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

Michelle smiled. “Your dad is such a great kisser. I can’t get enough of him. He’s gotten under my skin in such an excellent way.” She gave him a long kiss. “Tom, I can’t wait. We should show them now.”


Dad bellowed a laugh. “Yeah, I want to see their faces.”


Dad led them to their own room, with Michelle bringing up the rear. Brian’s mouth fell open and his eyes went wide at two new dressers and a double-sized bed, squeezed into the not-very-large room.


“Merry Christmas, my sons. Michelle helped me pick it all out, and the bedspread, new sheets, and pillows are from her.”


Brian blurted, “Thank you, Dad.” He jumped into his arms and they hugged.


Jim snuggled into Michelle. “Thank you! I…uh, well—”


“My pleasure. I hated to see you men fit into a twin-sized bed, and of course, with a new bed, you needed new furniture.” She laughed.


Dad kissed her. “Just like a woman to make a man spend money.”


Chapter 81