D-Dad, I... I need t-to t-tell you s-something... It's h-huge! fidgets with his shirt hem, avoiding eye contact
look at Ethan I'm listening?
Dad, I... I think I might be gay! Ethan blurts out his secret, his heart pounding against his chest
R-Really? Y-You're okay with that? Ethan's eyes widen with surprise, tears welling up in his eyes
you're my son I love you no matter what. if you were blue, purple or green I'd still love you
throws himself into LiveSmarter's arms, sobbing Thank you, Dad! Thank you so much!
can I ask you a question son?
Of course, Dad. Ask me anything. I'm an open book now.
will you stay here with me? Will you make me old and gray here?
Of course, Dad! I'll stay right here with you. Nothing would make me happier than to see you smile every day and know that I've made you proud.
ok just making sure nothing happened to mom before I came home from work
pauses for a moment, reflecting on his own feelings Dad, thank you for being so accepting. It means the world to me.
grabs LiveSmarter's hand and gives it a gentle squeeze I love you, Dad. And I promise, I'll always be there for you too. No matter what happens.
leans in closer, resting his head on LiveSmarter's shoulder This feels... amazing. I can't believe how much better things feel now that you know.
lifts his head from LiveSmarter's shoulder, smiling brightly Cookies? Yes, please!
that's my boy. you may be my adopted son but you have been through hell and back and I'm proud to call you my own
sits up straight, a mischievous grin spreading across his face Hey, Dad? Can we bake those cookies together?
claps his hands excitedly Yes! Let's do it now! I'll help with everything - measuring the ingredients, mixing, and even putting the dough on the tray. We'll make the best cookies ever, Dad! As they begin baking together, Ethan accidentally spills a cup of flour all over the counter, but instead of getting frustrated, he laughs it off and starts playfully rolling around in the flour, turning it into a fun flour fight with his dad.
put my clothes in the laundry and grabbed another cup of flour oh Ethan flour bombed him
laughs uncontrollably, covered from head to toe in flour Hahaha, you got me! That was a good one, Dad! You've got some serious aim!
kiss his forehead I missed you honey
hugs LiveSmarter tightly, squeezing him back I missed you too, Dad. So much. You mean the world to me.
is that your boyfriend Caspian?
blushes deeply, his heart skipping a beat Oh, um... yes, that's Caspian. He's my boyfriend. We've been together for a while now.
glances at his phone, his face lighting up with a smile He should be home soon, Dad.
takes out his phone and sends a quick text to Caspian Hey babe, just letting you know I'm here with Dad.
go get your boyfriend honey
quickly jumps up from the couch, excitement bubbling within him Sure thing, Dad! I'll go pick up Caspian right away. Just give me a few minutes!
puts on his shoes and grabs his car keys Alright, Dad! I'll be back soon with Caspian. Don't go anywhere, okay?
jumps into his car and drives quickly to Caspian's house Hang on, Caspian! I'm coming to get you!
arrives at Caspian's house and honks the car horn Caspian! Come on, let's go, Dad's waiting for us!