Page 142 of Pride High

Anthony managed a laugh as he slid closer. He was still trembling as Cameron wrapped an arm around him protectively. Although he wasn’t sure if it was the cold, or the overwhelming emotion coursing through his body that made him shake. “I love you so much,” he said.

Cameron kissed the top of his head. “I know. I love you too.”

They held each other, stealing what precious moments they could, before Cameron put the car in reverse. “Nothing would be more suspicious than us both being tardy.”

“I can think of a few things,” Anthony murmured. Then he swallowed. “I’m sorry you have to play these stupid games because of me.”

“Hey, I’m still playing them too,” Cameron said. “I’d like you to meet my parents before I come out. I don’t want any of their preconceived notions to blind them to how wonderful you are.”

“I don’t feel that way,” Anthony said, shaking his head.

“You will,” Cameron said. “When you’ve heard me say it enough.”

Anthony clutched his hand in response. “I’d like to meet your family.”

“Good. I’d invite you over on Saturday, but I’m going on a date.”

“Mindy,” Anthony said with a sigh. “You don’t have to. Not for me.”

“It’ll buy us both time,” Cameron said, glancing over at him, “and we’ll lose a little that night. But if it keeps you safe…” His attention returned to the road. “I’d do anything for you too, Anthony. Even this.”

CHAPTER 32

November 14th, 1992

Mindy finished applying lipstick in the vanity’s mirror. Then she leaned back to consider her own reflection. No fancy dress for this date. She’d given up on that particular fantasy. Instead she had opted for a soft pink sweater with a loose cowl neck, pairing it with faded blue jeans. Her makeup had turned out well, the hues enhancing what she felt were her best features. A puff of perfume was the finishing touch. She was excited! And apprehensive.

If only Cameron had asked her out first. She wanted to feel pursued, mostly because it was easier on her self-esteem. During the rest of the school week, there hadn’t been much flirtation between them. She had certainly tried, and Cameron was nice, reciprocating with the bare minimum. But as always, her imagination demanded so much more. Why didn’t he show up at one of her classes unannounced to escort her to the next? Or he could have pulled her into an alcove and attempted to kiss her, unable to wait for tonight.

Her sister Jessica had boyfriends who couldn’t seem to get enough. Mindy had seen her making out with them, and while she didn’t want to be groped like a piece of meat, it must be nice to feel wanted. Although this was only her first official date with Cameron. Maybe such things came with time. Speaking of which…

She heard the doorbell and swore. Mindy gathered up her things and rushed downstairs. She saw the entryway light reflecting off her father’s bald head. Cameron was standing in front of him, wearing an olive green dress shirt and a pair of beige slacks. He looked respectable, which was good, because her father was already grilling him.

“Have you been in any accidents?” Steve was asking Cameron. “Or been pulled over since getting your license?”

“He drove us downtown on Halloween and got us safely home again,” Mindy said, rolling her eyes covertly for Cameron’s benefit.

Steve turned around, his red beard bristling with concern before his blue eyes softened and he smiled. “Don’t you look lovely!”

“That’s my line, sir,” Cameron said, smiling at her. “You look beautiful, Mindy. As always.”

“Thank you,” she said with a thrilled flush.

“What time will you be back?” her father asked, already turning on Cameron again. “Wait, why am I asking? Her curfew is eleven o’clock. Don’t be late. Not even a minute.”

“I’ll make sure she’s home before then,” Cameron promised.

Steve put a possessive arm around her and squeezed. “Have fun. Call if you need anything. I’ll be here. Your mother will too, before long. Do you have change for a payphone?”

“I’ll be fine, Dad,” Mindy said. “We have to go now or we’ll be late. Right?”

“Oh! Yes!” Cameron looked back and forth between them, trying to satisfy both parties. “But not so late that I’ll have to drive fast.”

“See you tonight, baby girl,” Steve said before kissing her cheek.

Mindy felt tremendous relief as soon as they were outside. Her father waited on the porch, watching as Cameron opened the passenger-side door. He was still there as they drove away.

“Sorry about that,” Mindy said. “I’m the baby of the family, so he’s protective of me.”

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