They all looked at Davi.
“I minored in biology,” he said.
“Well, either way,” she said. “I shouldn’t have to see it.”
“Then don’t look,” Sophia said. “No one’s making you look at them.”
The woman glared at Bernard and Rory, her hands balled into fists. She looked as if she was going to say something but thought better of it. They outnumbered her, and if she continued to harass them, they could file a report.
“You’re disgusting,” she snapped before turning and walking away.
“What in the world?” Nicolas said. “What got into her?”
“I’m sorry we couldn’t do more,” Sophia said. “You shouldn’t have to deal with bigots like that.”
“We face it every day,” Bernard said. “At least those who are caught like we were, or those who appear more effeminate. It’s horrible stereotyping.”
“This happens a lot?” Jeff asked.
“More than you’d think,” Kelly said.
“You’ve dealt with that?” Rory asked Kelly.
“I…” Kelly paused. “I had some trouble getting help from the law. I’ll leave it at that.”
“Why does anyone care what two adults do if it’s not hurting them or anyone else?” Nicolas said.
“It’s about control and what they considered normal,” Bernard said. “While homosexuality has been around for as long as man has, it’s gone through phases. Some places didn’t see it as an issue. I think religion had a hand in making it unacceptable. While you have people who are not religious oppose it, it still stems from religious doctrine.”
“Well,” Nicolas said, “it’s messed up. I hope it gets better in time.”
“We can only hope,” Kelly said.
“Rory, would you like to take a short walk with me?” Bernard asked.
“Okay.”
Bernard led him around the lake to a small bench. It was quiet, with few people milling around the lake.
“How are you feeling?” Bernard asked.
“I’m okay, why?”
“I know you haven’t faced discrimination in public like this, except for the one guy, and I want to see how you’re feeling.”
“It hurts to hear those things. I’m not sure what to do.” Rory looked down. A few tears fell into his beard.
Bernard’s body ached at the sight of Rory. This wonderful man had to face new obstacles now that he was out. Bernard would do anything to protect him.
He wrapped his arms around Rory.
“I’m here with you,” he whispered. “I’ll always be here for you.”
“I hear these things at church, and I’m lost. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do.”
“You’re supposed to be the best person you can be.”
“I still believe in God, but I don’t know what to believe.” Rory shook in his arms. “Do you still believe in God, Bernard?”
