Maybe In Another Life

"Will you wait for me?"
"No matter how long it takes, I'll always wait for you."

This narrative is inspired by a true event from 1835 in the United Kingdom, where two men were arrested and convicted under the 1533 Buggery Act for sodomy, ultimately receiving the death penalty. Historical records indicate that between 1810 and 1835, 46 individuals were hanged for sodomy, while 32 others faced death sentences. An additional 716 were either imprisoned or subjected to the pillory, which saw its use limited after 1816.

The story transports us back to 1834 in London, England, where same-sex relationships were deemed sinful and could lead to severe punishments, including life imprisonment or execution.

In this tale, we meet Robert, a man in his early 30s residing in Deptford, London. Employed as a groom for royal horses, he dedicated most of his time to the royal family. At 28, Robert's family discovered his attraction to men, compelling him to marry Eleanor, a woman they thought would set him on the "right" path. Following their union, the pressure mounted for them to have a child, but Robert sought to minimize his time at home to escape his responsibilities and the confines of his 'family.'

On the other side of this story is James, a young man in his mid-20s. He faced a tragic fate at just 14 when his father discovered him kissing another man, which led to his disownment. Now homeless, he earned his living as a servant for the same royal family. James lived with the other servants, all provided with accommodations just outside the palace, ensuring they were never late for their duties.

This story is totally fictional and has nothing to do with any real life incidents.
This is my own, originally written work/story.