James

The bell rang at the end of the day, and to his surprise, James found himself, not walking alone, but with Oliver.

“I didn’t know anyone lived around here other than me,” James said.

“Yeah… well… I do, I guess,” said Oliver with a small flinch of a smile.

“Well… wanna walk together then?”

“Sure. Nice shirt by the way…”

“Oh!... I mean, thanks.” They walked in silence for a few blocks before James broke the silence, “If we’re going to be, well… friends, there’s something you need to know about me. I understand if you don’t want to be friends after this so… well, nevermindactually,” James stuttered quickly.

“Hey, man, It’s totally fine. You seem pretty cool. I’m not one to judge.”

“Okay,” James took a deep breath and mumbled, “I’m gay…” Oliver just stared.

“I’m sorry,” James said, “I’ll just leave now.” James turned the corner and ran. He blew it. His one chance at a friend, and he blew it. Tears streamed down his face, tears he’s been holding back for what might have been years. Tears were a sign of weakness, and James was weak. He knew it. Suddenly, his thoughts were interrupted by a shout,

“James! Wait!”

“What!” James snapped angrily, he didn’t want to hear it. He was sick of teasing, completely done with it.

“James, I still want to be friends! I don’t care if you’re gay! I promise!” At this, James stopped. He’d never heard these words before. Usually, a confession like this would get him beaten up, but Oliver... wanted to be his friend?