“Thanks.”
“I’m worried about how I should come out to my parents. I’m scared of my dad, and definitely know that my mom will freak out. You’re pretty lucky to have an aunt that has no problems with you being gay.”
“Wayne, you’ve got lots of friends that will support you. Don’t they have PFLAG in Salt Lake?”
“I’m sure they do, but what if my parents cut me off? What if they tell the church I’m gay? I’ll be excommunicated, or something. I hate living a lie. I feel like I’m doing that here in the military. Acting straight, don’t ask, don’t tell: It’s such bullshit. My straight friends can hold hands, kiss in public. They can go out on the weekends, brag about which girl they banged. When they get married, they get all these military benefits. What do we get? If anyone knew we were together, they’d just shit on us and make it look like we’re scum.”
They sipped their coffees for a while before Wayne leaned closer.