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

“Stay close.” Like he had to tell him.


Tucker moved in the direction of the sound, softly clucking, as if summoning a housecat. Then, mimicking the black-and-white kitty’s mama’s sounds, he slowly creeped along until the movement stopped. Then so did Tucker. “See him?”


Chad nodded. Tucker felt it; he didn’t see it. He wasn’t looking at Chad. When he turned so he could, Chad nodded again, once again molded his front against Tucker’s back, his lips to Tucker’s shoulder blades, and his crotch to Tucker’s buttocks, with thin fleece fabric being all that separated them.


“Here, baby,” Tucker called and the cub actually started his way. He knew Tucker; all of the animals did, since Tucker had become as natural a part of their environment as the other creatures. “That-a boy.”


Suddenly, the cub turned and ran, frightened by a flash—not lightning—but a camera.


Chapter 81