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

Willow hesitates. “You could walk me home.”


He doesn’t want to seem too needy. They’ve been friends for a long time, but today was their first real date. He finds himself very reluctant to part ways with Jay after having such an amazing day.


“No one’s been bothering you when you’re alone, have they?” Jay asks, looking instantly ready for action.


Willow puts his hands on Jay’s chest to calm him. “No, no, I’m not afraid to be alone. I just thought maybe you could come have a nightcap,”


Jay grins, features relaxing. “Well, I guess that depends what you have to drink.”


“More bartering? Is my company not enough of a lure?”


Jay uses Willows hand on his chest to tug him forward until they’re in each other’s space, sharing breath, close enough he can feel every rise of Jay’s chest.


Chapter 8