Disarmed (Fence #2)

by Sarah Rees Brennan

“You don’t need to leave your friends.” Seiji was starting to feel unnerved. “They’re not my friends, they’re business associates. I barely like them,” his father said, then speaking away from the phone, “Sorry, Jock, didn’t mean for you to hear that.” He transferred his attention back to Seiji. “Doesn’t matter! What matters is you, Seiji. I think I know what you’re going to tell me. I’m so glad you feel able to share this with me! Thank you. I, ah—love you.” Seiji cast a hunted look around the courtyard. He had the irrational wish to climb up a chestnut tree and escape this emotional conversation. “And I’m sure I will love Nicholas,” his father continued. “Why would you do that?!” asked Seiji. “He’s annoying, and he’s bad at fencing!” There was a long pause on his father’s end of the line. “I’m sure he has… qualities,” his father said at last. “The point is, I hope you know that you can always tell me… whatever it is you have to tell me. I’m accepting. I accept you. I just found it difficult to swallow the idea of Jesse.” “Why are you bringing up Jesse?” Seiji’s throat narrowed a small but crucial amount when he was forced to discuss Jesse Coste, his former fencing partner and the reason he was attending Kings Row. The mysterious obstruction in his throat made it difficult to speak clearly and show that Seiji was perfectly all right. “No reason,” said his dad. “I’m sorry. Let’s never talk about Jesse again. That would make me very happy. Tell me about Nicholas!”

Brooo I’m dying 😭😭😭