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

“You said you didn’t love her, anyway. What do you care what I call her?” Tucker regretted it as soon as he’d said it. “Chad…”


“Screw you! You’re not a man. I thought you were the other day.” Chad shook his head. “But you’re a spoiled, immature kid. And a jerk. A man doesn’t call a woman names.”


“Why?” Tucker’s tone was like that of a brat. Chad was right. He was arguing like a child—a thirteen-year-old, not an eighteen-year-old. Maybe he was worse, maybe ten, but he didn’t care. “Because your bitchy mother said—”


“Because you’re a filthy liar! You did something not cool, man.” Chad’s voice was angry, strong, upright—a little quiet—but he was standing tough. He was arguing like a man.


“You messed around with Roy,” Chad whispered harshly.


Chapter 40