No filter whatsoever.
She keeps going, totally unfazed by the unimpressed glare from her boyfriend: “This new look really suits you! What is it,French fashion influence? Or is there some lucky girl helping you with your wardrobe?”
She watches me with that affectionate, slightly cheeky smile, resting her chin in her hand. And for a split second, I want to tell her the truth. That there is no girl. That I’m gay.
That this, the part of me I couldn’t explain, that I was too afraid to say out loud, is the real reason I left Maddie without warning.
But I can’t.
Not yet.
Not tonight.
I don’t want to ruin this moment, this reunion that feels so fragile and precious.
And even though everyone’s been lovely, I’m still the newcomer at this table. Strangers, for now.
But I’ll be in London all summer. There’ll be time.
Time for honesty.
Time for Anne and me to find a quiet moment, just the two of us.
And when it comes, I’ll tell her everything.
So for now, I just smile awkwardly, shake my head, and say nothing.
Right then, Noah, seated on my other side, nudges me gently with his elbow and asks if I’m enjoying myself.
I’m quietly grateful for the distraction and turn the conversation his way, asking about his job.
He and Jamie, his boyfriend, are clearly head over heels for each other.
They keep leaning in, exchanging quiet words and small, affectionate touches, those soft looks that say everything without needing to speak.
Watching them makes my chest ache in the best possible way.
They were warm and welcoming from the moment I arrived, andthe way they love each other, freely, without hesitation, fills me with admiration. And maybe a little hope.
Maybe one day I’ll find that, too.
Someone who sees me. Supports me.
Someone who isn’t afraid to show the world that I’m theirs.
Someone who looks at me like I’m the most precious thing they’ve ever held.
Anne and Francis are lovely together as well, even though he keeps throwing me these slightly possessive glances.
I think he’s a bit jealous. Which honestly makes me laugh.
If only he knew...Anne was never in any danger with me.
Not even for a second.
Remi, though… that’s a different story.
Strangely enough, he never seems to stop watching me.
