The Dreamer - 11. Chapter 11 - Ties that Bind

Part 1 - A Stronger Bond

The weeks after their beach trip were some of the happiest Manny had ever experienced. The tension that had once hung over them seemed to dissolve in the ocean air, leaving behind a relationship that was stronger, more intimate, and filled with a renewed sense of purpose. Manny and Robby had always been close, but now, their bond felt unbreakable. They had navigated the challenges of their third year together, and in the process, they had discovered just how much they meant to each other.

As the leaves began to fall and the temperatures dropped, Manny thought more and more about the future. Not just about finishing school or what their careers might look like but about the life he wanted to build with Robby. It was a thought that had been quietly growing in the back of his mind, but now it was all-consuming. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with Robby and didn’t want to hide that from anyone—especially his family.

One evening, as they lay in bed, the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the curtains, Manny and Robby were wrapped in each other’s arms. The world outside seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in a cocoon of warmth and contentment. Manny felt the steady rhythm of Robby’s heartbeat against his chest, a soothing reminder of their bond. Robby’s fingers gently traced patterns on Manny’s back, each touch sending a ripple of warmth through him.

The silence between them was comfortable, filled with unspoken words and shared memories. Manny gazed into Robby’s eyes. The deep connection they shared was reflected in the softness of Robby’s gaze. He could feel the love in every breath they took together, in every subtle movement that brought them closer.

At that moment, everything felt right. Manny knew no one else in the world he wanted to be with, no place he’d rather be. The thoughts swirling in his head for days finally found their way to his lips. He tightened his hold on Robby, drawing him even closer, their foreheads touching as he spoke, his voice tender and full of emotion.

“Robby,” he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “I’ve been thinking a lot about us, about our future.”

Robby looked up at him, a soft smile playing on his lips. “Yeah? What about it?”

Manny took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. “I don’t want to live with secrets anymore. I’ve spent too much of my life hiding who I am, hiding what we have. I don’t want to do that anymore. I want to go home for the holidays, and I want you to come with me.”

Robby blinked, clearly surprised. “You… you want me to meet your parents?”

Manny nodded, feeling a surge of determination. “Yes. I want to introduce you to them, Robby. I want them to know who you are and what you mean to me. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, and I want my family to be a part of that.”

For once, Robby seemed at a loss for words. His usual confidence faltered as he processed what Manny was saying. He had always known that their relationship was serious, but hearing Manny talk about spending the rest of their lives together and bringing him home to meet his parents was overwhelming in the best possible way.

“Manny, I…” Robby started, his voice catching in his throat. “I don’t know what to say. I want that too, more than anything. But… are you sure? I mean, your parents… do you think they’ll be okay with it?”

Manny could see the uncertainty in Robby’s eyes, and he reached out to cup his face, his thumb gently brushing Robby’s cheek. “I don’t know for sure,” Manny admitted. “But I can’t keep this from them any longer. They need to know, and I need to be honest with them. I’m tired of pretending, Robby. I want them to see the real me, and that means showing them the most important person in my life—you.”

Robby was silent for a moment, his mind racing as he considered what Manny was proposing. The idea of meeting Manny’s parents and stepping into that part of his life was daunting. But the love he felt for Manny was stronger than any fear or doubt.

“Okay,” Robby finally said, his voice filled with emotion. “I’ll go with you. We’ll do this together. We’ll figure it out, together.”

Manny smiled, relief and happiness flooding through him. “Thank you, Robby. You have no idea how much this means to me.”

Robby leaned in and kissed him, a gentle, lingering kiss that spoke volumes about his commitment to their relationship. The kiss deepened, slow and unhurried, as if they were savoring every moment, every breath. It was a kiss that held the promise of more, a quiet invitation that neither of them needed to voice.

As their lips parted, Robby rested his forehead against Manny’s, their breaths mingling in the quiet of the room. The warmth of the kiss lingered, filling the space between them with a tender, unspoken understanding. Without a word, they let the moment unfold naturally, their hands exploring familiar paths with a new sense of purpose.

The kiss had opened a door, one that led to a deeper connection as they slowly began to undress each other. Every touch, every caress, was filled with affection, with a desire that was as much about love as it was about the physical need to be close. The soft rustle of fabric falling away was the only sound, leaving them surrounded by the quiet of the night.

As their bodies intertwined in a rhythm that felt both new and familiar, the outside world faded away. All that mattered was the warmth of their skin, the feel of each other’s heartbeats, and the way their love seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment. In that shared silence, they found a deeper intimacy, one that spoke of a bond that would only continue to strengthen with time.

Later, as they lay wrapped in each other’s arms, the room filled with the soft sounds of their breathing and the fading echoes of their connection, reality slowly began to seep back in. The world outside their cocoon started to reassert itself, the weight of their lives beyond the room gradually pressing in. Manny could feel the rise and fall of Robby’s chest against his own, a steady rhythm that grounded him in the present.

Manny traced lazy circles on Robby’s back, his fingers trailing over the familiar contours of his skin. The warmth of their shared moment still lingered, but now, thoughts of the future began to surface in the quiet aftermath. They lay there in comfortable silence, letting the moment out as long as they could, savoring the peace before life’s demands returned to the forefront of their minds.

Eventually, Robby broke the silence, his voice soft but tinged with the reality they both knew they would have to face. “So, when do we tell your parents?” he asked, a hint of nervousness creeping into his voice.

Manny considered this for a moment. “I think it’s best to wait until we’re there, in person. It’ll be easier to explain face-to-face. I want them to see us together, to see how much we care about each other.”

Robby nodded, understanding. “And what about my parents? How do you want to handle that?”

Manny hesitated, knowing that Robby’s situation was more complicated. Robby’s family had never fully accepted his sexuality, and the thought of introducing Manny as his partner could be fraught with tension. But Manny also knew that they couldn’t avoid the conversation forever.

“I think we should take it one step at a time,” Manny said gently. “Let’s focus on my parents first. We’ll see how that goes, and then we can figure out how to approach your family. We don’t have to rush anything.”

Robby seemed relieved by this. “Yeah, you’re right. One step at a time.”

The winter break was only a month away, and the days seemed to fly by as they prepared for the trip. Manny felt excited and anxious about finally introducing Robby to his parents but nervous about how they would react. He knew that his mom had always held out hope that he would end up with Cindy, and he wasn’t sure how she would take the news that Robby was more than just a friend.

But Manny also knew that this was a necessary step. Their fourth year would be intense, with the internship likely taking up most of their time, and they might not get another chance to go home together. It was now or never.

As the day of their departure approached, Manny and Robby spent hours talking about how they would handle the conversation with Manny’s parents. They rehearsed different scenarios, trying to prepare for any reaction they might face. But no matter how often they went over it, there was always a lingering uncertainty—a fear of the unknown.

The night before they were set to leave, Manny sat on the edge of the bed, his hands clasped tightly in his lap. Robby sat beside him, sensing the tension that had settled over the room.

“Manny,” Robby said softly, reaching to take his hand. “Whatever happens, we’ll face it together. We’ve been through a lot already, and we’ve come out stronger every time. This will be no different.”

Manny looked up at him, gratitude and love shining in his eyes. “I know. I’m just… I’m scared, Robby. Scared of how they’ll react, scared of what it might mean for us.”

Robby squeezed his hand, his expression filled with unwavering support. “It’s okay to be scared. But you’re not alone in this. We’ll get through it together, no matter what.”

Manny nodded, taking comfort in Robby’s words. “Thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“You’ll never have to find out,” Robby replied, leaning in to kiss him.

As they lay down together, wrapped in each other’s arms, Manny felt a sense of resolve settle over him. Tomorrow, they would take the next step in their journey—together. It wouldn’t be easy, but nothing worth having ever was. And as long as they had each other, Manny knew they could face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The trip to the bus stop was tense, knowing that in a few days, they would be home. He had told his parents not to come to the station to get them, that they would be renting a car and would come. He told them that he was bringing a friend, and naturally, they thought that it would be Cindy.

Manny felt that sharing who it was at this point would not be productive, so instead he left that part of the story out.

Part 2 - Coming Home

The trip home was nerve-wracking, not just for Manny but also for Robby. For all his usual confidence and carefree attitude, this visit had him on edge. Manny had spent the entire bus ride filling Robby in on the details—his mom’s warm but occasionally overbearing affection, his dad’s stoic demeanor, and their small-town values. Robby had taken it all in, repeating their names under his breath, wanting to make sure he didn’t mess anything up.

“So your dad’s name is Terry, and your mom’s name is Vivian. Right?” Robby asked, his voice tinged with nervousness.

Manny smiled reassuringly, though he could feel the tightness in his own chest. “Yes, Robby. You’ve got it. But really, don’t worry so much. It’ll be okay. I’m sure it will be.”

It was funny, really. Usually, it was Robby who told Manny that everything would be fine. But this time, Robby was the one with the jitters, showing a vulnerability that Manny rarely saw. Robby was taking this seriously—he knew how much this meant to Manny and didn’t want to disappoint him.

Two days later, the bus pulled into the sleepy town where Manny had grown up. The town hadn’t changed much, though a new car rental agency had opened up, a sign that more people were visiting, seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. They rented a car—Manny still hadn’t learned to drive and had no license—and loaded their bags into the back seat. The drive to Manny’s home was short, but each mile felt heavy with the weight of what was to come.

As they pulled up to the house, Manny noticed the porch lights were on, casting a warm glow over the front steps. His father had put up the Christmas lights, which now decorated the front of the house, twinkling softly in the evening air. A few of the trees in the yard were strung with lights as well, their soft glow adding to the festive scene.

Manny remembered when he was younger, when they would all gather together as a family to hang the lights. It had always been a special tradition, one that brought them together, but this year, it was something his parents did without him. The thought brought a wave of sadness, but knowing he would be spending his first Christmas at home with Robby filled him with a deep sense of joy.

As he gazed forward, he saw a silhouette at the window—his mom, waiting for him, just like she always did. She had been watching for their arrival, and the sight filled Manny with a mix of comfort and anxiety.

“Ready for this, Robby?” Manny asked, his voice quiet.

“Yeah, I am,” Robby replied, though his voice was tight. “Let’s do this.”

They got out of the car and walked up the familiar path to the front steps. Robby was a few steps behind Manny. As they approached the house, Manny’s mom opened the door, her face lighting up with a wide smile. She stepped out onto the porch, arms open wide.

“Mason!” she exclaimed, pulling him into a tight hug. “You’re home!”

Manny hugged her back, feeling a rush of warmth and nostalgia. But before he could say anything, his mom pulled back slightly, looking over his shoulder. “Where’s Cindy? Don’t be shy, dear, she can come out and introduce herself.”

Manny’s heart sank. He knew this moment would come, but it didn’t make it any easier. He glanced back at Robby, then turned back to his mom. “Mom, Cindy’s not with me. Maybe we should go inside and talk.”

The smile on his mom’s face faltered as she noticed Robby standing a few steps behind. A look of realization dawned on her face, and she quickly turned and went back inside the house, leaving the door open behind her. Manny gave Robby a small nod, gesturing for him to follow.

“Mom, where’s Dad? Can we talk?” Manny asked as they stepped into the house.

His mom’s voice was softer now, tinged with confusion and worry. “He’s… uh, he’s in the living room, glued to his newspaper, as usual.” She said with a nervous laughter, knowing what was going to be said next.

They walked into the living room, where Manny’s dad sat in his favorite armchair, the newspaper folded neatly on his lap. The room was filled with the familiar scents of home—coffee, wood polish, and the faint aroma of his mom’s cooking. It felt both comforting and suffocating.

He spotted the Christmas tree, still sitting on its base, waiting to be decorated. They had waited for him to arrive before decorating it, and that made what he was about to say even more difficult. Would they accept him? Would they accept Robby? Would they both be spending their first Christmas together as a family, or would they have to leave?

“Dad, Mom,” Manny began, his voice steady despite the pounding in his chest, “I’d like you to meet someone.”

Manny’s dad looked up from his newspaper, his eyes narrowing slightly as he saw Robby standing beside his son. “This is Robert,” Manny continued, “but everyone calls him Robby. Robby, this is my dad, Terry, and my mom, Vivian.”

Robby stepped forward, extending his hand with a nervous but sincere smile. “Terr... Uh, Sir, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

Manny’s dad hesitated for a moment before slowly rising from his chair. He shook Robby’s hand firmly but without warmth. “Welcome to our home, Robert,” he said gruffly, his voice devoid of emotion.

Robby then turned to Manny’s mom, offering her a polite nod. “Ma’am, Manny’s told me a lot about you. I’m glad to finally meet you.”

Manny’s mom, already standing, gave Robby a brief, tentative hug before sitting down again, her expression unreadable.

Manny had rehearsed this moment a thousand times in his head, but now that it was here, the words felt heavy and difficult to say. Before he could start, his mom spoke first.

“There isn’t a Cindy, is there, Mason?” Her voice was soft, almost resigned.

Manny shook his head, his heart aching at the pain in her voice. “No, Mom. Cindy’s real, but she’s not with me. She never was, and she never will be. It’s not who I am, and it’s not something I can change.”

He took a deep breath, glancing at Robby for support before continuing. “Mom, Dad—Robby and I are…”

His dad interrupted, his voice surprisingly calm. “We understand, Mason. Your mother and I… we held out hope that maybe you were confused. Maybe you just needed time to figure things out. But I think… we were hoping for too much.”

Manny was taken aback by his father’s words. It was more than he had ever expected his dad to say, and its weight settled heavily on his shoulders.

His mom’s eyes filled with unshed tears as she added, “But what about that day when Cindy called? What was that, Mason?” She asked, still clinging to some faint hope, as if searching for an explanation that could ease the pain. Her voice trembled slightly, betraying the doubt that lingered despite her best efforts to hold onto the belief that everything could still be okay.

Manny sighed, his heart heavy with guilt. “Mom, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have misled you. I was scared, and I didn’t know how to tell you the truth. Cindy did call.”

He explained everything—the challenges he had faced when he came out, the confusion, the pain of hiding, and finally, the relief of being true to himself. He told them about his relationship with Robby, how Robby made him happy, and how he wanted to spend the rest of his life with him.

Each word seemed to sting his parents, but they listened intently, their expressions mixed with hurt and resignation. When Manny had finally said everything, he added, “If you want us to leave, I’ll understand. Robby and I can stay in a hotel in town. I just… I couldn’t keep lying to you.”

There was a heavy silence in the room, broken only by the ticking of the clock on the mantel. Finally, his mom spoke up, her voice trembling but firm.

“Mason, your father and I… we had so many hopes and dreams for you. We imagined you settling down, maybe moving back home, starting a family. But I understand now… that’s not in the cards for you. And it’s not something I can force. You have to live your own life.”

Her voice softened with emotion as she added, "I’m sorry we tried to make you live a lie, to be someone you are not."

Manny looked at his mom, his heart heavy with the weight of her words. He took a deep breath, stepping closer to her. “No, Mom,” he said gently, shaking his head. “You have nothing to be sorry for. I understand... you wanted what was best for me. You were just trying to protect me. I get it now.”

His mom’s eyes shimmered with tears, but before she could say anything more, Manny’s dad, who had been silent until now, cleared his throat and spoke up. “Mason, your mom’s right. But this... this isn’t about us anymore. It’s about you being true to yourself.”

As Manny's dad stood up, his expression was unreadable. Manny and Robby stood as well, unsure of what would happen next. But instead of addressing Manny, his dad turned to Robby.

“Robert,” he began, his voice steady, “do you care for Mason? Are you willing to live a life under the scrutiny of others, under the judgment of society, to be with him? Do you understand that the future will be difficult for both of you?”

Robby met his gaze without hesitation. “Yes, sir. I care for Manny more than anything. I understand the challenges we’ll face, but I’m willing to face them because I love him. I want to spend my life with him, and I hope that you can give us–me your blessing.”

There was a long, uncomfortable pause. Manny held his breath, waiting for his dad’s response. Finally, his father spoke, his voice softer than before.

“If this is what you both want… and I can see in your eyes that it is… then I… we won’t stand in your way.” He paused, glancing at Manny before continuing. “Have you spoken to your family about this, Robert?”

Robby looked at Manny, then back at Manny's Dad. “Not yet, sir. My parents know that I’m uhhh, gay, but they don’t know about Manny. I plan to talk to them when we get back to school.”

Manny’s dad nodded a hint of understanding in his eyes. “It won’t be easy, but this is the life you’ve chosen, you’ll need to be strong—for each other.”

Manny felt a wave of relief wash over him. It wasn’t just the beginning of acceptance—it was real, wholehearted acceptance. His parents might not have fully understood everything, but they had embraced him—and Robby—with open arms, and that was more than he had ever expected.

His mom, her eyes still moist, stood up and walked over to Mason, pulling him into a tight embrace. “I just want you to be happy, Mason,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted.”

Manny hugged her back, feeling the warmth of her acceptance, even if it was tinged with sadness. “I am happy, Mom. Robby makes me happy.”

She pulled back slightly, looking at Robert with a small, tentative smile. “Then that’s all that matters.”

The tension in the room eased, and Manny felt a sense of peace settle over him. There were still challenges ahead, but they had taken the first step, and that was what mattered. They had come home, not just to his parents’ house, but to a place where they could start building a future together.

As they sat down to talk more, the conversation flowed more easily, with Mason’s parents asking Robert about his family, his studies, and his plans for the future. There were still unspoken doubts and fears, but there was also a willingness to accept that their son’s happiness was more important than their expectations.

And for the first time, Manny felt that he could truly be himself—at home, with Robby by his side.

Part 3 - A Bittersweet Farewell

Manny, Robby, and his parents decorated the tree together, starting a new family tradition—one that included Robby. They had brought a few gifts with them from the city and carefully set them beneath the Christmas tree.

Manny was surprised at how easily Robby seemed to fit into their small family, but Robby had a way with people; they instinctively felt comfortable around him.

He always had something to say, and he was incredibly engaging. He brought up topics that surprised Manny, even chatting with his mom in a way that made him pause.

"My parents taught all of us to cook from a young age," Robby said. "Usually, it was just simple stuff, but as we got older, we had to make meals that everyone could eat. But now, with school, I don’t get much of a chance to cook. It’s been a long time since I actually had a home-cooked meal."

Manny had never known that Robby could cook. They’d been so absorbed in their schoolwork that there had never been time to ask about each other’s pasts.

The winter break ended far too soon, but in their short time with Manny’s family, Robby had done the impossible—he had won over Manny’s father. Manny’s mom, on the other hand, had adored him from the start—though she hadn’t shown it right away—and needed no convincing of his sincerity.

While it was clear that Manny’s father wanted his son to be happy, Manny was surprised by how quickly they bonded over the car that Robby had rented. Manny had never known Robby was so into cars, but as Robby explained every inch of the vehicle to his father—talking about displacement, engine size, and mileage—it was as if they had known each other for years.

Manny watched from the porch one afternoon, the cold air nipping at his cheeks, as Robby and his dad stood in the driveway, the hood of the car propped open. His dad, who usually took his time warming up to anyone, was nodding along to Robby’s explanations, even offering a few stories of his own about cars he’d worked on over the years. Like old friends, the sight of them talking so easily filled Manny with a warmth that had nothing to do with the thick sweater he was wearing. He knew then that everything was going to be alright.

Manny was still on the porch, reflecting on the easy way Robby had connected with his dad, when his mom came outside. She smiled at him, a hint of warmth in her expression.

“Dinner’s ready,” she said, her voice lighter than it had been before. “Tell your father and Robby to come inside.”

Manny nodded, his mind still spinning from everything that had happened. As he walked inside, he noticed the subtle shift in the atmosphere—a quiet, almost reverent hum of comfort, like things were just beginning to fall into place.

Walking into the kitchen, Manny was taken aback when his mom changed the usual menu—something that hadn’t been done in years. Tonight, she cooked some of Robby’s favorite foods, dishes Manny had tried for years to get her to make but never succeeded. But here was Robby, effortlessly winning his way into his mom’s heart in ways Manny never thought possible.

Over the past few days, Robby had seamlessly woven himself into the fabric of family life. Manny watched, surprised, as Robby engaged his dad in conversation about everything from cars to old work stories. Normally, Manny’s father kept his distance, not one for small talk, especially with new people. But Robby had a way of drawing him in. Manny’s dad had even laughed at a joke Robby made about a repair project, something he’d never done with anyone outside the family.

As the holiday went on, it was clear how much Robby had become a part of the family—his presence had filled the gaps Manny never knew were there. His mom would joke with Robby about their shared love of cooking, while his dad would quietly listen, nodding along, always just a bit more engaged than usual. The warmth and acceptance that had grown between Robby and Manny’s parents over the break made it even harder to say goodbye.

As the holiday came to a close, Manny and Robby packed their bags and prepared for the trip back to the city. They would have a few days to settle in before the new semester began, but the thought of leaving the comfort of home and the acceptance they had found there weighed heavily on them both.

On the morning of their departure, the atmosphere in the house was a mix of bittersweet emotions. Manny’s mom fussed over them as they loaded their bags into the car, reminding them to call when they arrived and to take care of each other. His dad stood back, his usual stoic expression in place, but there was a softness in his eyes that Manny hadn’t seen before.

“I guess it’s time to go,” Manny said, his voice softer now, as if reluctant to break the quiet warmth of the moment. He glanced at Robby, his heart full, unsure of how to follow up such a meaningful exchange.

Robby held the gift in his hands, his eyes lingering on it for a moment before meeting Manny’s gaze. A small, genuine smile spread across his face, the warmth in his expression speaking volumes.

The words lingered in the air between them, heavy with unspoken emotion. As they stood there, Manny realized that, for the first time, he wasn’t just saying goodbye to his family—he was walking into a future where Robby was an undeniable part of it.

Just before they were about to leave, Manny’s dad stepped forward, pulling Manny into a firm but tender hug. “You’re always welcome here, son,” he said quietly, his voice thick with emotion. “Both of you. Come and visit often.”

Manny hugged him back, feeling the weight of his father’s words and the unspoken acceptance beneath them. “We will, Dad. Thank you.”

His dad pulled back and gave him a slight nod, then turned to Robby. “Take care of each other, Robby,” he said, his tone more gruff now, as if trying to mask the emotions he was feeling. “And remember, you’ve got a place here too.”

Robby, who had been uncharacteristically quiet during the farewell, nodded solemnly. “Thank you, sir. That means a lot.”

Manny’s mom was next, and she wasted no time pulling Robby into a warm embrace, brushing away a few stray hairs from his face as she did. “You take care of yourself, Robby,” she said, her voice gentle but firm. “And take care of Manny. He has a habit of losing himself in his books, and you might have to pull him back into reality every now and then.”

Robby chuckled softly, the tension in his shoulders easing as he returned her hug. “I’ll do my best, ma’am. I promise.”

Manny’s mom then turned to him, her eyes filled with pride and concern. “And you,” she said, giving him a playful but stern look, “you make sure to take care of Robby. I don’t want to hear any complaints from either of you. Work together, talk things out, and resolve any issues you have. You’re in this together now.”

Manny nodded, his throat tight with emotion. “We will, Mom. I promise.”

With one last round of hugs and goodbyes, Manny and Robby climbed into the car. As they pulled out of the driveway, Manny glanced back at the house, his parents standing on the porch, waving until they were out of sight. The weight of the moment settled over him—a mix of sadness at leaving and hope for what lay ahead.

The drive back to the city was initially quiet, and both were lost in their thoughts. But as the miles passed, the tension slowly eased, replaced by a sense of peace. They had taken a big step together, and while there were still challenges ahead, they had the support of Manny’s parents, something Manny had once thought impossible.

As the city skyline came into view, Manny reached over and took Robby’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Thank you for coming with me,” he said softly. “I couldn’t have done this without you.”

Robby squeezed his hand back, a small smile playing on his lips. “I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. We’re in this together, Manny. And whatever comes next, we’ll face it side by side.”

Manny smiled, feeling a deep sense of contentment settle over him. The winter break had been more than just a holiday—another turning point in their relationship, a time of growth and acceptance that brought them closer. As they drove into the city, ready to face the challenges of their final year, Manny knew that they were stronger than ever.

Together, they were ready for whatever the future held.

Part 4 - Home Again, Home Again...

Several weeks after the semester started, Robby spoke with Manny about introducing him to his parents.

“I think it’s time,” Robby said, his voice quiet but determined. “I want you to meet my parents.”

Manny paused, his heart beating a little faster. He had always hoped this moment would come, and now that it had, he felt a mix of excitement and anticipation. He thought about how well Robby had meshed with his own family—if it had gone smoothly with them, why wouldn’t it go the same way with Robby’s family? After a beat, Manny nodded with a smile.

“I’m ready for it, Robby.”

Robby’s expression softened, but there was a hint of apprehension in his eyes. “But you know, this probably won’t go as smoothly. They don’t really get it. They might not understand us. But remember this: I’ll be with you. You won’t be alone.”

Manny’s smile remained steady, but he could hear the concern in Robby’s voice. He placed a reassuring hand on Robby’s arm. “It’ll be fine, Robby. They’ll come around. We’ve got this.”

There was a brief pause as Robby looked at him, trying to gauge Manny’s sincerity. Manny’s optimism was enough to ease some of Robby’s doubt. Robby returned the smile, though it was small, and they shared a brief look of mutual understanding. This wasn’t going to be easy, but Manny was confident that it was a step worth taking.

The drive to Robby’s home was long and quiet, with the occasional hum of the road beneath them. Manny stared out the window, letting the familiar scenery of the passing trees and streets calm his nerves. He couldn’t help but feel hopeful. If things had gone well with his own parents, why wouldn’t they with Robby’s? They had already made it through so much together—this would just be another chapter in their story.

Robby glanced at him, noticing the determined look in Manny’s eyes. “You okay?” he asked, his voice soft.

Manny turned to Robby with a smile, though a small wave of nervousness still lingered in his chest. “Yeah, I’m good. Just… ready to meet them. I think it’s going to be fine.”

The silence between them wasn’t uncomfortable—it was a quiet kind of solidarity, like both of them were mentally preparing for what was to come. The drive continued, and Manny felt a sense of calm settling over him as they neared Robby’s hometown. He was ready for whatever came next.

“Almost there,” Robby said, his voice slightly tighter than usual. Manny noticed the tension in Robby’s posture, but his optimism hadn’t wavered. “It’s just… meeting parents,” Manny thought, but knew it was a big deal.

Still, Manny felt a glimmer of hope in the air. After everything they had been through, there was no reason to think this wouldn’t go as well as it had with his own family. He was ready.

As they pulled up the long driveway, Manny couldn’t help but notice the sprawling grounds. The manicured lawns stretched out on either side, and the house itself—imposing and pristine—stood proudly at the end. It was the kind of place that reflected wealth and status, every detail flawless. Manny swallowed hard, suddenly feeling the weight of it all. This was Robby’s world, a place that was so different from the one he knew. His own family’s home had always been cozy and lived-in; Robby’s was polished, perfect—almost too perfect.

They got out of the car and walked up the pathway toward the large, imposing home. Manny couldn’t help but notice how the house seemed to tower over him, its grandeur contrasting sharply with the more modest warmth of his own family’s home.

Manny stood beside Robby at the threshold, feeling a nervous flutter in his chest, but also a quiet sense of anticipation. Robby turned to him, his expression serious. “Manny, are you ready for this?” he asked, his voice a mix of concern and resolve. “It’s going to be tough, but I’m with you every step of the way.”

Manny nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips despite the nerves. “Yeah,” he said, his voice steady, though his heart raced a little. “I’m ready. We’ve got this.”

The words felt like a promise. Manny took a deep breath, steadying himself. He was nervous, yes, but he had a feeling—no matter what, it was going to be okay.

As Robby opened the door, the coldness of the house seemed to seep into him, the tension hung in the air. Robby had called his parents ahead of time—he’d told them he was coming over, that he needed to talk, and that he would be bringing a friend. The reception on the phone had been cold, distant. Robby had warned Manny to brace for the worst, but nothing could have prepared him for the icy, unwelcoming atmosphere that awaited them.

Robby stepped inside, calling out. Only his mother answered, her voice distant and curt as she told them they were in the living room. The house felt unnaturally quiet. Normally, the noise of Robby’s brothers and sisters would fill the space, but today, even they had been sent away, leaving only the oppressive silence behind.

Robby noticed the little things as he and Manny walked into the living room. The pictures on the wall had been rearranged, some familiar faces missing, replaced by others. The mantle held new objects—objects that didn’t quite belong. The familiar family photo, once a fixture, was nowhere to be seen. The fireplace, was burning and it brought Robby back to a childhood memory...

Robby stared at the flickering flames, and for a moment, he was transported back to his childhood. He remembered his parents sitting by a similar fire, their voices low and quiet as they talked about their hopes for him. Back then, it had always felt so warm, comforting, a place where everything felt secure. But it wasn’t until later that he realized the distance that existed between them—the unspoken expectations, the things they never said but he knew were there. Now, standing here with Manny, everything felt different. His heart ached with the weight of it all, the contrast between what he had known and the possibility of something more.

Robby’s parents were sitting stiffly on the couch. Their faces were hard, a mix of disapproval and barely concealed anger. The room, once filled with the warmth of Robby’s childhood, now felt like a battlefield—a place where love had once flourished but now lay buried beneath layers of tension and unresolved conflict.

Before Robby could say anything, his father’s voice cut through the silence, low and controlled, but there was no mistaking the fury beneath his words. “We need to talk,” he said, his gaze cold as it flicked between Robby and Manny. “About this… situation.”

Robby glanced at Manny, who gave him a small, reassuring nod. Steeling himself, Robby took Manny’s hand in his own. “There’s nothing to talk about. I love Manny, and I’m going to be with him. We came here to tell you that we’re together, and that’s not changing.”

His mother’s eyes flicked to their joined hands, her lips pressing into a thin line. “This… this isn’t right, Robby. You’re throwing your life away for a—”

“Don’t say it,” Robby interrupted, his voice sharp and filled with anger. “Don’t you dare finish that sentence.”

Robby had rarely spoken back to his parents, but this was different. This was about defending his boyfriend, his partner—and maybe someday, his husband. He wouldn’t tolerate anyone, not even his parents, mistreating the man he loved.

“Robby!” his father yelled.

His father leaned forward, eyes blazing with a mix of frustration and determination. “You need to listen to us, Robby. This is just a phase. You’ve always been a smart kid, but you’re making a huge mistake. We’ll see you through school, pay for everything—whatever you need, even after graduation. But you have to end this nonsense. You need to leave this... this boy behind and forget all about this idea of getting married.” A sharp, unmistakable tinge of disgust laced his voice.

The talk of marriage stunned Manny, they had never talked about it.

Robby’s grip on Manny’s hand tightened as he felt the insult cut through the air. He saw the hurt flash across Manny’s face, and something in him snapped.

“You can insult me all you want,” Robby said, his voice trembling with controlled rage, “but you do not get to insult Manny. He’s a better person than either of you could ever hope to be. His family accepted me—why can’t you? And if you think for one second that I’m going to abandon him, then you don’t know me at all.”

He paused, his chest rising and falling with each breath, as the silence between them grew heavy. “I’m not asking for your approval, but I won’t stand by and let you treat him this way. He’s my partner, and I love him. And if that’s not something you can accept, then I guess we’re done here.”

His mother’s eyes filled with tears, but they were tears of frustration, not understanding. “Robby, we’re trying to save you. This… this isn’t who you are.”

“This is exactly who I am!” Robby shot back. “And if you can’t accept that, if you can’t accept Manny, then maybe I don’t want anything from you. I’m done hiding, and I’m done pretending to be someone I’m not. I love him, and I’m going to marry him, whether you like it or not.”

The silence that followed was thick with unspoken words, the finality of Robby’s declaration hanging in the air. His parents exchanged a look, their faces hardening with resolve.

“Then you’re on your own,” his father said coldly. “Finish school, and after that… you’re on your own. You and him figure it out.”

Manny’s heart sank, but Robby’s defiance didn’t waver. He stood tall, his hand still firmly holding Manny’s, as if drawing strength from their connection.

“Fine,” Robby said, his voice steady. “If that’s how it has to be, then so be it. But don’t ever think I’ll regret this decision. I love Manny, and he’s my family now.”

Without another word, Robby turned and led Manny out of the house, the door closing behind them with a sense of finality. They walked to the car in silence, the weight of what had just happened settling in.

As they drove away, Manny glanced at Robby, his heart aching for him. “Robby… I’m so sorry.”

Robby shook his head, a mixture of sadness and determination in his eyes. “Don’t be. They made their choice, and I made mine. I’d rather lose them than lose you.”

Manny reached out, taking Robby’s hand in his, the gesture a silent promise of unwavering support.

Robby never spoke of his parents again. He showed no outward emotion, but was that silence a cry for help? I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of internal turmoil he was going through. He had stood so firm, so confident in his responses to his parents, laying out the path for his life with such certainty. But knowing Robby, who so rarely expressed his feelings, I had no idea what he was really going through.

In the weeks ahead, would he open up about what happened? Or would this become one more thing he buried deep inside? I wasn’t even sure if I should ask him. The weight of his silence hung between us, and I didn’t know whether to give him space or try to break through his walls.

Together, they drove away from the past, ready to face whatever came next—together.