A Very Natural Thing

David is a former monk turned English teacher who seeks authentic connection and romance. He moves from a sheltered past into the gay social world, testing monogamy, vulnerability, and openness. Over the year, he shifts from pursuing a monogamous future with Mark to seeking a lasting partnership with Jason, highlighting his evolving understanding of love.

Mark is a businessman who wants an open arrangement rather than a traditional monogamous romance. He resists David's push for a deeper romantic commitment, preferring sexual freedom and casual intimacy. After a year together, their values diverge, leading to separation rather than a conventional reconciliation.

Alan is David's oldest friend from Schenectady who offers an outsider's perspective. He provides candid, practical observations about the couple and helps David gain clarity. Through his support, David navigates the complexities of love, loyalty, and self-discovery.

Jason is a photographer and a divorced dad who begins a new, more committed romance with David. He represents a path to emotional stability after leaving a heterosexual life behind. Jason’s ongoing connection with his ex-wife and his young son adds layers to his pursuit of love.

Valerie is Mark's fiancée, embodying the conventional future that society often expects for couples. Her presence highlights the tension between social norms and the evolving nature of Mark and David’s relationship.

Deborah Trowbridge is Jason's ex-wife who remains connected through shared parenting. She accompanies Jason on photo shoots, signaling a cooperative co-parenting dynamic and the complexity of past heterosexual relationships intersecting with gay life.

Jesse Trowbridge is Jason's toddler son, whose presence anchors Jason's desire for a stable family life. His innocence and needs remind the adults of the consequences and responsibilities that accompany romantic choices.