“Would he tell you?” His dad raised an eyebrow.
Would Rory tell him? He hadn’t told Rory right away. He’d been out to Sarah for two years before he told Rory.
“Of course he would. We’re friends.”
“Even friends keep secrets if they’re scared.”
“I’m sure he’s not gay.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure.”
“Dad, why are you trying so hard?”
“Bernardo, I love you, son. I see how you look at Emilio and his family. I know you want someone in your life. I care about you, and I want what’s best for you. Your mother wanted it for you too. She would have found someone for you if there had been more time.”
“She was wonderful,” Bernard said. “She never got to know I was gay. I know she would have accepted me, loved me, and helped me find love.” Tears welled up in his eyes.
“She knew. We both did. Neither of us wanted to force it. We knew you’d come to us when it was time.” He put his arm around Bernard.
“Thanks, Dad. That means a lot.” He wrapped his dad in a hug.
Bernard wiped away the tears and walked to the cooler to grab a soda.
He went over to Bonnie’s fenced-in area for her house and play area. Ginger and Bonnie chased each other. Two carefree dogs.
Rory walked up next to him. “It’s wonderful to see them play.”
“It sure is,” Bernard said. “We need to hang out more now that you’re done with college.”
“I’d like to hang out again. It’s been lonely the last six years.”
“I’ve missed you,” Bernard said. “You and Sarah are the only ones I’ve kept in contact with from high school. I haven’t seen you since you started grad school.”
“I’ve missed you too. I’m almost done, so we can pick up where we left off.”
“I’d like that. I don’t have many friends these days.”
“Why do you think that is?” Rory asked.
“I didn’t think most people would accept me when I came out. So, I pushed most of them away for fear of being hurt. I’m sorry I did that to you.”
Bernard put his face in his hands. He’d pushed one of his best friends away. He’d come back after a year. It was great, until Rory left for grad school. He’d missed his friend for six years.
“I understand why you did it. I know my family doesn’t approve of our friendship.”
“I’m glad you came back,” Bernard said.
“I’m glad I did too.”
Bernard turned. Rory stood there, a handsome man. His father was right. Rory was his type.
Rory’s cologne wafted into Bernard’s nose. He closed his eyes and smiled.
“So, how are you after…you know?” Rory asked.
“Tracy?” Bernard said. “I’m doing okay. I haven’t dated since.”
“I know it was hard on you,” Rory said.
