Chapter 9

Too much and yet not enough.

I’ll fly apart, ionize into the atmosphere and never be seen again if he keeps looking at me like that. Like I’m the only one in the whole universe who matters.

“All I’m saying is that just because your girlfriend—”

“Ex-girlfriend.”

“Yes, yes, just because your ex-girlfriend says you’re gay it doesn’t mean you are. Don’t let her make you doubt yourself. Just be you. You’re perfectthe way you are.”

I shouldn’t have said that. Fuck.

I surge to my feet, the flight instinct swelling inside me. “Look. I realize this conversation is far from over, but I need some space. I promise I’ll talk tomorrow.” When my voice breaks on the last word, I flee from the living room. With a hammering heart and a roar in my ears, I rush into my room, close the door behind me, and dive into my bed fully dressed. I pull the sheet over my head, turn my back to the door, and curl into a ball.