“You know,” I say thickly, “I was terrified to get close to anyone again for years after you. I mean, sure, I had friends back in Philly, but it was never the same. The rose-tinted glasses had been shattered and there was no going back for me.” He makes a strangled noise in his throat. “I didn’t even come out to anyone but my family until I was in high school ’cause I was scared I’d lose another friend over it. Or worse, I’d...I’d fall for someone who couldn’t love me back the way I needed.” My breath hitches.
