Chapter 55

“My point, kid, is that yeah, I have my…stereotypes about queers,” Dad said, then winced. “Gays. But it didn’t cross my mind that you fit any of those stereotypes, and it still doesn’t. That’s why you took me by surprise. Maybe I need to learn, but it just didn’t seem possible you were…well,” he waved a hand and grimaced. “I just didn’t think you could be,” he said finally.

Shane swallowed and nodded.

“I guess my other point is that you and Jason were pretty similar kids in a lot of ways. I never expected you to really turn out any different, but you’ve gone your own way in the last couple of years,” Dad said, and frowned. “Independent too young, maybe, but you’re a bright kid. I’ve not had to worry much about you until this…fiasco.”

“Sorry. I…”