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

The gasoline from Roy’s car had soaked the sleeve. “Dad! Get back,” Tucker yelled, but Tuck defiantly stood his ground. “Dad!”


Tuck picked up a lawn chair: one of the metal kind with the webbing, and threw it at the barrel. The thing must have been unsteady already. It toppled over, setting the floor of the porch ablaze.


Roy sprinted around the corner, with Laddie and Molly racing behind him. “There are, like, five hoses, man. And none of them are connected to anything,” Roy said. “Where the fuck’s the faucet?”


“Forget it. Go next door and call the fire department.”


Chapter 69