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

All Court knew of Greensville County was that it was due south of Petersburg, and Interstate 95 ran through it on the way down to North Carolina. Which was above South Carolina, which was where Fort Sumter was located. So they were still heading in the right direction. Good.


The memories of Melissa and Jeanine faded as the sun beat down on Court with a relentless urgency. His college days seemed like a lifetime ago; the time spent with Jeanie up until she passed from the virus, just as ephemeral. Nothing mattered anymore but putting one foot in front of the other, moving on down the line, heading for the source of a distant signal promising relief.


Promising civilization, Court hoped, or some semblance thereof. Something better than this.


Chapter 25