“Closed Doors” is a slice-of-life short story that narrates the struggles of unemployed and underpaid youth in contemporary America. As such, it also features a minor gay romance subplot between the main characters.

Heston, Dorran, Cassia, and Beatriz are a group of dejected young adults from Ashen Hill. Despite being well-educated and ambitious, all struggle with the basic aspects of adulthood, such as getting by or finding someone to love.

Heston's attempts to find a job have been unsuccessful for way too long that he could bear. Disheartened and blue to the point of feeling numb, he continues living in his parents' house and trying to get his failed online business off the ground. His best friend Dorran doesn't fare much better; he has a job but has to work himself to death to make a living.

The two barely have time to hang out, and when they do, they typically discuss what’s wrong. Surprisingly, the pain helps them bond, and over time, their unapologetic friendship starts turning into something more…

But Heston is scared of being rejected, and Dorran believes that he doesn’t have much to offer as a boyfriend. Both wait for their financial situation to change, but nothing happens; doors remain closed. Will the two give their romantic feelings a chance, anyway?

“Closed Doors” is a raw, profound account of the struggles faced by millennials, who have been mockingly called 'generation jobless.' Because of it, it’s a heart-wrenching read that points out social problems by which the millennials are affected, such as the lack of industries in the zone, employers' unrealistic expectations, and humiliatingly low wages.

“Closed Doors” criticizes certain trends of the modern dating culture, as well, showing that true love isn't found on dating apps but there, where two people actually form a connection. With all this having been said, “Closed Doors” will be a good read for you if you don't mind a story where the social commentary matters most, and romance is less intense and plays second fiddle.

Table of Contents:

- Closed Doors (Full Story)