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 rolled over then. He wrestled Tucker over, so they exchanged positions. Chad laid his head against Tucker’s shoulder, then lifted it toward a noise in the tree. Tucker twisted, to follow Chad’s gaze. Sam’s feathers were fluffed out and raised, as if he was about to pounce.


“I’m okay, Sam,” Tucker said. “I promise.”


“I love him,” Chad said. He faced Tucker again. “I do. You don’t have to say it back, but I just—”


Tucker shushed him with a kiss. “I love you, too, Chad.” It felt nice to say it, but there was also fear. “I’m still afraid.”


“I’ll protect you and I’ll do my best to take that away…your anxiety…Says the scaredy-cat.”


“Scaredy-cat! Uh-uh, Chad. No way. You scaled a sixty-foot wall to get in here!”


“It’s sixty now?” Chad asked with a smirk.


“You’re my white knight who climbed a castle wall and fought back a dragon, all to get to me.”


“A lizard. And it wasn’t a fight.”


Chapter 95