboard; Kurt and Sid are close behind. They have a gratification need and a relationship to confirm. Paul and Doug do their standard stopwatch routine. Justin and Jeremy make plans to play together after they get home. Clint takes the initiative and sits next to Alex. Robin and Dick have a conversation at last, and Dick discovers that his friend is in trouble. Julian keeps the bus driver company and shows Mark the watch Uncle Max gave him. The parents are waiting to meet the bus; Francine, Julian�s mother, has had a brief romantic episode while he was away, and is unsure how to share that information. She drives Mark home as well, since he lives only two houses down the block. Julian rides in the back and reflects on how things stand. He renews his commitment to the long range goal of winning Mark as a life partner. He realizes that he has to face his responsibilities as a son, and that he needs to plan for his career. He is confident that he is up to the task.

When John Funder arrives in town as a caretaker of his bedfast grandmother, everyone notices him, including Bran, a young blond man, who recognizes John as the gay movie star, Johnny Th under. When the grandmother gets a threatening phone call, she seeks Bran�s help in discovering what is behind it. John and Bran are sent off to the summer residence, and when they return, they fi nd the old lady has been murdered. Now Bran must try to solve the mystery. John and Bran have fallen in love, and things get complicated as John�s ex-partner comes to take him back and divorced policeman, Chad, falls for Bran. Meanwhile, the murderer hopes to make Bran his next victim.

When John Funder arrives in town as a caretaker of his bedfast grandmother, everyone notices him, including Bran, a young blond man, who recognizes John as the gay movie star, Johnny Th under. When the grandmother gets a threatening phone call, she seeks Bran�s help in discovering what is behind it. John and Bran are sent off to the summer residence, and when they return, they fi nd the old lady has been murdered. Now Bran must try to solve the mystery. John and Bran have fallen in love, and things get complicated as John�s ex-partner comes to take him back and divorced policeman, Chad, falls for Bran. Meanwhile, the murderer hopes to make Bran his next victim.

When John Funder arrives in town as a caretaker of his bedfast grandmother, everyone notices him, including Bran, a young blond man, who recognizes John as the gay movie star, Johnny Th under. When the grandmother gets a threatening phone call, she seeks Bran�s help in discovering what is behind it. John and Bran are sent off to the summer residence, and when they return, they fi nd the old lady has been murdered. Now Bran must try to solve the mystery. John and Bran have fallen in love, and things get complicated as John�s ex-partner comes to take him back and divorced policeman, Chad, falls for Bran. Meanwhile, the murderer hopes to make Bran his next victim.

Thunder and Lightning:  Julian's Private Scrapbook, Part 4

Days nine, ten and eleven at Camp Walker.  Adventure and high risk taking are the fare in this segment of camp life in the 1960s.  A thunderstorm in the middle of the night provides challenges and opportunity, and two serious injuries change the course of events. A few new story developments and characters appear, and Julian gets much closer to reaching his goal than he realizes.

Ninth Day: Second Monday
The story begins just after midnight on the dock at Camp Walker. Sunday night, Robin and Jack snuck out of their respective camps to meet for an overnight tryst. They plan to greet the sunrise and slip back into their tents before anyone else is awake.
The second week at the scout camp has begun; everyone will be back on task working on merit badges and advancing to the next rank. The mid morning activity break includes intramural water polo, where Mark Schaeffer is one of the coaches. Mark is scoutmaster of Troop Nine.
Mark has been targeted by Geoff Staples, the sophisticated scout from California. Geoff was on duty at the special service yesterday. He was totally entranced by Mark when he led Troop Nine up to the building. On the spot he decided to add Mark to his considerable list of sexual conquests. He pursues his quest with vigor. Mark does not suspect Geoff's motives, and he has a few extremely awkward experiences.
Mark's skill and purpose as a scoutmaster gets some attention; he deals with the problem of camp politics and relations with the other scoutmasters.
Nick Harrison and Tom Dawson are the top officers in Troop Nine. With Julian's assistance, they have created a special sleeping arrangement in the troop supply tent, and disguised it to avoid detection by the scoutmaster. Their romance has brought purpose and happiness to Tom, who is determined to make amends for his years of bad behavior whenever he can; he follows through on his promise to Kurt, who he had forced to have sex a year and a half ago. This is accomplished, but it gives Kurt a new problem to solve.

Tenth Day: Second Tuesday
Yesterday afternoon's close order drill lesson gives subconscious minds an impetus to reveal inner drives; that phenomenon is experienced by Mark and Geoff in an oddly similar way.
Geoff begins to clear his private trail, and discovers the secret romance of Jack and Robin.
Danny suspects Geoff's intentions and takes it on himself to stand guard and protect his unsuspecting scoutmaster.
Julian's natural ability to perceive others' needs makes him invaluable to both Mark and Sid as it had on Saturday for Nick and Tom. Julian's artistic skill evolves by leaps... portraits and personal qualities become his subject matter.
Nick helps Kurt find a way to move forward.
Nick and Tom have a rare afternoon free of responsibility or obligations, and they give Leonard a little vicarious pleasure.
Leonard becomes discreetly supportive of several of Troop Nine's scouts and their personal needs.
Alex mentors Clint during an overnight Backpacking merit badge hike.

Eleventh Day: Second Wednesday
Camp Walker is shaken by a thunderstorm shortly after midnight. Some are better prepared to meet the challenge than others. We get a peek into the world of Troop 419, and Geoff's natural leadership ability. The overnight hikers are caught out in the open. Alex and Clint are forced into an unexpected survival compromise.
Danny is welcomed as a water polo strategist; he has his very best day yet at camp. He ends the day setting an even higher personal goal.
Julian is given an unexpected promotion. His day is packed with variety and achievement. He becomes acquainted with the Camp Director.
Doug, one of the stopwatch boys, discovers Julian.
Nick debuts as a solo lifeguard; he offers the Shooting Gallery operators a special event that he and Tom have conceived.
Geoff finishes his trail, but has a very nasty surprise that threatens to end his special project.
We get a glimpse of the Camp staff and their efficiency and competence. Introducing Harold, the First Aid medic, and Sarge Oliver, the camp Ranger and Quartermaster.
Only three days remain in camp—there is a lot left to do.  That's what the dreams and the worries are about after bedtime on Wednesday—how everything turns out will be revealed in Part 5.

Thunder and Lightning:  Julian's Private Scrapbook, Part 4

Days nine, ten and eleven at Camp Walker.  Adventure and high risk taking are the fare in this segment of camp life in the 1960s.  A thunderstorm in the middle of the night provides challenges and opportunity, and two serious injuries change the course of events. A few new story developments and characters appear, and Julian gets much closer to reaching his goal than he realizes.

Ninth Day: Second Monday
The story begins just after midnight on the dock at Camp Walker. Sunday night, Robin and Jack snuck out of their respective camps to meet for an overnight tryst. They plan to greet the sunrise and slip back into their tents before anyone else is awake.
The second week at the scout camp has begun; everyone will be back on task working on merit badges and advancing to the next rank. The mid morning activity break includes intramural water polo, where Mark Schaeffer is one of the coaches. Mark is scoutmaster of Troop Nine.
Mark has been targeted by Geoff Staples, the sophisticated scout from California. Geoff was on duty at the special service yesterday. He was totally entranced by Mark when he led Troop Nine up to the building. On the spot he decided to add Mark to his considerable list of sexual conquests. He pursues his quest with vigor. Mark does not suspect Geoff's motives, and he has a few extremely awkward experiences.
Mark's skill and purpose as a scoutmaster gets some attention; he deals with the problem of camp politics and relations with the other scoutmasters.
Nick Harrison and Tom Dawson are the top officers in Troop Nine. With Julian's assistance, they have created a special sleeping arrangement in the troop supply tent, and disguised it to avoid detection by the scoutmaster. Their romance has brought purpose and happiness to Tom, who is determined to make amends for his years of bad behavior whenever he can; he follows through on his promise to Kurt, who he had forced to have sex a year and a half ago. This is accomplished, but it gives Kurt a new problem to solve.

Tenth Day: Second Tuesday
Yesterday afternoon's close order drill lesson gives subconscious minds an impetus to reveal inner drives; that phenomenon is experienced by Mark and Geoff in an oddly similar way.
Geoff begins to clear his private trail, and discovers the secret romance of Jack and Robin.
Danny suspects Geoff's intentions and takes it on himself to stand guard and protect his unsuspecting scoutmaster.
Julian's natural ability to perceive others' needs makes him invaluable to both Mark and Sid as it had on Saturday for Nick and Tom. Julian's artistic skill evolves by leaps... portraits and personal qualities become his subject matter.
Nick helps Kurt find a way to move forward.
Nick and Tom have a rare afternoon free of responsibility or obligations, and they give Leonard a little vicarious pleasure.
Leonard becomes discreetly supportive of several of Troop Nine's scouts and their personal needs.
Alex mentors Clint during an overnight Backpacking merit badge hike.

Eleventh Day: Second Wednesday
Camp Walker is shaken by a thunderstorm shortly after midnight. Some are better prepared to meet the challenge than others. We get a peek into the world of Troop 419, and Geoff's natural leadership ability. The overnight hikers are caught out in the open. Alex and Clint are forced into an unexpected survival compromise.
Danny is welcomed as a water polo strategist; he has his very best day yet at camp. He ends the day setting an even higher personal goal.
Julian is given an unexpected promotion. His day is packed with variety and achievement. He becomes acquainted with the Camp Director.
Doug, one of the stopwatch boys, discovers Julian.
Nick debuts as a solo lifeguard; he offers the Shooting Gallery operators a special event that he and Tom have conceived.
Geoff finishes his trail, but has a very nasty surprise that threatens to end his special project.
We get a glimpse of the Camp staff and their efficiency and competence. Introducing Harold, the First Aid medic, and Sarge Oliver, the camp Ranger and Quartermaster.
Only three days remain in camp—there is a lot left to do.  That's what the dreams and the worries are about after bedtime on Wednesday—how everything turns out will be revealed in Part 5.

If you could ask the person who broke your heart why they did it, would you?

In this sequel to When You’re Cold, we find that now Nathaniel Blake can’t avoid talking to the man that broke his heart in college. The big question is will Nate ask? And what will be the answer? Knowing the Mitchell Davis and his spouse, Marc Romero, are coming to the NIH, the reality sets in and Nate can’t think of much else. Good thing his new boyfriend, Ryan Stevens is there to help support him through this uncomfortable situation. But will Ryan’s insecurities make this situation more difficult? Back in London, Marc’s books are successful, but he’s struggling with the storyline. Sergio del Mundo’s personal life is getting more complicated as his relationship becomes more serious, but he’s not sure he can lean on Mitchell and their friend Paola Munoz the way he would like to. Everyone life is changing in many ways, can they all pull together to get through?

If you could ask the person who broke your heart why they did it, would you?

In this sequel to When You’re Cold, we find that now Nathaniel Blake can’t avoid talking to the man that broke his heart in college. The big question is will Nate ask? And what will be the answer? Knowing the Mitchell Davis and his spouse, Marc Romero, are coming to the NIH, the reality sets in and Nate can’t think of much else. Good thing his new boyfriend, Ryan Stevens is there to help support him through this uncomfortable situation. But will Ryan’s insecurities make this situation more difficult? Back in London, Marc’s books are successful, but he’s struggling with the storyline. Sergio del Mundo’s personal life is getting more complicated as his relationship becomes more serious, but he’s not sure he can lean on Mitchell and their friend Paola Munoz the way he would like to. Everyone life is changing in many ways, can they all pull together to get through?

If you could ask the person who broke your heart why they did it, would you?

In this sequel to When You’re Cold, we find that now Nathaniel Blake can’t avoid talking to the man that broke his heart in college. The big question is will Nate ask? And what will be the answer? Knowing the Mitchell Davis and his spouse, Marc Romero, are coming to the NIH, the reality sets in and Nate can’t think of much else. Good thing his new boyfriend, Ryan Stevens is there to help support him through this uncomfortable situation. But will Ryan’s insecurities make this situation more difficult? Back in London, Marc’s books are successful, but he’s struggling with the storyline. Sergio del Mundo’s personal life is getting more complicated as his relationship becomes more serious, but he’s not sure he can lean on Mitchell and their friend Paola Munoz the way he would like to. Everyone life is changing in many ways, can they all pull together to get through?

Days six, seven and eight at Camp Walker. The comical side of camp life in  the 1960s is featured, along with some new story developments. Julian Draws two portraits: Leonard, and then Mark. Julian and Mark's conferences continue. Julian feels empowered and undertakes a unique challenge: outfitting Nick and Tom's clandestine bedroom. He becomes their self-appointed secret guardian.

Friday:
The Scouts of Troop Nine have been in camp nearly a week. Their schedules and routines are well established. As in the previous two segments, Julian and Mark, remain our protagonists—but we take time to focus on a few secondary characters for a while. Some of these we have met in earlier scenes, others are in the spotlight for the first time.
Friday begins in high spirits. The annual troop barbecue and songfest last night was a huge success, but it creates a wakeup surprise for some. Max's baked beans and Brad's onions have been fermenting overnight.
Developments in the domestic life of the Flaming Arrow Patrol have stretched the limits of discretion. Nick and Tom have set up sleeping accommodations in the supply tent. Julian is fearful that Scoutmaster Mark will discover what is going on. By day's end, stability is assured.
Introducing Kurt Davis, a member of the Zebra patrol. Circumstances bring him into Julian's circle of friends, Jeremy, Sid and Justin. He has a grudge against Tom that he can't talk about directly. Sid's snorkel comes in handy again. Kurt wants to learn how it works. He gives Sid his first canoe ride.
Introducing Andy Ashbaugh and Tony Johnson. These two are close friends in Troop Nine that, unlike most, want to have more to do with Tom. Lots more.
Geoff and Nick become friends; Nick gets a glimpse of the outside world.

Saturday:
The first week of camp comes to a close; activity and involvement is at the highest level. Few appreciate that camp is half over: only a week remains, many behave as if they have all summer.
Julian feels empowered and secure because of his conference with Mark. He undertakes a unique domestic challenge.
Danny revisits his plan to secure Julian's affection.
Geoff selects Leonard as his special project. Ignoring the staff/scout boundary comes naturally.
Introducing Freddy, an entrepreneur from another troop. He recruits Andy to join his unauthorized enterprise.
The first week of camp ends with progress milestones for everyone in the leadership patrol. Danny gets a major promotion. Mark and Julian have evolved an aesthetic dimension in their relationship. Nick and Tom break in their new domicile.

Sunday:
Sunday is set aside at Camp Walker much like it is at home; it is set aside as a day of rest and reflection. Merit Badge and rank advancement classes are suspended. Relationships formed during the past week are in full swing however, and new ones will form during the final week of camp; conflicting interests arise as well, and unexpected tests of character are varied.
Troop Nine has a banner day showing off. Scoutmaster Mark provides Danny his debut as a leader by assigning him to lead the troop in place of Tom, the Junior Assistant. Nick has asked Julian to stay in camp instead of attending the special service. He and Tom have a ceremony planned to thank him for his effort yesterday to secure mattresses for their bed.
The scouts write letters home—several are shared with the reader.
Geoff takes up a new quest—his greatest, most daring challenge yet. He becomes obsessed.
Julian's drawing skills continue to advance and attract a wider audience. Mark's growing personal happiness is infectious; it feeds his enthusiasm for coaching water polo, and it makes him a magnetic figure in unplanned and unexpected ways.
Circumstances force Kurt to confront Tom, who has to set things right.
Justin and his private demon are explored. Mark is able to help.
It's opening day at Freddy's Shooting Gallery; Andy and Tony, still swaggering from their success in ambushing Tom, add their talents to the operation—they try to offset the annoying security precautions.
After hours: Robin sneaks out of bed for a rendezvous at the lake. He and Jack planned this daring exploit during the afternoon free swim period.

 

Days six, seven and eight at Camp Walker. The comical side of camp life in  the 1960s is featured, along with some new story developments. Julian Draws two portraits: Leonard, and then Mark. Julian and Mark's conferences continue. Julian feels empowered and undertakes a unique challenge: outfitting Nick and Tom's clandestine bedroom. He becomes their self-appointed secret guardian.

Friday:
The Scouts of Troop Nine have been in camp nearly a week. Their schedules and routines are well established. As in the previous two segments, Julian and Mark, remain our protagonists—but we take time to focus on a few secondary characters for a while. Some of these we have met in earlier scenes, others are in the spotlight for the first time.
Friday begins in high spirits. The annual troop barbecue and songfest last night was a huge success, but it creates a wakeup surprise for some. Max's baked beans and Brad's onions have been fermenting overnight.
Developments in the domestic life of the Flaming Arrow Patrol have stretched the limits of discretion. Nick and Tom have set up sleeping accommodations in the supply tent. Julian is fearful that Scoutmaster Mark will discover what is going on. By day's end, stability is assured.
Introducing Kurt Davis, a member of the Zebra patrol. Circumstances bring him into Julian's circle of friends, Jeremy, Sid and Justin. He has a grudge against Tom that he can't talk about directly. Sid's snorkel comes in handy again. Kurt wants to learn how it works. He gives Sid his first canoe ride.
Introducing Andy Ashbaugh and Tony Johnson. These two are close friends in Troop Nine that, unlike most, want to have more to do with Tom. Lots more.
Geoff and Nick become friends; Nick gets a glimpse of the outside world.

Saturday:
The first week of camp comes to a close; activity and involvement is at the highest level. Few appreciate that camp is half over: only a week remains, many behave as if they have all summer.
Julian feels empowered and secure because of his conference with Mark. He undertakes a unique domestic challenge.
Danny revisits his plan to secure Julian's affection.
Geoff selects Leonard as his special project. Ignoring the staff/scout boundary comes naturally.
Introducing Freddy, an entrepreneur from another troop. He recruits Andy to join his unauthorized enterprise.
The first week of camp ends with progress milestones for everyone in the leadership patrol. Danny gets a major promotion. Mark and Julian have evolved an aesthetic dimension in their relationship. Nick and Tom break in their new domicile.

Sunday:
Sunday is set aside at Camp Walker much like it is at home; it is set aside as a day of rest and reflection. Merit Badge and rank advancement classes are suspended. Relationships formed during the past week are in full swing however, and new ones will form during the final week of camp; conflicting interests arise as well, and unexpected tests of character are varied.
Troop Nine has a banner day showing off. Scoutmaster Mark provides Danny his debut as a leader by assigning him to lead the troop in place of Tom, the Junior Assistant. Nick has asked Julian to stay in camp instead of attending the special service. He and Tom have a ceremony planned to thank him for his effort yesterday to secure mattresses for their bed.
The scouts write letters home—several are shared with the reader.
Geoff takes up a new quest—his greatest, most daring challenge yet. He becomes obsessed.
Julian's drawing skills continue to advance and attract a wider audience. Mark's growing personal happiness is infectious; it feeds his enthusiasm for coaching water polo, and it makes him a magnetic figure in unplanned and unexpected ways.
Circumstances force Kurt to confront Tom, who has to set things right.
Justin and his private demon are explored. Mark is able to help.
It's opening day at Freddy's Shooting Gallery; Andy and Tony, still swaggering from their success in ambushing Tom, add their talents to the operation—they try to offset the annoying security precautions.
After hours: Robin sneaks out of bed for a rendezvous at the lake. He and Jack planned this daring exploit during the afternoon free swim period.

 

Days six, seven and eight at Camp Walker. The comical side of camp life in  the 1960s is featured, along with some new story developments. Julian Draws two portraits: Leonard, and then Mark. Julian and Mark's conferences continue. Julian feels empowered and undertakes a unique challenge: outfitting Nick and Tom's clandestine bedroom. He becomes their self-appointed secret guardian.

Friday:
The Scouts of Troop Nine have been in camp nearly a week. Their schedules and routines are well established. As in the previous two segments, Julian and Mark, remain our protagonists—but we take time to focus on a few secondary characters for a while. Some of these we have met in earlier scenes, others are in the spotlight for the first time.
Friday begins in high spirits. The annual troop barbecue and songfest last night was a huge success, but it creates a wakeup surprise for some. Max's baked beans and Brad's onions have been fermenting overnight.
Developments in the domestic life of the Flaming Arrow Patrol have stretched the limits of discretion. Nick and Tom have set up sleeping accommodations in the supply tent. Julian is fearful that Scoutmaster Mark will discover what is going on. By day's end, stability is assured.
Introducing Kurt Davis, a member of the Zebra patrol. Circumstances bring him into Julian's circle of friends, Jeremy, Sid and Justin. He has a grudge against Tom that he can't talk about directly. Sid's snorkel comes in handy again. Kurt wants to learn how it works. He gives Sid his first canoe ride.
Introducing Andy Ashbaugh and Tony Johnson. These two are close friends in Troop Nine that, unlike most, want to have more to do with Tom. Lots more.
Geoff and Nick become friends; Nick gets a glimpse of the outside world.

Saturday:
The first week of camp comes to a close; activity and involvement is at the highest level. Few appreciate that camp is half over: only a week remains, many behave as if they have all summer.
Julian feels empowered and secure because of his conference with Mark. He undertakes a unique domestic challenge.
Danny revisits his plan to secure Julian's affection.
Geoff selects Leonard as his special project. Ignoring the staff/scout boundary comes naturally.
Introducing Freddy, an entrepreneur from another troop. He recruits Andy to join his unauthorized enterprise.
The first week of camp ends with progress milestones for everyone in the leadership patrol. Danny gets a major promotion. Mark and Julian have evolved an aesthetic dimension in their relationship. Nick and Tom break in their new domicile.

Sunday:
Sunday is set aside at Camp Walker much like it is at home; it is set aside as a day of rest and reflection. Merit Badge and rank advancement classes are suspended. Relationships formed during the past week are in full swing however, and new ones will form during the final week of camp; conflicting interests arise as well, and unexpected tests of character are varied.
Troop Nine has a banner day showing off. Scoutmaster Mark provides Danny his debut as a leader by assigning him to lead the troop in place of Tom, the Junior Assistant. Nick has asked Julian to stay in camp instead of attending the special service. He and Tom have a ceremony planned to thank him for his effort yesterday to secure mattresses for their bed.
The scouts write letters home—several are shared with the reader.
Geoff takes up a new quest—his greatest, most daring challenge yet. He becomes obsessed.
Julian's drawing skills continue to advance and attract a wider audience. Mark's growing personal happiness is infectious; it feeds his enthusiasm for coaching water polo, and it makes him a magnetic figure in unplanned and unexpected ways.
Circumstances force Kurt to confront Tom, who has to set things right.
Justin and his private demon are explored. Mark is able to help.
It's opening day at Freddy's Shooting Gallery; Andy and Tony, still swaggering from their success in ambushing Tom, add their talents to the operation—they try to offset the annoying security precautions.
After hours: Robin sneaks out of bed for a rendezvous at the lake. He and Jack planned this daring exploit during the afternoon free swim period.