Three young men from very different homes, just coming into their own sexuality, bond at a time when information about homosexuality is scarce to the average teen. Their strong connection cannot survive high school and heartache, however, and their triangle collapses under the weight of prejudice and a need to escape.<br><br>Ten years later, Tucker is bitter and hurt by all the tragedy in his life since those long ago happier days. Reclusive, somewhat animalistic, and completely content to stay that way, he’s brought up short by an unexpected confrontation with the past and feelings that won't stay buried.

Fur, Feathers, and Claws

“I’d been feeling like trying stuff I didn’t know was stuff.”


“What?” Chad looked up from the book.


“Did you? Like…try the…stuff? Alone. Is it stuff you can try all by your—”


“Stop.” Tucker pursed his lips. “I’ll wait for your opinion before I answer that. Here’s a magazine you might like.”


“Better. Ya got to hide ‘em real good, dig?” Tucker warned. “Some of the stuff it says in the book…The magazine photos…Religious people and other people wouldn’t be down with it all. They’ll think it’s, like, bad stuff. Your mom might flip her lid.” Tucker took the book back. “Maybe I shouldn’t—”


“I want to see it.” Chad pried it from Tucker’s hand. “I’ll keep it safe. I, like, don’t want my mom to ape, either. She’s mad half the time as it is. She’ll never…” Chad got really sad then. “Never mind. I really better jet.”


Chapter 27