Page 75 of Slay the Gay Away, Daddy

“I promise,” I whisper, wanting my words to be heard by only him. “It gets so much better.” We share a knowing look, and his jaw trembles a little, but I swear to God, it’s like I’m staring at a mini-version of myself, because he quickly hardens his expression the same way I used to. Hiding himself away to keep himself safe. I get a gentle nod, and just the slightest hint of a smile out of the exchange. I wish there was more we could do for him. Maybe one day, provided he makes it to ‘one day’. I know exactly how low God’s love can make you feel sometimes. The kid quickly turns his attention away from us, probably not wanting his father to catch us conversing.

As Miles carries me down the side street, wedged between buildings and protestors, autumn leaves fall from the trees above. I snuggle my face into Miles’ neck, done with seeing their hateful faces.

“Dare?”

“Yeah, Daddy?”

“I’m seeing a lot of signs about the gay agenda. My dad used to talk about it all the time too. What is it?”

“The gay agenda?” I ask.

“Yeah.”

Reluctantly, I pull my face away from his neck and give him a gentle kiss, ignoring the sounds of revulsion coming from the crowd.

“This,” I say, cupping his cheek. “Me and you. Our little life. That’s the gay agenda.” A smile spreads across his face, and he breathes out a shaky breath, touching his forehead to mine. He chuckles to himself. “What?”

“Nothing. Everything. It’s just . . . Dare, I’m here, I’m queer, and I think I might be getting used to it.”

“Slay,” I whisper, and the look he gives me radiates Pride.