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

“Well…Okay,” Mrs. C. said with a smile. “That’s more like it. Let’s do it again.”


With Tucker’s hand on his back, Chad sang out loud, over and over again. They even ran the whole song—with harmony—all the way through, just the two of them.


“Maybe we should perform it that way,” Mrs. C. said.


“Uh…no way,” Chad said, terror in his eyes. When those eyes met Tucker’s, the look said something else. Let go of me. Out loud, he said, “I have to go. My dad is picking me up on his way home from work—at 3.”


“Tucker has track rehearsal, anyway,” Mrs. C said, well aware of her word choice error, because she smiled. “We don’t need much more practice if we can do it like that every time.” She said her goodbyes and went back into the little storage room in the rear of the choir room, leaving Chad and Tucker almost alone yet again.


“I’m sorry. For…everything,” Tucker said, his hands in the air. He truly meant it.


Chapter 41