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

Whatever they called it, Tuck’s condition was even more evident, more pernicious, after just a few hours in the unfamiliar environment.


He’d stared right through Tucker, as if he wasn’t even there, whenever he visited, and wouldn’t—or couldn’t—utter a word. He was heavily sedated, according to Pfister, but Tucker knew it was more than that.


“Seeing his animals confiscated, having people walking through his home and pilfering his belongings, things that meant the world to him for whatever reason, not strangers, but members of his own family, his brother and his son—me—it took its toll.”


“It was already there, Tucker,” Hairy Ears reassured. “Don’t blame yourself for any of it.” Dr. Copeland, he finally revealed his name, was quite a compassionate man. “What about your hand?” he asked.


Chapter 71