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

“Got another chicken,” Bree said. An impish grin flickered across her face. “So see, we were both getting some cock this afternoon.”


Court felt his face burn with embarrassment. “We didn’t—I mean…it’s none of your business!”


She raised an eyebrow, amused. “Someone’s a bit touchy.”


“Just go away!” Court cried. He looked at Ronnie for back-up, but his friend was stepping into a pair of fresh underwear and didn’t seem the least bit bothered that Bree stood nearby, watching. “Ronnie…”


“You better go.” Ronnie snapped the briefs into place and gave Bree a sardonic smirk. “He doesn’t want you seeing his penis.”


Court whirled on his friend. “Hey!”


“I don’t see what the big deal is,” Bree muttered. “They all look basically the same.” But she turned and disappeared back into the woods, heading for their camp and leaving the two men alone on the shore to get dressed.


Chapter 60