Young Willow was born in the Iron Settlement, one of several save zones built after the world as we know it was destroyed by war. He’s been pining after someone, a man who will finally acknowledge having feelings for Willow.<br><br>Handsome Jay is known as a traveler, a man familiar with all the dangers outside the safety of the settlements. This time, however, Jay’s battle is to overcome the injury that left him walking with a limp, which alienated him from people in the settlements.<br><br>Will Jay and Willow be able to move from a steady friendship to budding romance while they explore the dangerous ruins from before the end times? How will Jay react when Willow presents him with a rare gift? Can Willow learn to barter with Jay and earn the love he craves?

Barter System

Jay opens the small jar and dips his finger into the thick amber substance. He licks his finger tentatively, and his eyes get bigger and then close with pleasure. He sucks the length of his finger into his mouth, past full lips, and Willow has to take a drink of water, his throat suddenly feeling dry and his skin too hot under his clothing.


“You have to taste this!” Jay doesn’t offer the jar, though. He dips his own finger in the honey again and offers that to Willow, his face showing excitement and pleasure, unaware the effect he’s having on Willow.


“Thanks,” Willow says, his voice rough as he takes Jay’s hand and places Jay’s finger in his mouth, sucking and licking off the sticky, sweet honey. He makes eye contact with Jay as his tongue flicks over the ridge of an old scar, and he can see the heat in Jay’s eyes, can see him fighting to control himself in the tight set of his mouth.


Chapter 3