I laugh to myself, glad he’s maintained a sense of humor. A few minutes later, I sneak out the back.
At Hank’s, we eat the dinner I prepared and review the totally bonkers day together, starting at the top and filling each other in on everything that we’ve missed. I show him how my wasp women continue trending higher, and Hank tells me about the firm in crisis.
We move to the couch. Hank’s in his white t-shirt, and I get behind him to rub his shoulders, seeing the tension he’s carrying.
“It must be difficult,” I say, “working so hard and knowing your job is on the line. Especially with how much you’ve invested in your career.”
Hank lets out a deep breath. “I’ve put everything into my professional development,” he agrees. “It is stressful. And your dad hasn’t only questioned my future at the firm. When he told me to stay away from you, he even suggested he’d tank my reputation and my chance at future employment.”
I wince and tighten my grip on his shoulders. “He did?”
Hank turns to face me. “Sorry I didn’t tell you earlier,” he says. “We were already hiding, and I wasn’t sure how much I should share about the particulars of my professional relationship with him.”
I nod slowly as I process the information. “He threatened that,” I say, “and you still stood up for me today.”
Hank takes my hand. “I couldn’t stand silently while he said awful, untrue things about you. Especially with you there to hear them.”
I swallow as my emotions stir. “Thank you,” I say. “But please, don’t feel like you need to protect me from him. I’ve already set my boundary with my family. You’re the one with so much to lose.”
“Luckily, the firm needs me right now. Your dad made that clear. I have a strong hand to play if it ever comes down to it. But none of that matters. Given the choice, Elliot, I choose to stand with you.”
Love blooms, warmth filling me.
“I’ll always choose you,” I tell him and squeeze his hand back. “I know that I’m never going to have the kind of close, supportive relationship with my family that I want. But that’s okay, becauseI’m done looking to them for acceptance and love. I’m building those relationships for myself now, with my friends.” I swallow. “And with you, Hank.”
“Thank you for choosing me, Elliot.”
“You’re welcome, wilderness man.”
We gaze at each other for a moment before we each laugh.
Hank shifts his weight. “It’s been a major career day for you, too. The circumstances aren’t what you wanted, but the world is seeing your art now, Elliot. That’s exciting.”
I nod, glad to be reminded of that aspect. “Can I show you the statement?” I ask, and Hank nods eagerly. “I’d love any feedback. Or proofreading! Although Taylor is pretty eagle-eyed.”
As I watch, Hank reads over the statement I drafted this afternoon, intent and nodding seriously. It covers all the points he’s heard before. I talk about fan cultures and acceptance, and even get into the history of gay illustration a little.
“Fantastic,” he says. “Elegantly stated, Elliot.”
I smile broadly. “Thank you.” I pull out my tablet. “And look at this illustration I’m sketching to go with it.”
It’s a group scene with all my favorite characters, the wasp women and fantasy creatures and horny robots, all cheering and blowing party favors, surrounded by cakes and champagne pyramids.
Hank chuckles. “I love it.”
“I’m learning to face things head-on,” I tell Hank as I set the tablet aside and cuddle close, finding the spot under his arm that I first found on the island. “I’m still overworked and financially stressed, but hopefully I’ll land some new clients from the exposure.”
“You’ve got this,” Hank says confidently.
I hold him. “Thank you, Hank. There is one part of the media attention I’d like to avoid, though.”
“What’s that?”
“Going public as a couple,” I say. “It’s not that I’m not proud of you. I am. But I think I’d like a little more time for us to just be together, without the world looking.”
“I’d like that, too.”
We pull each other closer, and Hank kisses me. Soon, we undress, and we make love on the couch, potted plants all around us.
Ever since I climbed onto the life raft, my world has been flipped upside down, another disaster around every corner.
But here in Hank’s arms, I know I’ve finally landed where I’m meant to be.
