LGBTQ+ Stories

A short story by Corey Patten 10/07/25 “The Haus is now in session,” announces the Haus Mother with a loud clack of their fan. “We acknowledge Miss Verdant Violetta as she walks the floor.”   Miss Violetta, resplendent in a purple pinstripe suit, struts to the middle of the square room, heels clicking on the rainbow marble floor and echoing throughout the chamber. She comes to a stop and stares up at the icons of the Haus.  “My thanks to the Haus for holding space for me. I w

A short story by Corey Patten 23/07/25 The air buzzes with conversation and brings energy to the dimly lit bar. Aurelia stands in the doorway, eyes flitting between each table and examining each face. Their eyes catch on a hand waving in the corner of the room, and a smile illuminates their face. Claire stands as Aurelia squeezes their way through the maze of tables and wraps them in a tight hug as they emerge. “It’s good to see you,” Aurelia says as they take their seat. “Ho

A short story by Corey Patten 06/05/25 A young man steps out of the new arrivals office, then looks toward the sprawling metropolis in front of him, large and imposing, with so many colours it gleams like a jewel against the sky. He takes a deep breath before his feet begin to move. “It can be a bit scary when you first arrive,” a voice says, causing the man’s head to whip to the side. Leaning against the wall is a tall figure with skin as dark as his own, wearing a purple pa

A short story by Corey Patten 02/17//25 “Alright everyone, welcome back to our circle of shame,” says Aurelia, the group facilitator. “As usual, let's start by everyone introducing themselves and why they’re here.” These words cause Ahmad to writhe in his seat. As if he needs a reminder every week of why he’s such an awful person. “Hi everyone, I’m Pete. I’m here because I gave someone HIV.” This is met by a chorus of, “Hi Pete.” Next to him, a woman says, “Hey everyone, I’m

A short story by Corey Patten 10/10/24 Claire wakes to the very worst, most unbearable day of every year. Her eyes flutter open and she slowly lifts herself into a sitting position. She sighs a deep and heavy sigh, one weighed down by years and years of unresolved feelings. Naomi stirs in the bed beside her, still trying to hold onto those last sips of sleep. Claire watches her for a moment with a smile before dragging herself to the bathroom to begin the morning rituals. Soo

A short story written by Corey Patten 01/02/24 Here it comes, that question that lurks like a viper, ready to strike at any moment. “Are you seeing anyone?” Robbie’s mother asks. It’s an innocent enough question despite the shame it draws forth. He quickly answers, “No.” Then because a justification is required, “None of the guys I meet get me.” A quiet pause. “It’s alright. You don’t want one of those guys whose only personality is gay,” adds Robbie’s father. Robbie doesn’t