“I’m not used to it,” he said. “Being happy without a plan for it.”
Emily laughed. “That’s the best kind, Ben. When do I get to meet him?”
Bennett swallowed. “Soon. I’m thinking maybe two weeks?”
Emily grinned. “I’ll clear my schedule. And Ben? I’m proud of you.”
Bennett’s throat tightened. “I haven’t told Mom yet.”
Emily’s expression softened. “You will. When you’re ready. There’s no rush.”
“I know,” Bennett said. “But I want to. I don’t want to hide this.”
“Then don’t,” Emily said gently. “She’ll come around. She loves you.”
After the call ended, Bennett sat in the quiet of his apartment for a long time. The conversation had been easier than he’d expected. Emily’s acceptance had been immediate, uncomplicated.
He picked up his phone and texted Jasper.
Bennett:
Told my sister.
The response came quickly.
Jasper:
How did it go?
Bennett:
Better than expected. She wants to meet you.
Jasper:
I’d like that.
Bennett stared at the screen, then added:
Bennett:
Thank you.
Jasper:
For what?
Bennett:
For being patient. For not being a secret.
Jasper:
You’re worth the wait.
Bennett set the phone down and exhaled slowly. The fear he’d been carrying for weeks had loosened, just a little. Not gone, but manageable.
He was learning.
