“And it’s not that it’s just because I ‘came out’,” I said, using air quotes. “I think it’s because I’m not ashamed. I always figured if the local farming community knew I was gay, it’d be something to apologise for.” I shook my head and suddenly found the steering wheel interesting, looking at it instead of him. “But I’m kinda proud of who you let me be.” He never said anything back, and when I looked at him, he was just sitting there, stunned. “Charlie, I don’t know what to say,” he said quietly. “I think that’s the best, most perfect thing you’ve ever said to me. That anyone will ever say
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