Something Like Spring (Something Like, #4)

by Jay Bell

“I’m sorry.” These were the first words Michelle said when he opened his bedroom door. He gestured for her to enter. Instead she stepped forward and hugged him. “I’m so sorry,” she repeated. “It’s fine,” Jason said, lump in his throat. “I’m an old pro at this.” “I don’t mean the foster placement,” Michelle said. She stepped back and double-checked the hallway. Then she shut the bedroom door and sat on the edge of his mattress. “I mean I’m sorry for what you’re going through. The heartbreak you mentioned last time, you were talking about Caesar, weren’t you?” “Yeah,” Jason said, maybe a little defensively because she hurried to explain. “There’s nothing wrong with being gay or having feelings for him. You know that, right?” “You’re cool with it?” “I mentioned that you remind me of my brother. He’s gay too, and yes, I’m cool with it. But when I said last time that everyone goes through heartbreak, I didn’t mean like this.” Michelle considered him and sighed. “What a nightmare.” “It’s fine,” he lied. “On the other hand,” Michelle said, trying to appear optimistic, “I get to see a lot more of you again. That’s a silver lining, right?” He smiled for her sake, knowing she meant well. “Is there going to be some horrible meeting downstairs, or can we just go?” “I’ve already talked to the Hubbards,” Michelle said. “We can go. Looks like you’re all packed up?” “Yeah.” “Anyone you want to say goodbye to first?” Jason looked to make sure she was serious. “I’m not sure if he’s in his r...