Chapter 55

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Back in the dining room, Brian served them cheesecake with chocolate swirls.

Mr. Truttle said, “Men, I’m not happy that you’re gay in a heterosexual-obsessed society, but I’m happy that you’re happy with each other. It’s a changing world, but a lot of hate remains. When I was driving around, and not just in the South, I saw significant prejudice against anyone who wasn’t white or was of a different class. One trucker got beat up by others because he was a Negro and he got a real sweet load to carry that made good money. Another one damn near got killed because some of the others thought he was a fag. An Indian driver had troubles just for who he was.” He sighed. “At least California is more reasonable—mostly, anyway.”

They stayed up late talking and sharing. Afterward, Jim and Brian got into bed and hugged.

Jim said, “I feel different, lighter. I was so afraid my life was over, yet he was cool with it.”