In the years after the Final War, the Council of Women decide to secede from men. They create a world of their own away from men, where they can raise their children without fear. Once a year men may visit briefly to procreate. Boys are sent to the Land of Men when they reach puberty. At eleven, Bergman was sent across the sea and placed with his fathers, Spencer and Harris. Years later, he meets Hastings at the Beach Festival, an annual event for young men. It’s love at first sight for Bergman. But the course of true love never runs smoothly. In time Hastings desires a son, a subject Bergman paid little thought to. Yet their son Taylor brings great joy to their lives. Life is further complicated when Hastings is chosen to travel to the Land of Women to father children. He wants to accept, but Bergman can’t understand why he would consider going. Isn’t he happy with what he already has? If he goes, what will that do to their relationship? To their future? Is this a betrayal, or is it something else?

In the Land of Men

“Good morning, Taylor,” I said, smiling fit to burst.


Such manners from such a beautiful boy brought tears to my eyes, which I immediately blinked back.


“I’m your father. My name is Bergman. And this,” I said taking Hastings’ hand, “is also your father, Hastings.”


I stood up and Hastings and I took one hand each and led Taylor outside.


“I hope you don’t mind walking,” said Hastings. “We left the horse at home today, but you can ride him later if you like. Do you like horses?”


“I don’t really know, sir. I’ve only seen drawings.”


Everything Taylor said made me smile. He was so innocent, so sweet. More polite than I’d ever been, although I had tried hard to make a good first impression. I think I’d been a much shyer boy.


At about the halfway mark on our journey home, Taylor began to drag his feet.


“Are you okay, little man?” asked Hastings. “Your legs hurting?”


Chapter 12