After running into Drew at the bookstore about two months ago, we went out for coffee. And, after coffee we went for dinner. And, after dinner we came back to Drew's place and fell into bed.

The next morning, I woke up to blonde hair tickling my nose and sunlight streaming through the window. I could hear Drew's steady breathing and I could feel a small puddle of drool on my chest. It was perfect. I was right where I wanted to be, with Drew. That was the first time I had woken up with him in my arms. Before, I always had to get back to Sheila's.

XXXXXXXXXX

That was about two months ago and we are, miraculously, still together. Things have been good. I've finally gotten used to this whole relationship thing. Drew's been hinting that he wants us to move in together. Well, to be more exact, he wants me to move into his place. I'm not sure that would be for the best. I mean I want to be with him and spend as much time as I can with him. But, I don't know. I really don't want to fuck this up. That month or so without him was a taste of what it would be like to live without him. It definitely wasn't pretty.

A lot of things have been going on in the past week or so. Drew is currently trying to set up a viewing of his new collection of photography. Once he gets his show set up, he's positive his family will come to see it. Apparently, his parents are very conservative and Drew still hasn't managed to come out to them. His little sister knows that he's gay but his parents haven't a clue. He figures now will be the perfect time to come out since he's in a "serious relationship." I told him he didn't have to do it for me but he wouldn't hear of it. I'd be more than happy to skip out on dinner with the "in-laws," but I think it's another way for Drew to prove that we're ready to live together.

While Drew has been working on his photography, I've been sending some of my writing out to independent magazines. I'm hoping to get some kind of response within the next month. I don't think I want to work for a publication. But, it would be nice to get paid once in awhile for all the writing I've been doing lately.

After our two month anniversary, I finally gathered the courage and called my mother to tell her that I'm with someone. She immediately started mumbling about a "vaca gorda." I quickly reminded her that I broke up with Sheila months ago.

I came out to my mother years ago about being bisexual. She accepted it and me, but I know she always held on to the hope that I would end up with a woman.

I told her I'm with a man, and there was silence on the other end, then a deep breath, and then "What's his name?" And just like that everything was fine. She's decided that she's got to meet this "new boy." She's coming down in a month to decide if this "new boy" is good enough her baby. Man, has she got that twisted. If she only knew half the things I've done. Drew's a fucking saint compared to me.

With Drew's show, me meeting his family, my possible publishing, and my mother coming down to visit us, this next month is going to be full of excitement.

It seems like it's been forever since we've seen eachother, but in reality it's only been a few days. I've been busy writing and getting some pieces ready to submit to a couple different literary magazines. Last week Drew finished his latest collection of photography and he's frantic about getting a show.

His agent and good friend, "Kellee, two Es no Y," (such a bitch) has been at his apartment almost everyday for the last week. One reason I'm so happy to have my own place, no unexpected "friendly" visits.

As soon as I walk into his apartment, my ears are assaulted by the sound of "Kellee, two Es no Y" talking on the phone. I'm about two seconds from just turning around and leaving when Drew comes up to me. He puts his arms around my neck and leans in to give me a kiss - a long, slow, wet kiss. My hands are on his waist and slowly moving down towards his ass. Just as I start thinking about all the things I'm going to do to him in a few seconds, I hear that bitch.

"What the fuck Jesus. Can't you keep your hands to yourself when you have company?" See, she's a cunt.

"I don't have company. And you can get the fuck out."

"Be nice, baby." For Drew's sake, I keep my mouth shut and head to the bedroom. I take off my jacket and am in the process of removing my shoes when Drew walks in. I turn my back to hang my jacket in the closet and his arms slide around my waist.

"I'm sorry baby," he whispers in my ear. I turn around to face him, putting my hands on his hips and give him a quick peck on his very soft, very inviting lips.

"No need to be sorry. I'm being an ass. It's just I haven't seen you in couple days and I thought we would be alone tonight. How long is Kellee going to be here?"

"Well, if you wouldn't mind, we're planning on going out to dinner and I want you to come. She'll probably go home from the restaurant." He looks at me with pleading, wide eyes.

"Do I really need to be there?" I ask, already knowing that I'll end up doing whatever Drew wants.

"Please baby. I really want you there."

I pull out of his arms and reach for my shoes. The things I do for this man. This is going to be pure torture. Listening to Kellee talk for an entire night is not my idea of good time.

XXXXXXXXXX

We end up going to some Thai restaurant. I hate Thai. "Kellee two Es no Y" picked out the restaurant. She's such a bitch, Drew doesn't even like Thai. So, we're sitting at the table and Kellee's going on about her boyfriend drama.

"So, what the fuck's up with the show?"

"Baby," Drew admonishes. Kellee adjusts her glasses, glares at me, and returns her attention back to Drew.

"Well, there are three galleries willing to show your work. Gallery #1 is doing a young artists show. There will be nine other artists in the show. Gallery #2 is willing to show you're work with another more well-known artist. And, the one I suggest you do, Almont Gallery is willing to give you a solo show. I think you should go for it." Finally, something the bitch and I agree on. Drew looks hesitant.

"I don't know. Can I even carry my own show?"

"Drew, you're work is excellent. You can do this." I really look at him to make sure he's listening. This is a perfect opportunity for his career. I can see him mentally debating whether he should do it before he looks at Kellee.

"Sure let's do it."

"Great! You have an appointment tomorrow morning with the gallery owner." He spends a few minutes pretending to be outraged that Kellee assumed he would do the show and after a few moments they're back to talking about Kellee's new boyfriend. Two excruciatingly long hours later, we leave with plans for Drew and I to go to the gallery tomorrow morning.

XXXXXXXXXX

I wake up to the loud alarm, Drew's arm around my waist, and puddle of drool on my chest once again. The alarm is next to Drew and it doesn't look like he's waking up anytime soon. He sleeps like the dead. I push him off of me and reach over to turn off the alarm. The only reaction he has to the disruption is a sleepy "baby" and his arms reaching for me again.

"Drew," I say tickling his side, effectively waking him up. His hands try to slap mine away. He burrows further under the covers, just his face exposed.

"Drew, wake up." His eyes slowly open.

"No." He says defiantly with a small pout and burrows completely under the covers. Sometimes I swear I'm dating a ten year old. I pull the covers away from his face and whisper in his ear.

"Please wake up. I'll make it worth your while. Both of us in a nice hot shower." I pause to kiss his lips. Before I can pull away he deepens it and our tongues are in each others mouth. I finally manage to pull away. "If you get up right now, I'll do whatever you want to that sexy little body of yours." Before I can get out another word, Drew is out of the bed, in the bathroom with the shower running.

"Hurry up!"

XXXXXXXXXX

We actually arrive at the gallery on time, despite our little foray in the shower. The girl at the front desk directs Drew to the back office of the owner. I stay behind in the gallery and walk around to look at the work. I actually didn't want to come here today. I didn't want to intrude. This is Drew's thing. But, he was quick to point out that this is an important step in his career and he wanted me by his side the entire time.

Just think, a few months ago, I couldn't admit we were a couple and now we're sharing something as big as his show. I think part of his reason for having me be so involved in this show is to prove to me that we're on solid ground, considering the main reason I don't want to move in is a fear that it could all fall apart once we're together 24/7.

I'm lost in my thoughts when Drew returns with the gallery owner.

"Lisa, this is my boyfriend Jesus Gonzalez." I reach to shake the petite brunette's hand. "Baby, this is the gallery owner, Lisa Petrie."

"It's nice to meet you Jesus."

"Likewise, Lisa." See, I can be polite.

"I was just telling Drew that I actually won't be the one to handle all the details of his show. The gallery manager, Paul Anderson will be handling everything. Drew's meeting him sometime next week." She looks at her watch. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to run to another meeting. It was nice meeting you Jesus and I'm looking forward to your show Drew." And with that she walks back to her office.

"It looks like you have a busy week ahead."

"We have a busy week. I want you to meet Mr. Anderson with me."

"Why the fu--"

"Baby," Drew interrupts with the whispered plea.

Why the fuck do I even try?

"Drew, I need to go." His arm tightens around my waist as he rolls closer to nuzzle his face into my neck, unconsciously pressing his lips to my shoulder.

"I don't want you to." He's still half asleep.

"I spent the last three nights here. I have to go home at some point." I whisper in his ear. He rolls away from me, now completely awake.

"You wouldn't have to leave me if you lived here." And, although his back is facing me, I know he's pouting.

"But, I don't."

"I know that. You've made it very clear Jesus that you don't want to live with me." I put my hand on his shoulder and pull him towards me, so he's lying on his back and facing me.

"Drew, you know that's not true. We've only been dating for two months and I want this to work, I really do. But, it's just too soon for us to live together. You understand, don't you?"

"Yeah, I do." I lean over him and when I look into his eyes, I know he's lying. But, I'm quickly getting tired of this conversation and I don't want to spend the time clarifying what I mean. And, there's really no other way I can explain it to him. "You know I love you, Jesus," he states it reassuringly, as if my doubt of his love is the reason I don't want to move in. I already know Drew loves me, and I'm pretty sure I love him, even if I haven't been able to say the words. I know he's been waiting for me to tell him how I feel about him, but I'm just not ready to yet. Instead, I lean down to kiss him and put everything I have into that kiss, showing him exactly how I feel. When I pull away his blue eyes are focused on mine, and I can only hope he got the message. "I better go."

"Yeah, okay."

"I'll see you tomorrow, right?"

"Sure." I get dressed and leave the room, closing the door softly behind me. I pad through the apartment and quietly slip out. As I'm driving home I can't help but think about our situation.

I'm not a relationship kind of person. And, definitely not a monogamy type of person. If I moved in with Drew, I'd be giving up the freedom to be with whoever I want, whenever I want. Although, truth is, I haven't been with anyone else since Drew and I started dating. But he doesn't know that; we haven't really discussed it. When I was with Sheila and kind of with Drew, there were still several times I was with other people. I really didn't care about Sheila and I didn't consider myself in a relationship with Drew. Moving in with him would be making a promise to keep my dick in my pants and, in all practicality, I know that being monogamous, especially with Drew wouldn't be that hard to do. It's just a very big commitment to make.

The fact that I've lived with lovers before doesn't help ease Drew's frustration. I basically moved in with Shelia the same day I met her. I've known Drew for...fuck...it's been half a year. I can't believe it's been that long. I can see why Drew might be a little anxious. We've known eachother for six months and I haven't even considered moving in with him until recently. And, that was really the result of his persistence.

As I walk into my empty apartment, I have to question exactly what I'm doing. I just left a warm blonde in a cozy bed in a nice apartment to be alone in this shithole. I shake my head, in attempt to clear my mind and undress before climbing in bed.

XXXXXXXXXX

I wake up early, well early for me. It's a little after 10:00am. Drew and I are scheduled to meet Paul Anderson later today and I figure I have a few hours to work before I head over to the gallery. I start a pot of coffee, grab a shower and get dressed. After pouring a cup, I head into my office, which is really just an old card table and lawn chair placed in a corner of the living room. But for the next few hours, I'll call it my office.

I've just finished three really solid short stories. They're all fictional, but are somewhat based on my own life. Two are kind of based on my teenage years as a young Lothario. Unlike those two, the third one is more true than false. It's based on the very beginning of my relationship with Drew - the other woman, the denial, the reform, etc, etc. I'm sending all three to several different publishing companies. But, I think I have the best chance with this one based in Chicago that focuses on anthologies. I just need to write a synopsis for each before I send them out.

I finish editing one that I wrote yesterday and write a draft for another synopsis before I look at the clock and realize I was supposed to be at the gallery twenty minutes ago.

XXXXXXXXXX

I walk into the building, not exactly looking forward to facing an angry blonde. Drew's on the other side of the gallery talking with a tall brunet. I walk over and greet Drew with a kiss on the cheek and by his glare I'm guessing he's a little angry.

"Sorry, I'm late." His expression softens a bit at the apology.

"It's okay. Baby this is Mr. Anderson."

"Drew, call me Paul."

"Right," Drew grins and blushes before continuing, "Paul this is my boyfriend Jesus Gonzalez." Paul's shocked expression tells me that he wasn't aware that Drew had a boyfriend. The shock leaves his face as he takes my hand to shake.

"It's nice to meet you Jesus." I'm not at all surprised by his insincere tone.

"Likewise." We spend an hour or so in the gallery. Paul and Drew talk about the upcoming show and every once in awhile Drew tries to bring me into the conversation. But, Paul redirects it, effectively cutting me out. It's not extremely unusual for one of us to be hit on in the other's presence. But, usually if we say we're together, people back off. Drew seems oblivious to the fact that this guy wants in his pants. I've told him before that he is far too trusting. His response is always "you're just jealous baby," which could be a possibility.

But I'd never tell him that.

While we're at the gallery, I pretty much ignore Paul's actions and attitude. This is business, Drew's business. I figure I can at least be civil for one afternoon. When we're done, Drew and I walk back to our cars. And, now that we're alone, I can tell he's still a little upset. Whether it's about me being late or our discussion last night I can't be sure.

"Drew, I'm sorry I was late."

"Why were you?"

"Working, I lost track of time."

"I understand." He pauses and I know he wants to tell me something. "My parents called this morning." I'm sure this is what's been weighing so heavily on his mind.

"How did that go?"

"It was okay; they were just telling me that they're definitely coming up for the show. I don't know...I'm still kind of nervous about telling them about us. But, it's time, right?"

"Drew, you know you don't have to do this for me. I don't care either way."

"I know. But we're together now, and we're going to be together for a long time, right?" His hand finds mine and our fingers interlace. I nod in response.

"Right."

"Well, then they should know." I use our joined hands to pull him to me so his weight settles on my body. My arms wrap around his waist and he gives me a quick kiss, before dropping his forehead to my shoulder and mumbling into my tee-shirt. "They're gonna flip." From what I've heard about his parents, especially his mom, I have to agree. They are definitely going to freak out. I just hope they don't hurt Drew in the process.

Drew's show is in a few days and things have been a little tense. He's freaking out in a major way, and nothing I do seems to alleviate the stress. Well, there is one thing but we can't very well do that all day and definitely not in public.

We had made plans to hang out tonight. I'm kind of hesitant to walk into the apartment though. It seems like everyday I'm talking him off a ledge.

I open the door and my ears are immediately assaulted by a frantic-sounding Drew. He's pacing back and forth in the living room talking on a phone. I sit down on the couch and try to piece together his conversation. After a few minutes and catching the word "lost" repeatedly, I've gathered that one of his pieces has gone missing.

I pick up a magazine from the coffee table and flip through it. Drew likes to keep the latest issue of Cosmo in his apartment at all times, for what reason I have no idea, but it probably has something to do with all the sex articles, perhaps 10 Ways to Please Your Man, which is what I'm looking over when Drew finally hangs up the phone. He ungracefully falls onto the seat next me.

"Hey, baby. How's your day?" He sounds so depressed that I can't help but do my best to comfort him. I put my arm around him and he moves closer, resting his head against my shoulder.

"I'm fine. What about you? What's going on?"

"Alex says one of my pieces has been lost. It's an important piece. I've based the entire show around this one piece, Jesus. I can't do the show without it." I can hear the panic seep into his voice. I rub his arm lightly, trying ground him.

"Drew, it'll be okay. Everything's going to be fine. Deep breaths." He takes a few steadying breaths before continuing.

"I have to go to the gallery. Paul wants me there."

I can guess exactly why Paul wants him there and it's not to help him find the missing artwork.

"You can't do much more there than you can do from here, Drew." He looks at me in that way, and I know I won't be able to change his mind. "But I know you're worried about it. How long do you think you'll be?" I try to say it with a smile and in a positive tone so he knows that I'm okay with him bailing on our plans.

"It should only be a couple of hours. We'll have plenty of time to do whatever you had planned for tonight." He pulls out of my arms to stand up.

"Yeah, that'll work." Drew's already putting on his shoes.

"I'll make sure to call if I'm gonna be any later." He leans down to kiss me before walking out of the door.

XXXXXXXXXX

I sit on the couch waiting for Drew to come home. He's already been gone for four hours. I've tried calling his cell a few times, but it went straight to voicemail. I try not to let myself think about it too much. Drew probably just lost track of time and forgot to turn on his phone like he's sometimes apt to do.

But I can't stop myself from thinking about how Paul looks at Drew every time they're in a room together. Or how they seem to have grown a lot closer in the past month or so. Yeah, I can't let myself think about that...

But Drew promised he would call, he fucking promised. Instead he's doing god knows what with that fucking idiot Paul. And I know I'm getting irrationally angry because I know Drew wouldn't cheat on me. I know that. But...

I make the decision to leave because I know that if Drew walks through that door we'll end up having an argument because I'm just too angry.

So I go home, undress, and crawl into bed, knowing that Drew will probably call tomorrow apologizing.

XXXXXXXXXX

Drew doesn't call. He doesn't apologize. And we don't talk for two days.

XXXXXXXXXX

It's the night before the show when I go to Drew's place. We had made plans a couple of weeks ago to have dinner at our favorite restaurant to take his mind off the whole thing so he would get a chance to relax.

I don't bother knocking on the door before I use my key to enter and imagine my surprise when I see Drew dressed down in a pair of sweats and a t-shirt, cooking what looks to be dinner and Paul sitting on a stool at the kitchen island. And the whole scene is just so fucking domestic that I feel like an intruder.

"What are you doing here, baby?" I walk over to him and he kisses me on the cheek. I really can't believe he forgot.

"Umm, nothing. Nothing at all. I was just wondering if you had any plans tonight."

"Oh, well Paul and I were working on some stuff earlier today and we were just gonna eat some dinner. You can stay if you want." I can stay if I want. I look over at Paul and he looks more than pleased with himself.

"Um, no, that's okay. Are we still on for tomorrow morning?" And a small part of me, the insecure part of me, is so sure he's gonna say he already has plans with Paul.

"Of course. Are you sure you don't want to stay tonight?"

"Uh, no that's alright. I'll see you tomorrow." I turn around and leave before he has a chance to say anything else.

So I end up at home alone, again. And my mind is filled with thoughts of Drew and Paul. Who knows what had Drew out to all hours of the night a couple of days ago. And today I go to his place to find him and Paul acting like some kind of married couple - Drew in the kitchen, Paul watching him cook and Drew completely forgetting about our plans and his promises. I don't know what to think.

The thought never crossed my mind that Drew would cheat on me. But it's not like we have any definite rules in place. So, even if he were to date Paul, I can't really call that cheating, can I? But it's a moot point.

Because Drew isn't seeing Paul. They're just working together, spending time together.

I have to believe that.

To say Drew is eager to see me when I arrive this morning would be putting it lightly. As soon as I step through the door, he's dragging me to the bedroom. I dig my heels in.

"Drew, Drew, stop." He turns back to me with a questioning gaze and a frown on his face. "I haven't really seen you in a few days. Don't--"

"I know. I've missed you too." He takes a step closer, his body pressed against mine, and lifts his head to kiss me. I had every intention of going there and talking to Drew about forgetting our plans the night before, but Drew is Drew, and his lips can be very distracting. Before I really know what was happening, we're both in his bed with our shirts off and his hand is reaching for my belt buckle. Just as he's pulling my belt off, I hear the front door open. Drew hears it too.

"Andy! Mom and Dad are gonna be here soon. They're riding the elevator up."

"Fuck, fuck." Drew mumbles under his breath before shouting toward the other room. "Caroline, is that you?" He rolls away from me to get out of bed. He grabs my shirt from the floor and tosses it to me.

"Yeah it's me. Hurry up." I pull on my shirt and look at Drew. He's still looking for his shirt.

"I think it's on the living room floor."

"Looking for this?" I look toward the doorway to see a short, strawberry blond standing in the archway holding Drew's previously discarded shirt with a smile on her face. She tosss it to Drew. "Don't forget to fix your hair too." She walks over to me. "Hi, you must be Jesus. You got another name I could call you?" Her accent was a lot thicker than Drew's.

"Your brother calls me 'baby.'" She laughs.

"How about a middle name?"

"Pedro."

"Well, nice to meet you, Pedro."

"Andrew! Where are you, dear?" I look at Drew. He has his shirt on, and I can tell he had run his fingers through his hair and pulled it back again.

"Ready?"

"Yeah, yeah." It sounds like he's trying to psych himself up. How bad could they be? All three of us walk out of the bedroom, Caroline leading the way.

"What were you three doing in the bedroom?" Mrs. Grey's face is pinched with disapproval and displeasure. Something that I'm sure is a common occurrence.

"They were just giving me the grand tour, Mom."

"Is that right? And who is this, Andrew?"

"Mother," his voice holds a clear edge, "this is my good friend, Jesús Gonzalez." A quiet scoff brings my attention to Caroline, and I manage to catch the tail end of an eye roll. "Jesús, I'd like you to meet my parents, Louise and Anthony Grey."

"Nice to meet you, Jesús."

"Likewise, sir."

"What is he doing here, Andrew?" Okay, clearly that woman is a racist bitch or something. I'm standing right in front of her...and I need to get out of here before I say something that might hurt Drew in the long run.

"Actually I was just heading out to run a few errands. I'll be back here at six for the show, Drew, okay?"

"Yeah, okay."

"Bye, Pedro!" I think I like his sister. The dad isn't half bad either. But that mother...I didn't know how Drew handled that as a kid.

I really don't have any errands to do. I'm not an errands type of guy, that's usually Drew's forte. But I do have a call to make. I sent in all my pieces of writing a few days ago, overnight mail. The anthology publisher in Chicago said they usually have about a week turnover. I know the week isn't completely over, but I'm impatient, very impatient.

"Hi, Ms. Sarah Brown. This is Jesús Gonzalez. I submitted a couple of stories a few days ago and I was just calling to see if you had made any decisions. If you could give me a call back, I'd really appreciate it. My number's 412-555-9834. Thanks."

XXXXXXXXXX

I get to Drew's place a half an hour early. I was counting on his family being gone, so we could get a little alone time. The first thing I see when I walked in was Drew, all dressed, sitting on the couch facing the door. I take a seat next to him.

"So how was your visit with the family?"

"I don't even--" Drew's interrupted by the sound of my phone ringing.

"Hello?"

"Jesus." It's my mother. She'a been calling off and on for the past two weeks trying to pin down a time she could come to visit and meet Drew. I've been putting her off. "You better have a date for me."

"Mama, it isn't a good time. Drew's busy. He has this show. I promise I'll--"

"Jesús Pedro Hernandez Gonzalez, put Drew on the phone right now. I know he's there." I pull the phone away, staring at it. How the fuck did she know? I put it back to my ear.

"How did you know?"

"I didn't, now put him on."

"My mother wants to speak with you." I hand the phone to Drew and listen to his half of the conversation. "Yes Ms. Gonzalez. Okay, Ms. Gonzalez. Of course I have time for you to visit, Ms. Gonzalez. I don't know why Jesús told you that. Yes, yes, of course. Okay, I'll see you in a few days." Drew snapped the phone closed and handed it to me.

"Why did you tell your mother there was no time for her to visit us? Did you not want her to meet me?"

"No, Drew. You know it's not like that. I wanted these past few weeks to be all about you. You're already dealing with the show. The last thing you need on top of that is my mother. Believe me."

"Yeah, I have been pretty stressed lately. Actually there's something else that has been bugging me for awhile. Something that I've been thinking about. Something that I need to tell you, ask you."

"Yeah?"

"I love you, Jesus. And we've been together for awhile now. And I know we've talked about this before, but I don't think I've just straight out asked you, so I'm asking you now. Will you move in with me?" Talk about being blindsided. Just as I'm about to start what will most likely be a long-winded response, Drew's family walks in.

Saved by the bell.

I don't know how Drew made it through his childhood with Louise Grey as his mother. I've known her for less than twenty-four hours and already I can't stand the woman. She actually had the nerve to start an argument over which car Drew would ride to the gallery in. Drew's twenty-four years old. He lives halfway across the country from her, and she's still trying to make decisions for him. He isn't a kid anymore, and I don't think she's realized that yet.

Drew ended up riding to the gallery with me. He had a few last-minute details to take care of with Paul before the show and needed to be early. When we arrived he headed straight for Paul's office, and I started to look around. Almont Gallery is in what used to be a small apartment building downtown. It was bought about three years ago and remodeled. The first two floors each have two small rooms with seating, and the top floor was turned into a loft-like space. The entire effect is like walking through someone's house.

On the walls of the front room hang pictures of Drew's apartment building and neighborhood. Drew lives in a bad neighborhood in the midst of gentrification. There are photographs of boarded up buildings next to luxury condos. The second room is filled with images of the people from his neighborhood. There are artists, drug dealers and middle-aged women walking their dogs.

I take the stairs to the second floor. These two rooms have pictures of Drew's friends and family. I knew he had gone down south to visit his family a few months ago. There are several photographs of Caroline and his father, in addition to photos of the house and the land they own. His mother is only in one photo. He had snapped a photo of the entire family giving grace at the dinner table. I'm sure she was pissed.

I walk into the last room and discover that Drew doesn't have a subtle bone in his body. He wanted to come out to his family, and I can't think of a more...visual way to do it. This room is filled with pictures of me, of us. Well, none of them are complete portraits, but if you know us, then you'd know these were photographs of us. Drew always has his camera with him. If it's not around his neck, then it's in his hand. He's always snapping pictures. I never thought anything of it. That's just...Drew. I had no idea that half those pictures would end up on display in some gallery.

"Hey there, cowboy." Drew's family must have arrived. I turn around and watch Caroline's reaction to the room.

"Holy..." She blinks and looks back to me. "You two make a nice couple." She tears her eyes from the walls again, "Drew's freaking out about something downstairs. You might want to go down and try to calm him down." She looks back at the artwork. "I'll go down with you. I think I'm gonna try to keep mom from coming up here."

"That might be for the best." I know Drew's ready to come out to his parents and everything, but even Drew's mom deserves to hear it from him rather than thrown in her face in public.

I walk downstairs and can see what Caroline was talking about. Drew's standing near the doors, and I can see the tension running through his body.

"Hey." I want to touch him, but a glance to my right tells me that his mother is watching us like a hawk.

"Hey." He gives me an awkward half-wave that's kind of adorable.

"Let's go to the bar, get a couple of drinks, and go to the second floor and relax a bit before the first few people start coming in."

"That sounds like a pretty good idea, especially the part about drinking."

Drew and I settle on the sofa in the first room on the second floor. He rests his head on my shoulder for a second, and I take hold of his hand. "This is going to be good, Drew." I pull away a bit to place a kiss on his temple.

"Maybe."

"It will be. You did good. Just relax." Below us we can hear the first few people entering the gallery. Within a half hour there's a decent crowd, and Paul is ushering Drew around to meet people.

Truthfully the whole gallery thing just isn't my scene. People spend hours at these things. But really, it only takes a half hour tops to look at everything, and once you've looked at everything what is there left to do? Nothing. Drew's father must have the same opinion because 30 minutes into the opening, we're both at the bar, and an hour into the opening, he's slurring his words.

"You seem like a nice young man, Jesús."

"Thank you, sir."

"You and Drew are good friends?"

"Yes, sir."

"I think I need some fresh air. I'm going for a walk. If Louise asks, I'm in the bathroom."

"Yes, sir." Just as Mr. Grey leaves the bar, Paul comes up. Not a real improvement on company if you ask me. "Shouldn't you be hovering around Drew?"

"I've been with him for the last three nights. I think he could use a little break. He's got a hot little body, doesn't he?" The guy is a serious creep. I know what he's implying and I want to punch him in the face, but I feel my phone vibrating in my pocket and pull it out. I walk away from Paul and his insinuations.

“Hello?”

“Hi, Mr. Gonzalez. This is Sara Brown from Straight Arrow Publishing. We loved the stories you sent us, and we were hoping you could meet us tomorrow about a possible contract.” What the fuck is this lady talking about?

“You want to meet me...in Chicago?”

She laughs a little bit before replying. “Yes, in Chicago. Traveling expenses would be on us of course.”

Obviously this lady has lost her mind. But, I'm not going to give her time to find it. “Tomorrow's good.”

“I’ll email you your ticket information tonight then.”

“Alright. Thanks, lady..." I remember my manners, "Ms. Brown."

"See you tomorrow, Mr. Gonzalez." I flip my phone close and consider leaving to get some fresh air, but instead I head to the top floor of gallery. I sit on the couch across from Drew's pictures of us and take a few deep breaths. I know what Paul was implying down at the bar. But there's no way Drew would cheat on me. He loves me, and the proof is on the wall.

"Hey, I was looking for you." I turn around to see Drew standing in the doorway. He sits down next to me.

"We were all going to head to dinner soon." He doesn't sound to excited about it.

"You're not staying for the whole thing?"

"No, I don't need to be here. And I kind of want to get this dinner over with."

"You don't have to do this, Drew."

"I know. But I want to. You're the most important part of my life right now, and if I can't share that with my family…"

"Whatever you want, Drew. I’m behind you."

The five of us manage to maintain stilted conversation through the entire dinner. Drew’s father is still a little tipsy. The whiskey he’s been nursing all night hasn’t really helped him sober up any. He’s obviously proud of Drew though and how many pieces had sold stickers on them when we left. I know Drew told me that his father, the ultimate business man, wasn’t too happy with Drew’s decision to become a photographer. He thought there was no future in it, but I guess tonight changed his mind. The numbers don’t lie.

Mrs. Grey gave us all her own little unappreciated critique of the show. She said some of the pieces were “okay,” whatever the fuck that means. It’d be nice if she could just be happy for her son. Man, if I had done something like this, my mom would’ve been jumping all over the place.

Drew’s been trying to be polite to everyone. Caroline’s been trying to occupy her mother’s attention. And I’ve been trying to keep my mouth shut, because I don’t want to say something I’ll regret. I really don’t want to be at this dinner, but I’m here for Drew. Moral support and all that.

After we finish our dinners, Drew’s mother orders coffee while Drew’s father finishes off his whisky, and it looks like we’ll all be here for awhile longer. Mrs. Grey is halfway into her coffee when I feel Drew grab my hand under the table. And I know what he’s about to say. I kind of want to just stop the whole thing. His parents aren’t anything like my mom. She took the whole coming out/I’m-in-a-relationship-with-a-man thing very well. She was just happy for me. I don’t know what Drew’s mother’s problem is, but her children’s happiness isn’t the most important thing to her, and because of that, Drew’s about to get himself hurt.

“Mom, Dad, I…uh, have something to tell you. I’m sure you saw some of the subject matter of my show…I’m gay.” Mrs. Grey’s coffee cup freezes seconds away from her mouth. Mr. Grey signals a waiter for another drink.

“What?” She says it as if she’s sure she misheard. I’m sure Drew could say he just asked her to pass the salt and everyone would leave it at that, but that isn’t Drew’s style.

“I just thought you guys should know that I’m gay. Jesús is my boyfriend. We’ve been dating for awhile now, and I just didn’t want to keep any secrets from you.” Drew actually says it with a smile. He’s got bigger balls than I’ll ever have.

Mrs. Grey’s mouth twists into a frown, but she begins speaking lowly, probably so no one at the neighboring tables could hear. “Andrew Michael Grey, this is unforgivable.” She stands up and just walks out of the restaurant.

After a few seconds of staring after her, Mr. Grey stands up as well. To my surprise, he actually walks toward Drew. He rests his hand on Drew’s shoulder as he speaks to him. “It isn’t that bad, son.” He nods at me. “Nice to meet you, Jesús.” He turns toward his daughter. “Come on, Caroline. It’s time for us to go.” Caroline leaves the table, giving us a small wave and signaling for Drew to call her.

And then there were two.

I’m all ready to comfort Drew. “I’m sorry, Drew,” but he doesn’t seem to need any comforting.

“There’s nothing for you to be sorry for, baby. Come on, let’s get out of here.” We take care of the bill and leave the restaurant. Drew’s silent on the ride back to his apartment. I still haven’t told him about the call I got from the publishing company. It doesn’t feel right, sharing my good news when Drew’s dealing with a whole mess of issues. I’m not sure how I would’ve handled it if my mother reacted that way to the news. I know Drew isn’t as close with his mother as I am with mine, but still…he ''does'' care about her opinion of him.

It’s still pretty early by our standards when we get back to Drew’s. Instead of going into the bedroom we both collapse onto the couch. “I’m not upset, baby.”

I don’t believe him. “You’re not?”

Drew shakes his head. “I’m not. This night has been one of the best I’ve ever had. I had my own show, and it went well. I counted at least ten little sold stickers when I left. And I had someone by my side through the entire thing.” He takes my hand in his. “My parents…well, my dad took it better than I expected. My mother’s reaction wasn’t unexpected, but I was completely honest with them, baby, for the first time in a long time. It was kind of freeing.”

I don’t understand it, but “I’m glad to hear that Drew.”

“Are you staying over tonight?” Drew looks hopeful.

“Sure…” I guess now’s a better time than any to tell him. “You know how I sent out a few stories to that Chicago publisher awhile ago?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, they called me back, during your show. They want me to go out there tomorrow to sign a contract.”

Drew’s expression is almost comical. “Holy shit, baby. That’s so exciting! Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”

“I wanted you to enjoy your show, Drew. I was so proud of you.”

“Well, I guess we can both be proud of each other tonight. When are you leaving?”

“I don’t know yet. She said she’d send the info to me. I can check for it tomorrow morning.”

“You know, I think this is cause for celebration.” Drew went to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of champagne along with two glasses. He popped the cork and filled the glasses, handing me one.

He held up his glass. "To us."

I touched his glass with mine. "To us."

I use my spare key to let myself into Drew’s apartment. I already called him from the airport, letting him know that I’d be arriving soon. When I open the front door, I'm greeted by the smell of chicken and the sight of Drew standing at the stove stirring a pot of something.

"Hey, baby." Drew doesn't look up from his pot.

I walk behind Drew and carefully encircle his waist with my arms. "I missed you."

I can't really see his face but I can hear the grin in his voice. "You were only gone for two days."

"Yeah, well that doesn't change anything. Have you heard anything from your parents yet?"

"My dad called yesterday afternoon."

"How'd that go?"

"Better than expected. He told me he was proud of me, with my show and all. And he said that as long as I was happy and financially independent that he really didn't care who I was sleeping with. He also said I shouldn't expect any happy family dinners, but you sound like a good guy, and if he was ever in town, he wouldn't mind having dinner with the two of us." Hopefully that wouldn't be happening anytime soon.

"What about your mom?"

"He told me, and I quote, 'you know your mother.'"

"Do you?"

"Yeah, I guess I do. I mean, she's never approved of anything that's made me happy. If she wants to talk to me, I'll talk to her. But I'm not trying to please her anymore. It's just too hard."

"Your dad seems like a pretty decent guy. Why is he with her?"

Drew shook his head. "I don't know. Three parts obligation, one part love? I honestly have no idea." Drew changed the subject. "How was your meeting?"

"Good. They want to see some more of my writing, and they gave me a contract to look over. I can't make sense of most of it. I was ready to sign it right there. But they told me I should find a lawyer or agent to look over it first."

"Smart advice." Drew turns away from the stove to look at me. "Your mother called a couple of hours ago. She said you weren't picking up your phone. I told her about the Chicago thing. She's on her way."

"Fuck, I forgot about that."

Drew's smile was anxious. "Well, I haven't. I haven't stopped cleaning since I got her phone call."

"You don't have to impress her, Drew."

"I know I don't have to, but I want to. Everything you've told me about her...she seems like a cool lady. You love her and I want her to like me."

"She'll love you."

XXXXXXXXXX

The first thing Ms. Gonzalez said when she saw Drew was, "All that hair. I don't like it. You should cut it." She was brutally honest in a way that only made her easier to love. The last thing she said to Drew was "Adiós, mijo." And, "call me with that recipe."

Before leaving, she pulled me into the hallway to say her goodbyes. "He's too good for you. If you fuck this one up, I'll kill you myself. Te amo, mijo. Adiós."

"Bye, Mom."

I walk back into the apartment and Drew's waiting by the door. "So did I get the Gonzalez seal of approval?"

I just smile. "Of course you did. I told you she'd love you. In fact, she said you were too good for me."

Drew grins. "Of course I am." He takes hold of my sleeve and moves me to the sofa. He sits down and pulls me down with him. "So, these past couple of weeks have been crazy, huh?"

I have no idea where he's going with this. "Yeah, Drew, crazy."

"So...you never answered my question. Will you move in with me?"

Ah, back to the big question. The thing about moving in together is that it's a commitment, and commitment is scary. We'll be sharing bills and expenses. Eventually we'll end up buying furniture together. And if things end, then what will I do? But that's the key, isn't it? If things end... Commitment means taking a leap of faith. It means that even with the odds against you, you're still going to believe that things will work out in the end, that there'll be no end. It means ignoring the statistics, ignoring your mind, and going with your heart. And right now, my heart is saying "leap," so I leap.

"Sure."