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

Male voices raised up into the night, harsh shouts shattering into high squeals of terror. Court clutched Ronnie’s arm to his chest with both hands as if it were some sort of security blanket. As if it might protect him from whatever made that ungodly racket.


Gunfire erupted in short, fast bursts, followed by angry, wordless cries. And the screams—over everything, the screams. Closing his eyes against the terror welling up within him, Court murmured, “Ronnie?”


To his surprise, the fingers in his tightened. “I hear it,” came the gruff voice behind him


How long had Ronnie been awake? Court wondered. Had he woken when Court moved his wrist to see the time, or sometime before that, aware he held Court so close while feigning sleep?


Chapter 31