Stories

PT Prompt #237

Your character has a unique way of celebrating special occasions. What is it and how did it start?

Joshua struggles with painful memories and emotions when he is invited to his family’s Thanksgiving celebration. His boyfriend Marcus steps in to help him through what promises to be an emotional day as they both peel back another layer of their own childhood trauma and learn that they do, in fact, have many things to be thankful for.

Note: Joshua and Marcus first appeared in We Hold These Truths to be Self-Evident. Many familiar characters from that story as well as Kept Boy to Made Man will make appearances. This story will reveal hints to many character’s futures.

In The Dreamer, Mason and Robert navigate life’s trials, love, and self-discovery against the backdrop of a society not always ready to accept them. Starting in college, their connection deepens as they face family rejections, identity struggles, and career pressures. Together, they build a life marked by resilience and unwavering love. Over time, they marry, have children, and create a lasting family legacy. As they grow old, the enduring symbol of their bond—a ring forged from a meteorite—becomes a reminder to their children and grandchildren of a love that reached beyond time, built on courage, devotion, and unity.

A postgraduate realizes that being conscripted into the Greek Army doesn't necessarily have to suck...

This is a continuation of my previous story, 'On My Deathbed.' In that story, Red says "I hope I’m wrong about there being nothing else. I’m a determined old bastard, so if I can let you all know there’s something else, I’ll damn well try", and "I think this is it for me. I’ll be back if I ca..." The incomplete word being can, obviously. You probably don't need to read that first to enjoy this one, but it's short, only 1,164 words.

The Beach House brings together a group of lifelong friends for one final summer before life takes them in different directions. They've shared love, loss, and self-discovery, but now their bonds are tested as they prepare to move on—some to new cities, others to new careers. As the weekend unfolds, laughter and nostalgia give way to unresolved feelings, especially for Michael, who secretly loves Jason. Meanwhile, Jeremy faces uncertainty about his future with his boyfriend, Eric. In this last summer together, they must confront what’s next for their friendships and lives.

Successful, but romantically repressed computer programmer, Liam Bailey would've blown a homeless man for a taste of stale after spending almost a week chasing down his energetic young nephew. Instead, after his gorgeous neighbor Gabriel Morgan, sexy dad of two--who Liam would've sworn under oath and death by fire ants was straight as an arrow--turns up on his doorstep bearing sugary gifts and a few extra surprises. Suddenly "straight" makes about as much sense as a diagonal and Liam needs to decide if he should try a diagonal life, or just keep swimming so he doesn't end up getting in too deep...

Andrew and Eric, wrapped in the warmth of a sunset, share a quiet moment together. As their easy conversation shifts, Eric asks about Andrew's past, hoping to learn more. Reluctant at first, Andrew finally opens up, recounting a vulnerable and intimate story about his first love—an encounter with a closeted athlete that shaped his view on relationships and self-worth. As Andrew reveals the bittersweet lessons of his past, the bond between him and Eric deepens. Together, they reaffirm their commitment to building an honest and loving future, unburdened by the ghosts of yesterday.

When Robert returns to Vancouver for a business trip, he unexpectedly reconnects with Zach, an old high school friend now working as a barista at a popular coffee shop. What starts as casual catching up leads to deeper conversations, forcing both men to confront the missed opportunities, regrets, and unresolved emotions of their past. As Robert begins to explore his long-hidden feelings, and Zach tries to heal from personal loss, the lines between friendship and something more begin to blur. Can they seize this second chance, or will the past prove too difficult to overcome?

Doesn't everyone hate Mondays? Julian Palmer would normally agree without hesitation until one particular Monday threatens to turn his life on its head.