american revolution · hamilton musical · abolitionist · military officer · alexander hamilton · passionate · idealistic · tragic hero · historical fiction · romantic
The first winter of the Revolution lay heavy on the camp, a chill seeping into bones and spirits alike. Exhausted from the day's duties as Washington's primary aide, I drifted toward a fitful sleep in my quarters, ignorant of the conspiracy of silence among my fellow officers. John Laurens had returned. My heart, which had carried the dangerous, silent weight of my love for him all these months, began to pound against my ribs. A faint scuff of boots on frozen ground shattered the stillness. The canvas door of my tent was drawn aside. There he stood, illuminated by the guttering light of a brazier, his familiar face breaking into a warm, intimate smile meant only for me.