It was Thursday when Arlo came home only to learn about an unexpected piece of good news.

“Dad was offered a job.” Mother informed him as soon as he came back.

“That’s great!” Arlo was really happy. After so many months his father was finally smiling and seemed to be more energetic than ever.

“Congratulations dad!”

“I can’t believe it. The job offer came out of the blue and it’s a really good one.” Dad was excited. “They offered me bonuses, as well as the company's car.” Dad’s face was practically beaming with joy. 

“I’m so happy dad. Which company is it?” Arlo hugged his father and waited for his answer. There was a sight and dad freed himself from Arlo’s hug.

“Well son, this is the only drawback from this offer. It’s in Manhelm. It’s the company your uncle works in.” Dad’s worried expression made Arlo clear they had to move the house.

Two days later Arlo was sitting in Mr Pepper, the fanciest pizzeria in town, with his best friends from school. He was looking blankly at the plate for a moment.

“So you will be a big city boy now.” Dan started the conversation as the situation was a bit awkward.

“Yeh, I guess I will.” Arlo smiled trying to shake off the feeling of sadness. 

“It’s only 1.5 hours by train, so you can visit me anytime you want.” Arlo added, trying to convince himself that it wasn’t a big deal.

“Where are you going to live?” Tim asked curiously.

“The company is amazing, they even offered my dad a flat with four rooms and a spacious terrace.” 

“How about the school?” 

“Well, dad was recommended a school that seems to be “THE BEST” in the city and I will probably go there.” Arlo looked worried again.

“It will be fine Arlo.” Josh patted his back. “ You are a cool guy that is liked by everyone. It will be fine. After all it’s only two months left and you will finish school.” 

“Yes, you are right. Dig in, the pizza is getting cold.” Arlo took a bite but despite double cheese and extra sauce he couldn’t feel the joy of eating fast food today. He took a glimpse at Matt. His best friend was sullen and quiet. Arlo nudged him and smiled, Mat smiled back but something in his eyes looked very different today.

Eventually the mood improved and after two hours they parted. Matt was following Arlo to his home as he lived close by. His steps were getting slower than he finally stopped. Arlo turned around.

“What is it Matt?”

Arlo was looking at his friend feeling very uneasy. Matt was his kindergarten friend and they grew up together. He was tall with short black hair and brown eyes. Those eyes were right now looking straight at Arlo.

“There is something I wanted to tell you.” He said in a hushed voice. 

Arlo came closer and grabbed Matt’s hand.

“What’s the matter? Are you all right?” Matt’s expression didn’t look too good.

“I’m  fine. I just wanted to tell you that I like you, Arlo.” He had this serious expression again.

“Oh my god, you scared me for a moment. I like you too Matt. We are besties , right?” Arlo smiled and Matt flushed.

“That's not what I meant. I really like you, like romantically. I fell in love with you a long time ago. All these  years I kept quiet because I was scared you would hate me, but now I guess I have to take my chance or I will regret never telling you how I feel.” 

For a brief moment Arlo was speechless. It took him a moment to realize that his best friend was gay and what’s more, he was in love with him. 

“I don’t know what to say Matt, I’m a bit shocked.” Arlo was desperately looking for some right words in his head.

“It's Ok Arlo. I didn’t expect anything  and I understand.” Matt lowered his head and turned around ready to leave. His best friend just confessed to him and was rejected.  Something snapped in Arlo’s head, he can’t let him go like that. Arlo quickly caught up with Matt and hugged him from behind.

“Matt, I might not love you the way you hoped but you are very important to me. I love you like a friend and I don’t want you to be sad. I’m sorry.”

Matt turned around and hugged Arlo back. 

‘You are too kind Arlo, most other guys would slap me or curse me. You are giving me a hug.”

The next morning Arlo was sitting in a car with puffy eyes. He actually cried. He felt sorry for Matt. All the way to Manhelm he kept thinking about his best friend. Would it be actually possible for him to be in a relationship with another guy? He even allowed Matt to give him a short kiss on his lips. It was more like a peck but his lips felt so soft. Arlo blushed again. 

In no time they were in Manhelm. Uncle John was driving them and a truck loaded with their most important stuff was right behind them.

“We’re here.’ Uncle John announced with a bright smile.

“Your new flat is on the fourth floor.” He pointed at the terrace with some garden furniture on it. 

Till the late evening they were unpacking their stuff, yet they weren’t finished. Arlo had to admit that the flat was cool, his room was even bigger then back at home and equipped with TV and modern furniture. Everything was furnished and ready to use. All he had to do was fill those empty shelves with his stuff and that’s it. 

Laying in his bed Arlo was  thinking about Matt, his friends and old school. He was still sad and his emotions were in turmoil yet he had to calm down. Tomorrow he will have to face new students and teachers. There is little time left till graduation and he has to do well. He was both excited and scared thinking about his future.