Page 146 of The Manny

“This thing you want to talk about, it concerns your parents?”

“No. But something happened a few weeks ago that has me extremely confused. If my parents found out about it, they’d probably disown me. Not that they run my life. I’m twenty-six and I support myself.” He frowned. “It’s more that every time I think about what happened, I can just imagine their disgusted reaction. I’m having trouble deciding if I think what happened was wrong, or if I’m simply mirroring what they have drilled in me my whole life.”

“I see.”

“Sorry I’m being so vague.”

I hesitated. “Well, if you’re talking about what I think you are, Scott already told me what happened.”

He glanced up quickly, his expression borderline horrified.“What?”

I grimaced. “Sorry. I… he… confessed to me because he was worried about you. You wouldn’t talk to him. He wanted my help.”

He raked a shaky hand through his hair. “Well, that’s humiliating.”

“Weren’t you going to tell me anyway?” I frowned.

“Yeah, but you’ve known this whole time?”

I narrowed my eyes. “Brody, I’m the last guy who’s going to judge you. Hopefully, you know that?”

He blew out a tired breath. “I… I guess.”

“I understand why you’re struggling. Especially now that you’ve told me about your parents.”

His eyes glittered with confusion. “I really don’t understand what’s happening to me. I’ve never had any interest in guys before. I mean, I’venoticedguys. I’m not blind and I see when someone is attractive.” He licked his lips. “But I’ve never wanted to… do anything with them.”

“From what Scott said you were both very drunk.”

“Yes.” He nodded. “That is true. Still, I’ve been plenty sloshed in the past, and nothing like that ever happened.”

I shrugged. “It’s not that unusual to have curiosity.”

A muscle worked in his jaw. “Sure. Maybe when you’re younger.”

“I don’t think there’s an age limit on this stuff.”

But… I…” He shook his head. “I feel like I’m going insane.”

“Why?”

“Because it’s like I don’t even know myself.”

“Listen, Brody.” I leaned forward on my elbows. “Sexuality is complex. Maybe your parents wouldn’t agree with that statement, but they’re wrong. People like to put things in boxes. It makes us humans feel more in control. But the reality is, you’re attracted to who you’re attracted to. No one can tell you who to like.”

“I guess.” He slumped, looking miserable. “I don’t know what to do. Scott wants to talk in person. But I’m not sure I want to do that.”

“Why not?”

“I’m not ready.”

“Fair enough.” I leaned back in my chair. “Would you like me to talk to him? Tell him to back off? Give you space?”

He looked up, relief rippling through his gaze. “Would you do that? I know you two are close.”

“I’m happy to do that. I hope you know Scott only wanted to apologize. He’s not trying to have a repeat performance.”

Wrinkling his brow, he said, “I can’t be around him until I understand what’s going on with me.”

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