Shay Rogers has avoided going back home to Alabama because he fears running into his high school lover, Dwayne Sayles. Because of Shay’s reputation as an All-American straight stud, he tried to keep his love for Dwayne secret. Shay’s fear of his friends and family finding out about him ultimately led to his breaking up with Dwayne. However, when the invitation to his fifteen year high school reunion arrives, Shay’s friend convinces him to go, with her as his fictitious girlfriend. Within moments of meeting again, the long-dormant feelings between Shay and Dwayne are rekindled, but so are Shay’s fears. Is Shay finally ready to embrace the chance of happiness by living openly with Dwayne, or will his need to hide the truth about himself win out yet again?

Class of '03

After a time Dwayne came trotting toward the car. He looked excited.


“What did Mr. Higgins want?” Lilly asked.


“The English Department wants us to do some of the scenes from Midsummer Night’s Dream for the school in an assembly. They want to see if we can get the kids interested enough to come see the whole play. Mr. Higgins wants me to do the introduction.”


“One of the scenes he’s picked is with you and Lysander. So you’ll be in it, too. We’ll do it in full costume the morning of the first performance.”


On the way home, Lilly and Dwayne talked excitedly about the assembly, and which scenes would be included. Shay listened, feeling a bit left out. Part of him wished he’d been able to try out for the show. But another part was glad he wasn’t involved because of the situation he and Dwayne were currently in.


When they pulled up in front of Dwayne’s house, Dwayne asked what had become his usual question. “Are you coming in?”


Chapter 12