Title: Something like thunder
Description: This isn't a coming out story. Nor is it the tale of a lonely heart seeking companionship. This is about survival. My name is Nathaniel Courtney and I'm a survivor. Instead of letting the cruelty of others wear me down, I grew strong. I didn't allow hard truths (secrets of where I come from) challenge my identity. I even weathered the softer, more subtle hardships of the heart. Love is a Trojan horse, sneaking through the gates, forcing you to let down your guard, and leaving you ransacked and vulnerable. I emerged from that war not unscathed but as a new man. The only mistake I ever made was letting the right guy get away. Now I've got one more chance. I've been fighting my whole life, and this is the final battle, because if I fail now ... I won't. You'll see. Just sit down and listen to my story, Kelly Phillips, and when I'm done, please don't walk away. When I'm finally through, take this weary solider into your arms so we can find peace together.
Subjects: Gay men, Fiction