Published: 5 Feb 2024

All things must have a conclusion and so it was with Barrington’s second attempt at creating a period movie with a gay slant. Once the film, to use a well coined adage, was in the can, it was time for a formal first showing in its entirety and the National Theatre in St. Kilda was chosen for its premiere. As was expected Alun issued invitations to his parents and brother. Peter accepted and made apology for their parents, who didn’t even acknowledge the invitation, while Dianne was too involved in her own family tragedy to contemplate entertainment.

Although the audience appeared entertained, the film was only moderately accepted by the critics and had a short run in the theatres, with an even shorter run in a number of American theatres, they suggesting the film should have been issued with subtitles to avoid the Australian accent. One of the local critics reported, if between five and seven percent of Australian males are gay, then only ten percent would be interested in a gay movie and even less of that ten percent interested in a period movie. Possibly if there was a little more violence and more female nudity it may have drawn in a wider audience.

Although the film did not receive accolades it did give Alun exposure, with two offers of further parts coming soon after but neither were leading roles. As for Taylor any future work had dried away completely but as he admitted, he had only taken the part of Chance as a favor to Barrington.

After Alun’s disastrous home visit, it was a pleasure to enjoy the relaxing character of Jane, while nothing had been shared of his obvious developing relationship with her son. The boys had been home with Jane for almost a month with much of that time devoted to functions and interviews leaving little opportunity to think of their future. Now with most of the promotions completed, it was time to give attention to their future needs.

During a Friday afternoon while the boys were travelling home from their last interview, Alun receives a text from George Prentice his agent, asking him to make contact as soon as it was convenient. Alun releases a soft huh and turns of his mobile.

“Bad news?” Taylor asks as he misses the lights on Chapel and Toorak Roads, he is miffed as the cycle is long, with a number of vehicles in the turning lane blocking his progress.

“It’s from Prentice,” Alun says.

“Your agent?”

“That’s him.”

“Has he an offer of work for you.”

Alun doesn’t answer.

“We have to return the car next week; I guess it will be public transport after Tuesday.”

“I’m thinking of buying a car,” Alun says.

“You have never shown much interest in driving before.”

“It is better than walking.”

The lights change to green but the blockage is slow moving, “what sort of vehicle are you thinking of?” Taylor asks.

“Possibly a Lexus; maybe electric.”

“You will need to buy a house to plug it into the power, there’s bugger all otherwise.”

“It’s getting better, look there’s a charging station over there.”

“And it takes half an hour and there are two waiting already.”

“As for a house, would you like to live in the country?”

“As long as I could find work then I would say yes.”

“What if you could live in the country and never have to work again?” Alun asks.

“I won’t answer that as I’m not into daydreaming, although I must admit it could be fun, chickens, a dog, a couple of horses, maybe a few cows to send to market.”

“What about sheep?”

“I suppose I know a little about sheep but would prefer horses.”

“I suppose I could get used to the horses.”

“Is that your way of asking to live somewhere with you?”

“It is.”

“If you are fair dinkum I would say yes. Are you planning something Alun Hughes?”

“The traffic has cleared you better get going.”

The boys meet Jane at the corner of the street. Taylor pulls to the side of the road and calls, “do you want a lift mum?”

“What for a hundred yards?”

“Metres mum; you could never cope with metric could you?”

Alun alights and takes control of Jane’s shopping, walking with her as Taylor drives on, “at least I can help you carry this heavy lot,” Alun suggests.

“Thank you Alun, I’m not used to shopping for more than one.”

“I’m sorry, you should have waited until we returned home and we could have done it for you.”

Jane laughs; “you boys would buy all the wrong things, I’ve never known a man who could shop correctly.”

“Not even Tay?”

“Especially Tay; I remember as a boy I sent him to the bakery for a fresh loaf of bread and he ate most of the middle out by the time he returned.”

“Then I will need to second thought my thinking.”

“Are you planning something Alun?”

“It’s only an idea at the moment. Let’s say a thought is developing and for now leave it at that.”

After parking Taylor meets up in the kitchen as Alun dumps the shopping down on the side bench.

“Alun is thinking of buying a car,” Taylor says.

“Are you Alun, what model?”

“I haven’t made up my mind as yet.”

“He suggested an electric Lexus.”

“That would be expensive,” Jane says.

“True but it was only a thought, my father has a Lexus but it isn’t electric.”

“Have you patched things with your parents Alun?”

“Mum is getting there.”

“What about your father,” Jane asks.

“There is no hope with dad; he has all but disowned me.”

“Have you had offers of further work?” Jane asks.

“I’ve had some supporting roles but nothing interesting. You have reminded me I need to contact my agent.” Alun says and moves away in order to make the call.

“What about you Tay, have you had any offers?”

“None, but no worries I never had intentions to make a career out of acting, in this country it leaves you poor and frustrated,” Taylor admits while watching Alun make his call.

“George,” Alun says as he connects.

“Alun, I’m glad you got back as there is some urgency.”

“What’s up?”

“There has been a further offer for you but it isn’t locally.”

“Where?”

“Hollywood.”

“Is it the lead or supporting?” Alun asks.

“That is a little difficult to define. It is with that soapy Jack Cowper got a year or so back.”

“Has Cowper been sacked?” Alun breaks into a smirk.

“No, your offer is for his gay business associate, with a promise for further exposure if the character is publicly accepted.”

“I don’t think I want another gay role, not right away that is. How long have I to make a decision?”

“I’m afraid not very long; possibly a week at the most.”

“I’ll get back to you George.”

“Don’t procrastinate Alun, they won’t hold it.”

“Have you been offered work?” Taylor asks once Alun completes his call.

“I have.”

Taylor is obviously expecting elucidation but refrains from asking.

“It is in Hollywood,”

“Will you accept?” Taylor asks.

“It is tempting.”

“I think you should.” There is apprehension in Taylor’s tone but he feels he must be supportive.

“I dunno’ I have some other ideas. I’ll have a look at the contract and take it from there.” Alun is observing Taylor’s reaction, looking for some sign to keep him from accepting but as usual to character Taylor appears composed, ‘for once Tay show me reason not to take it,’ he thinks and again asks, “do you really think I should accept?”

“I would miss you being around but you do have your future to consider,” Taylor reasons.

“That doesn’t answer my question Tay.”

“I can’t speak for you Alun.”

During the conversation Jane remains detached as she puts away the shopping. Her thoughts are on that night’s meal and her intention to prepare something nice for the boys. Even so she did sense a change in their relationship, believing they displayed more intimacy in their attitude towards each other then they had during previous visits. Had Taylor at last found his soul mate? She would rather he found a girl and settle. Give her grandchildren to spoil but from a child she could see traits of her husband within the lad, deciding acceptance was better than denial.

“What do you think Jane?” Alun asks.

“About you taking the offer?’

“Yes.”

“I don’t think I am the right person to comment Alun. I guess you must do what you think is best for you.”

The deadline had approached and Alun needed to contact George Prentice with his decision, there appeared to be a wall developing between the boys, Alun wished to take Taylor by the shoulders and shake him violently saying, for Christ sake Tay tell me not to go. Tell me you want me with you but Taylor had previously lost someone who he thought would be his life’s mate and had learned to control any emotional downturn by avoiding commitment. If Alun was to become one more to that list be it so, then again if Taylor’s response had been lacking, so had that from Alun.

Friday morning Alun is in interview with his agent and the Hollywood offer remains tempting. Firstly he would receive three times what he got from Eighteen fifty-four or Eureka as it was finally released, with promise his part would expand if popular as would the money. What Alun found discouraging about the part was once again he was playing gay and in the shadows of Jack Cowper who played a pseudo straight role. During his short acquaintance with Jack Cowper, Alun had grown to dislike him and had doubts if he could work as Cowper’s support.

“It may only be for a short period,” Prentice confidently infers.

“Why is that so George?”

“There is rumor Cowper’s popularity with his public is declining, that is the reason they are looking for someone fresh who could eventually step up to the leading role.”

“I thought Cowper was playing a straight role and married?”

“Yes but with gay overtones,” Prentice laughs.

“Come on share it?”

“I shouldn’t say as it is also only a rumor but it has been bandied about Cowper’s character will be discovered in bed with the husband of a friend of his wife and written out.”

“Then why would they replace Cowper with a gay character?”

“It appears the American audience is warming towards gay but not infidelity, especially gay infidelity after fighting so hard for equal marriage rights and there are further rumors that Cowper was clocked coming out of a Castro Street gay bar with a young man attached to his arm.”

“Is that true?” Alun is enjoying Jack Cowper’s misfortune.

“It is true that it is rumored.”

Alun gives a broad smirk of satisfaction towards Cowper’s suggested decline but remains unconvinced, “how long would I be away?”

“How long is a piece of string Alun, possibly if the part is popular it could be years. Some American soapy actors grow old and die in their role.”

Alun takes a deep and concerning breath, “I must admit it is tempting George, unfortunately I have other plans.”

“Well lad, it is crunch time, I need a decision today,” George presses.

“I would need time.”

“I can’t offer you time, it’s either yes or no and now.”

“Then it is no. Sorry George it is heart over head and hoping I don’t regret it.”

“You do realise there may not be a local offer for some time, if at all.”

“My heart is not with acting anymore and I don’t think I could give any part the dedication it deserves.”

“What are your intentions?”

“Believe it or not George, from acting to investing.”

“You could do both.”

“Not this time George. I’m already feeling a weight lifting as I speak and am rather excited about my future prospects.”

After visiting his agent and declining the offer of work in America, Alun feels he needs a supportive ear and contacts Peter, finding his brother at home and intending towards his new residence. Alun arranges to meet with Peter although hesitant to again involve in his parent’s approaching divorce, even with Peter assuring their mother had settled since his previous visit, as far as showing remorse towards her treatment of Taylor.

Before visiting home Alun wished to visit David, possibly for one last time believing he owed his father a measure of courtesy for giving him life and if not always loving at least education and shelter.

David’s office is high in the Eureka Tower on South Bank and furnished in modern minimalism, its outlook is across the bay with its many moods, framing the mountains of the You Yangs to the west, while on a clear day it was possible to see down the bay to Roesbud and the Heads.

Announced by David’s secretary Alun enters to find his father turned towards a wall of glass with his hands defiantly folded across his chest. He appeared to be in no hurry to greet his son.

“Dad,” Alun quietly speaks feeling like a child who has been sent to the headmaster’s office for punishment.

It is a full minute before David comes away from the view and is seated while leaving his son stranded without welcome. Alun perceives his father appears somehow smaller, less important also he is graying and becoming portly. Possibly it is the enormous leather chair that seems in battle for supremacy with the decor. His father’s lack of response brings back a lifetime of emotional stress and Alun feels if he doesn’t speak he will like a whipped dog run from the encounter. He must say something. “Nice office,” he says.

“Not for long, I’m moving to the building I own in Toorak.”

Again silence.

“Well?” David demands.

“I thought it was about time I visited,” Alun says.

“So you have finished with the film.”

“Yes, you and mum were invited to the premiere. It is still showing at the Brighton Twin if you are interested.”

Alun is now growing confident.

David ignores his son’s offer, “I hope you are ready to find a job to suit the education I paid for.”

“I have been offered a role in Hollywood.”

“Are you accepting it?”

Alun lies, “I haven’t made any decision as yet.”

“What have you done about marrying Jillian?”

“Jillian broke off the relationship she said it was impossible to continue as she would not be returning.”

“I hear you gave you brother the money for his start-up,” David says.

“I did.”

“Now that was a waste of money, with Peter’s track record I don’t think you will ever see it again.”

“Money isn’t everything dad.”

“I wish someone would tell your mother and don’t you come running to me when your money runs out, as I do know what the studio paid you.” David warns with vitriolic satisfaction.

“I won’t I assure you.”

“Then why have you come knocking on my door?”

“I was hoping there was a measure of respect between father and son but it is obvious I was misguided.” Alun is about to depart when he plays his trump on David’s money trick, “by the way dad, I won’t be knocking on your door for money, as I won ten million in the pools.”

Arriving at the misery that had become the Hughes residence, Alun was in time to witness argument between Sylvia and his sister Dianne, while Peter was in his room packing the last of his belongings for his move to his new apartment. On entry into the house Alun was immediately drawn into the disagreement.

“What do you think Alun?” Dianne breaks away from their mother’s dogmatic opinion.

“About what?”

“Mick is selling our house and said he is going to work for the mines in West Australia.”

“It sounds like a good idea, what about the boys?”

“He said I could keep them.”

“Although this family seems to be of the opinion children are chattels, I think it would be best for everyone.”

“Alun!” Sylvia protests.

“It is true mum, I’ve just come from visiting David and he all but told me to bugger off.”

“I don’t wish to hear about David,” Sylvia spits her husband’s name like a swallowing of something sour.

“So, when is the latest addition due?” Alun enquires towards Dianne’s pregnancy.

“About two weeks.”

“Poor little bugger.”

“Alun!” Sylvia admonishes.

“And what does that mean Alun?” Dianne coolly requests.

“Another kid to grow up within the Hughes’ toxicity.”

“He will be Tanner not Hughes,” Dianne snaps.

“It amounts to the same, Alun tiffs leaving mother and daughter to their plight and goes to Peter’s room, he gently knocks and enters, “I hope I get civility here,” he says.

“Alun, yes it would be a pleasure to have some sensible conversation for a change.”

“I’ve just come from visiting dad.”

“That would be interesting, what did he have to say?”

“Bugger off I think is the translation.”

“Oh well, I suppose you heard Mick has, as you say, buggered off to West Australia and is selling the house, not that they will get anything for it as they owe more than it is worth.”

“Yes Dianne said so.”

“And I’m buggering off this afternoon to my new apartment.”

Alun sits on the bed, “how is your business adventure going?”

“You know something Alun, I think this time it will work. So far it is more than promising and I should be able to pay you back in a year or two.”

“I told you it was a gift.”

“I can’t leave you short.”

“You won’t leave me short as I won ten mill’ in the pools.”

“What! You never said.”

“No I didn’t want to start a money argument but I’ve just come from telling dad.”

“What did he say?”

“I didn’t hang about long enough for him to say anything.”

There is a tapping on the door, it is Sylvia; “Alun are you staying for dinner? Dianne is cooking.”

“No mum, if Dianne is cooking I’ll give it a miss, I’ve witnessed too many of her disasters in the past.”

“Nor I mum, I’ll get a pub meal,” Peter negates.

Sylvia is heard shuffling away along the hall, “I have been offered a part in Hollywood,” Alun says.

“Will you accept it?’

“No, although it would be long term I have other ideas towards what I would like in life, other than being hounded by the public every time I go outside my front door, or visit a bar.

“What would that be Alun?” Peter places the last of his clothing in a large case and ties the strap.

“It is a little embarrassing to admit.”

“Try me,” Peter smiles broadly, “no don’t, I think I already know.”

“Go on.”

“It would be to do your mate Tay.”

“Astute.”

“It has been obvious for some time, what does Taylor think of it all?”

“We haven’t discussed anything as yet and I’m a little novice to that lifestyle.”

“Then you better say something before he finds someone else.”

It was a week before Alun had gained enough courage to approach Taylor with his proposition, even as far as sharing his refusal of the Hollywood offer. His procrastination was mainly because of difficulty towards finding the correct words but it was becoming urgent as their little holiday at home with Jane was nearing conclusion and Taylor appeared to be making other arrangements.

The morning breakfast was done and Jane is about to go to the shops, leaving the boys to the dishes and a promise to tidy the kitchen, or at least run about the floor with a wet mop. Taylor is the dishwasher while Alun is standing ready with a dish cloth, “have you had any thought about what you will do now the film is finished?” Alun asks.

“I have an idea but nothing has come of it as yet,” Taylor says.

“I have a proposal,” Alun’s tone is flushed with anxiety.

“What would that be?” Taylor passes a soapy plate.

“You are like my mother and use too much liquid,” Alun complains.

“Is that your proposal?”

“No.”

Taylor laughs which distracts Alun and his nervous disposition makes him sulky.

“Sorry Alun – tell me your proposal.”

Alun takes a deep breath.

He releases a stuttered throaty sound.

Then at last Alun’s wishes are ready to be born.

“How would you like to live with me like Logan and Chance?”

‘Yes but you are not Logan or I Chance and it is with Alun Hughes I would wish to spend my life with, not someone living of the energy of a myth.”

“I assure you Tay it is Alun Hughes who is offering and now well aware who I am.”

“What about the American offer?”

“I turned it down, as I realized it is you I want to be with.”

“I thought you would never ask, yes Alun that is what I’ve wished for since we met while collecting you for your interview with Mr. Barrington, although I do have a question of my own.”

“Go on.”

“Are you asking from love, or from your need to keep everything comfortable without conflict?”

“Love is a funny word Tay. I can’t admit to love but if love is wishing to be with you always, if it is the heavy feeling inside my chest whenever we are apart, then I guess it is love.”

“Where would we live?”

“Do you remember that property we saw while in Rochester for the weekend?”

“I do; would we rent it?”

“No I bought it that very weekend.”

“How?”

“I won ten million in the pools, so if you say yes to be my partner both in land and the bed, it will be ours.”

“Yes Alun to both.”

“If this was the movies, we would seal it with an embrace,” Alun says.

“It isn’t the movies but come here.”

Taylor throws his eager arms around Alun neck.

“Soapy hands,” Alun laughs.

Gary’s stories are about life for gay men in Australia’s past and present. Your emails to him are the only payment he receives. Email Gary to let him know you are reading: Conder 333 at Hotmail dot Com

16,540 views