Beneath a Heart of Darkness

Eighteen months later

A lone figure climbed the wide sweeping steps of the imposing white building, his destination, the courthouse, where he eagerly anticipated his reunion with the men who had transformed his life. He’d changed a lot since that fateful day in the Pi Tau basement. Gone were his outdated horn-rimmed glasses, replaced with a simple black frame that complimented his delicate features. His pale-blue eyes still appeared huge behind his black-rimmed spectacles, but the timid countenance that once emanated from them had vanished. In its place, an air of confidence radiated from within, a halo of light illuminating the face of the proud man who had finally found his niche in life. Having broken away from the tyrannical cycle of abuse he’d suffered at the hands of his father and grandfather, he’d risen to dizzying heights, and much to his surprise, he’d become a popular student among his peers. For the first time in his life, he was socially accepted, and he knew a lot of it had to do with Dennis and Tom. His two friends, had, in their own way, displayed levels of courage far beyond the realms of most men, and by example, their fortitude had given him the strength to break free from the shackles that bound him, releasing him into the wilds of the unknown. It hadn’t been easy, the years of emotional isolation had left invisible scars, making it difficult for him to feel at ease in the company of others. But little by little, he’d conquered his fears. Harold Horshack was a new man, and one day, he would prove his worth by leaving an indelible mark on the world.

When he reached the pillared entrance to the courthouse, Harold approached the two men waiting at the top. The three friends exchanged a silent hello, their non-verbal communication saying more than words could ever express. During the countless hours spent together, preparing Tom’s case, their friendship had solidified, and they were forever bound by the unbreakable bond of brotherhood. From the outside, it was an unusual association, but for each man, there was a mutual respect, and their solidarity and admiration bound them together. Sodalitas ante omnia. Brotherhood above all else. It was their motto for life.

From below, Jorge and Lupita appeared, their ascent of the steps impeded by Lupita’s heavily pregnant belly. A loving smile tilted Booker’s lips. Through all his adversity, Jorge had managed to find a special someone to give him the love and attention he so desperately craved, and although surprised he had chosen a woman, the dark-haired officer’s happiness was genuine. The young couple deserved a life free from the abuse that had ultimately brought them together, and he hoped their relationship would work, despite their tender years. Theirs was a story not dissimilar to his and Tom’s, and his heart dipped with emotion. Tom was his everything, and turning toward his lover, he placed a tender kiss on his lips. “Have I told you today how much I love you?”

Adoration shone from Tom’s eyes, and taking hold of Booker’s hand, he gently squeezed his fingers. “You tell me every day.”

Love softened the lines around Booker’s eyes. “That’s ‘cause it’s true.”

Wrapping his arms around Booker’s waist, Tom leaned against his lover’s muscular body. The day had come when he would finally face his attackers in court, and despite his nerves, he was ready. His life had taken several twists and turns during the past eighteen months, but after making the decision to become a rape crisis counselor, he had enrolled in college and was laboring his way through a four-year bachelor degree in social work. He’d taken to college like a duck to water, and although intellectually demanding, he was enjoying the challenge. In typical Booker fashion, the dark-haired officer had offered to support him during his study, but Tom had refused, preferring to take on a part-time job at the local bowling alley. That way, he could at least pretend he was contributing to the household expenses. His pay wasn’t much, but his pride wouldn’t have it any other way. Booker had sacrificed so much for him, and he wanted to give something in return, so once again, he could feel like his equal.

As Jorge and Lupita approached, Booker pressed his lips against Tom’s ear. “Ready, baby?”

Lifting his head, Tom gifted his lover with a smile. From beneath a heart of darkness, a light now shone, the luminous path leading him toward his salvation. Whatever happened, he was confident he would walk from the trial with his head held high, free in the knowledge his story had been told.

With a nod of his head, he turned, and with his four friends by his side, he walked the last few steps of the long road toward justice.

Finis

NOTE: NEW STORY COMING SOON!