In the near future, a deadly flu-like virus decimates the Earth's population. The few who remain struggle to survive without electricity, fresh food, or any other amenities they once took for granted. John “Court” Courtland and his best friend Ronnie Densch are two such survivors. Court has never known a time when Ronnie wasn't in his life. They grew up together. But it's only as they begin to move forward in the post-apocalyptic chaos of Virginia that Court realizes he's in love with Ronnie. Always has been, and always will be, even if he never lets himself admit it out loud. Ronnie is a private, inscrutable man who lets no one close to him except Court. With winter coming on, Ronnie wants to move farther south to warmer weather, and Court follows without question. Along the way, they're joined by other survivors, a ragtag bunch all looking for guidance. As they travel, they hear faint radio signals from Fort Sumter, South Carolina, where a rebuild effort is underway. The world Court once knew has changed, leaving behind a dangerous and lawless landscape. But come whatever storms, he knows he can weather them with Ronnie by his side. Will Sumter turn out to be everything Court hopes for and more? And will he find the courage to tell Ronnie how he really feels before it’s too late?

Come Whatever Storms

Court looked from the man to Ronnie. “What’s this?”


“Don’t know,” Ronnie admitted. “What’s his name again?”


Court couldn’t remember. By now the man was close enough to hear them, though, and he stopped waving to extend a hand in greeting. “Joseph Dziedzic. Most folks call me Dizzy. I’ve been bringing up the rear all day. You have any idea how far we’re strung out?”


Ronnie took the offered hand in a firm shake. As soon as he released it, Court caught the hand in his own. Despite the man’s camouflage clothing and hardcore camping gear, the name Dizzydidn’t exactly instill Court with confidence. “This is the last of them, isn’t it?”


Dizzy looked over his shoulder, and Court noticed the way his gaze seemed to dwell on the woods for a long moment before he turned towards them again. “Guess it is, now. You know we’re being followed?”


Chapter 21