take that huge, first gasp of air. That’s the kind of sigh Steph
made. Like she’s drowning, sinking down, with no hope, but
then suddenly decides to kick for the surface and finally
reaches it this time.
She turns and studies me in bewilderment like she’s not
really sure who I am or how I got here. But then she purses her
lips and I see her determination come back. Her face is
shockingly pale, but I can literally see some of the color
coming back into her cheeks.
Another big inhale floods the room. A long exhale.
At least now Steph is looking at me. I can usually read
people pretty well, especially when they’re making eye
contact, but right now, I’m completely confused. Steph’s face
is a mixture of fear and exhilaration. Like she’s been waiting a
lifetime to say this.
And suddenly, I know.
I just know.
Because I felt the same way when I first told my family
and my friends.
“The matches were perfect in every way. You did the
best job you could have. It was just that they were never going
to work, because I’m not—I’ve tried, but I-I’m not interested
in men. In that way. I-I’m actually attracted to…women.”
Chapter 10
Stephanie
Instead of relief, my words are followed by an immediate
sense of panic. There obviously isn’t any taking them back.
Unfortunately for all mankind, time machines haven’t been
invented. I thought it would feel good to finally say it. To
finally tell someone. To actually admit the truth. I thought it