Magnet & steel.

Titles song: Magnet & steel by Walter Egan

Kevin, missing his Portland sexual exploits and trying out his new appearance, cruises the local mall and gets some unexpected attention.

One Friday night, nothing to do, walks over to the mall. Crosses paths in the mall with a very handsome (African-American) man who makes eye contact but keeps walking. Kevin’s never known a black person. A cruising dance ensues across the mall in different stores, then the man walks out of the mall with just a slight parting glance. Kevin follows slowly, and sees the man leaning up against a car, smoking and eyeing him with a steely stare. Stands there for a minute looking back, then gets scared and goes back into the mall, heads home. 

While going through the week, keeps flashing back to the man. 

Friday comes again, and Kevin’s back at the mall, walking and looking for him. They finally make contact and sparks fly. The world tilts on its axis, music swells, everything seems changed, beyond any reason. Kevin falls suddenly in love.

He introduces Ron to his creative cave hidden in the church, they share a kiss but no more. Kevin drives himself home, staring at Ron in the rearview mirror. He smiles, turns on the radio and sings along to Yes, I’m ready by Teri Desario & KC.

Kevin and Ron begin a torrid affair, scandalous in this environment because of the age difference, 25 and 17, and the race issue in this conservative town. Ron reveals that he is not gay and is fearful of losing his job. Kevin persists, convinced that they are destined to be together.

Ron’s backstory is revealed, east coast orphan, former football prospect, recently out of the military, adrift.

Tensions mount with Kevin’s staying out late.

They try going to one of the local parties with Kevin’s theater friends, but are frustrated by the negative reactions. They are on a lifeboat together, which suits both of them fine, for now.

Closing song: Magnet & Steel by Billie Eilish

EPISODE 05 SOUNDTRACK