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

Chad put on his shoes without his socks. The way he kept his hand on the shoe, after it was tied, Tucker got the impression the idea of shoes without socks was frowned upon in the Burke household. “I’m going to take off.” Chad stuck his socks in his pocket, and then rubbed one eye with the back of his hand before putting his glasses back on. He reached for the door handle. “Bye.”


“Bye,” Tucker said. He never turned around until he was sure Chad was around the corner, out of sight. He didn’t cry until then, either.


Tucker didn’t sleep much that night, mostly lying awake next to Laddie, in the back of the van. He thought about driving to Chad’s house a million times, but he knew he wasn’t welcome there, and feared it would just cause more trouble—or was he still just being stubborn? Every time he heard a sound outside, he thought it was Chad coming back. It wasn’t. Chad was, apparently, stubborn as well.


Chapter 66