Growing up is hard enough, but it’s worse as a pacifist whose country is at war. Jim and Brian are neighbors, best friends, and high school graduates heading for college. In 1970 the Vietnam War raged, and Brian and Jim, both pacifists, worry about being drafted. To make matters worse, both men are gay and far from out. When Brian finally admits his feelings for his friend, he’s surprised and pleased Jim feels the same. Brian’s father teaches jujitsu, and the two men learn the ancient art, though neither believes in fighting. They struggle to overcome their pacifist tendencies amid racial tension and homophobia that threatens to tear their lives -- and their love -- apart. Can Brian and Jim turn fear into courage and learn to defend themselves, and each other, to create a life of love?

Fear and Courage

It surprised Brian that he’d come so quickly again. The guy swallowed every drop and smiled. He’d lifted Brian down, dressed him, and kissed him with his tongue.


Brian’s dick had never deflated, and he’d jacked again when he got home.


Now, Brian felt alone. He feared that would always be the case, but he held out hope that he and Jim could live together and be out about being gay. Hell, the man at the library was far older and had worn a wedding ring. Was he bi or gay pretending to be straight?


Regardless, Brian was proud of being black, despite its problems at times, but the gay thing was another issue. Now, he wondered if he was really his dad’s kid with them being so different.


The next day, Brian helped Jim trim his long row of bushes, then they did yard stuff at Brian’s place. He didn’t care for it, but liked being around Jim. They teased each other, but never in a hurtful way.


Chapter 30