Rick and Tony, both born in the early 1970s, are quintessential Gen X daddies. They exude the rugged charm and self-assuredness that only comes from experience and a refusal to conform to societal expectations. Both men are unapologetically themselves, embracing their graying hair and naturally burly physiques with pride.

Rick, a retired mechanic turned custom motorcycle builder, has a salt-and-pepper beard that matches his thick chest hair. His hands are calloused, and his arms are tattooed with a mix of old-school designs and sentimental pieces marking major life events. Though he has a gruff exterior, he’s the more laid-back of the two, often cracking sarcastic jokes and insisting on letting things “go with the flow.” Rick has a penchant for leather jackets, flannel shirts, and vintage rock ‘n’ roll tees, reflecting his love for music and the open road.

Tony, on the other hand, is a high school history teacher who moonlights as a writer. He’s a bear of a man with broad shoulders and a deep, booming laugh. His thick, dark beard has just started to turn gray, and he’s meticulous about keeping it groomed. Tony’s intellectual side is immediately apparent; he’s a walking encyclopedia of pop culture, queer history, and trivia. He’s known for his empathy and wit, traits that make him a natural mentor to his students and a grounding force in any relationship.

The two met in the late ’90s at a queer bar in Portland, back when being openly gay carried more risks. Their connection was instant, born out of shared values and a shared defiance of societal norms. Over the years, they’ve built a life together rooted in mutual respect and a deep love for their community.

Rick and Tony’s home is a cozy cabin in the Pacific Northwest, decorated with vintage finds and items they’ve collected during their travels. They host regular gatherings for their “found family,” cooking hearty meals and sipping craft beers by the fireplace. Their dynamic is one of playful banter, steady affection, and an unshakable partnership.