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

“Nothing.” He was thinking about Roy, but also Chad’s mother, about how she had called the authorities as retribution, because Chad threw his and Tucker’s relationship in her face, and how much of what followed, the devastating losses, and not just of hands, may have been avoided. Tucker broke free from damned, militant, always-fighting-for homosexual-rights Chad. Tucker pulled free. “Come on. The animals need us.”


Chad hugged him again, though. “I’m so glad you’re okay.”


“Back off,” Tucker snarled. “I’m far from okay.”


“Oh.” There was hurt on Chad’s face. “Sorry,” he said. “I’m just happy to see you. I hope it’s nothing that—”


Tucker didn’t wait to hear the rest of the statement. He took off with both crates, one in each claw. “We’re under the gun, here. Let’s get a move on.”


“Oh. Sure. We’ll catch up after.”


“No. There is no after. After…you leave.”


Chapter 72