It all started in 2025, when the whole world collapsed. Multiple deadly diseases infected over three quarters of the population. That’s when the military stepped in and promoted Commander Decker to rule temporarily, but he abused his power and put the world under his command. He soon put out a decree saying that all people within a certain age group must live in the same Vandoms (housing units). Since then, the world has never been the same. However, there was a way to get around the decree. Chapter 1

“On this day, of August 15, 2025, all citizens must be chipped, given vaccines to all deadly viruses, and housed into Vandoms according to age group. This shall be HOUSE TAB. 1. The groups shall be as written: Birth to 10yrs old shall live with the mother and father that birth them. Then they will live within 10yrs of their age such as: 11 to 20, 21 to 30, etc. HOUSE TAB. 2. Shall be that if anyone defies these rules or decides to leave may declare to be a ‘Runaway’ and leave. But in doing so, they may never return and will not receive any provisions or healthcare. To declare themselves a Runaway, they must be 16 years of age, no exceptions. They shall live on the other side of the of the Saver Walls that will be guarded day and night. If anyone inside the Saver Walls encounters a Runaway inside the walls, and tells no one, they shall be thrown out. That is all.”

That was the “Commander’s” speech. God, I hate that guy. Hate these viruses. Ugh. So, that’s how it’s gonna be? Either follow him or be on our own? To be honest, I’d rather be on my own. Hell, I’m 15, I can cook, shoot a gun, you name it. How could it be so bad? I thought to myself. Another thing, if that guy could take over the world when it was that weak, what else could go crazy? “Max, dinner is ready!” Lucas yelled, seeming disappointed. I guess he saw the speech too. Looking over at my clock, it said 7:17 pm. “I’m coming, I’m coming!” I replied, getting up. “Ack!” I yelped silently. My back is still out of place from that fight. “Where’s my back brace?” I mumbled to myself. Last place I had it was somewhere in here. Or was it in the bathroom? Eh, I’ll be fine.

I brace myself for another jolt of pain as I roll over out of bed. Daniel got me pretty good, I’ll admit. Honestly, I shouldn’t have fought him for 20 bucks…. Definitely was not worth it. I grab my shorts and t-shirt and start to head down the stairs when Zander grabs my arm.

“What are you doing out of bed, dum. ba. ss??? You’re supposed to be resting.” He says, being overprotective as usual.

(a "gay love story" i'm working on)