As we dive deeper into our discussion, the possibilities stretch before us like a vast expanse of uncharted territory, filled with both trepidation and hope. The more we talk, the lighter the burden feels, shifting from something that weighs heavily on us to something we can manage together.
“I want to focus on the positives—who we are, what we love,” Leo suggests, a fervent determination radiating from him as he looks at me, the passion in his eyes igniting the flickering flame of hope within me.
“Exactly,” I reply, a smile breaking through the apprehension. “Let’s highlight the truth of our relationship. The love, the connection—everything we’ve faced and fought for. I want people to see how powerful that can be.”
“Then we need to acknowledge the challenges too,” he adds, his tone serious. “There’s a lot of fear surrounding coming out, and we want to encourage others to embrace their truths too.”
I nod, feeling the depth of his words resonating within me. “We can share our journey—the struggles and the triumphs—show people they’re not alone.”
As we brainstorm, a rush of exhilaration flows through me, the prospect of what we’re discussing filling me with a warm glow. The initial fear starts to slip away, replaced by a fierce desire to own our truth.
“Okay,” Leo continues, leaning forward slightly, “let’s map out a timeline. We’ll need to feel secure about our decision before we make any announcements.”
“Absolutely. I want to be prepared,” I say, excitement brewing within me as I realize how far we’ve come in such a short time. “Perhaps we can set a date for when we want to go public—something symbolic, like an event or a game?”
His expression brightens as he catches the idea. “What about the championship game? We can make a statement during the big finale!”
“Perfect!” I exclaim, the thought igniting a spark within me. “That’s a stage we can use to showcase our love—our truth—before everyone.”
With every word, the bond between us feels stronger, pulsing with anticipation as we hold on to this renewed energy. I find myself drawn closer to him, the warmth of his presence anchoring me amid the chaos.
“Leo,” I murmur, caught in the intensity of the moment, “thank you for being willing to step into this with me. It means the world.”
He smiles softly, a tender expression lighting up his features as he brushes a stray hair from my face. “We’ve fought too hard for this. You deserve to be seen for who you really are. We both do.”
With those words hanging in the air between us, the room feels charged with possibilities—a world brimming with hope and acceptance. Together, we will face whatever challenges await us, and I know that with him by my side, we’ll emerge from this unscathed, standing tall against the tide.
As we finish mapping out our plan, a sense of tranquility washes over me, and for the first time in weeks, I feel lighter, unburdened by the weight of secrecy. With the storm behind us and the horizon unfolding ahead, I take a deep breath, ready to step boldly into the light—together.
In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of our dreams and the depth of our connection, I know that we will write our own story—one filled with honesty, love, and resilience.
Chapter 30
Leo
I know what it feels like to worry about disappointing people that you care about, but I’ve never had a family to worry about disappointing.
Sitting with Nash in his living room, he hovers over his mom’s name in his phone. After talking with Talia more, we decided we needed to let Nash’s family know about us. The last thing they need is to find out their son is gay and in love from a social media post.
Talia holds Nash’s hand, and I love their relationship. I had some close friends in my foster homes and best friends in high school, but nothing like what they share.
Nothing like what Nash and I share.
Finally, Nash hits the number and the phone rings. He puts it on speaker.
“Hello,” his mom answers.
“Hey, Mom. Is Dad around?” Nash asks nervously.
“Yes, he’s sitting beside me. Is everything ok?” she asks, concern lacing her voice.
“Yes. No. I’m not really sure.” Nash shakes his head, and his legs tremble. I place a hand on his knee, giving him my support. “I want to talk to you about something, but I’m nervous.”
“Nash, there’s nothing that you can’t talk to us about. You are scaring us,” his mom cries.
“Mom, Dad, I am gay,” Nash blurts out.
Talia and I exchange glances. I think we both thought it might take him a little while to say it. I’m proud of his bravery.
