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

“There’s got to be a key around here somewhere.” Ronnie glanced around, as if he might just happen to find the key resting on the floor. Of course, it wasn’t there. “Maybe a paperclip, or something we can jimmy it open with. Take a look around.”


Court sighed—he thought it was a fruitless exercise, and they could bunk down in the hallway or out in the reception area just as easily—but having a door shut against the world outside would be a nice change of pace. Keep them out of harm’s way, for a change. And afford them a little privacy, for once. Who knew? Maybe if they could get the door open, they might finally get to put the condom to good use. Court touched his back pocket to assure himself the little rubber ring was still there.


Heading back towards the reception desk, Ronnie called out, “Adam? Bree? You guys see any keys lying around up there?”


Chapter 74