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

An eternity seemed to pass before a shadow darkened the open tent flap. Court tensed, little good it would do him. How could he hope to fight off anything? He was unarmed—he held an empty Thermos in his hands, and his radio was within reach, but neither of those would serve as much of a weapon. Under his breath, he muttered, “Damn it the hell.”


“What are you bitching about now?” It was Ronnie’s voice. The shadow took shape as Ronnie leaned into the tent, bringing with him a rush of cool air.


Relief coursed through Court, but anger followed hard on its heels. “Where’s Bree?”


“Hello to you, too.” Ronnie tossed something into Court’s lap. “Don’t say I never gave you anything.”


Court looked down at the handful of Slim Jims Ronnie had given him. His mouth salivated at the thought of meat—maybe not fresh, but something other than soup or beans. His hands shook as he tore into the first package. “Where’d you find these?”


Chapter 48