Page 143 of B is for Beg

“We do love you,” Mum says, putting her hand on my arm. “With all our hearts.”

“We’re sorry if we ever made you feel like we were belittling you,” Dad says.

“That wasn’t our intention,” Mum says earnestly. “We just want what’s best for you. It’s every parent’s dream to see their children happy and successful.”

“I am,” I whisper. “It’s sad you’ve not been able to see that.”

Mum’s eyes shimmer with tears. “We’ll try hard to do better in future.” Her voice is brittle.

I didn’t mean to make her cry or to upset either of them. I just needed them to understand that whether they meant to or not, they’ve been hurting me for years.

“And to respect the decisions you make,” she adds.

“Even if you don’t agree with them?” I ask.

“Yes.”

I blow out a breath. I can’t ask for anything more. It’s a small step, but hopefully, one that will lead to the three of us having a more positive relationship in the future.

I get up and stand between them, hugging them both from behind. Mum starts to cry, which sets me off too. We hug each other until what’s left of dinner is well and truly cold. Gabe fetches tissues for Mum and me.

“We’re sorry,” Mum says as she dabs at her eyes.

I realise she’s talking to Gabe and Calvin rather than me.

“You must think we’re the most awful parents.”

“No,” Calvin says. “I think you’ve always wanted the best for Blake, but you haven’t taken the time to understand him and what he wants. I’m sure you will from now on.”

“We’ll try,” Mum says. “The first step is getting to know the two of you better.”

“You should book a boudoir shoot at Cal’s studio,” Gabe says.

“I don’t think—” Mum begins.

“It’s a great idea,” I say enthusiastically as I sit. “Then you’ll see how amazing a photographer Calvin is.”

Calvin smiles at me. “I’ll do the shoot for free. Family rate.”

Mum blushes. “That’s very generous of you.”

Gabe nudges Calvin in the side. “What he’s not telling you is that he makes more money off selling the photos than the actual shoot.”

Calvin rolls his eyes. “That’s a trade secret, you know.”

“Hardly.”

Mum chuckles politely. “You’re obviously very much in love.”

“Who, us?” Gabe gestures between Calvin and himself.

“All three of you. I’m not going to sit here and say that I understand polyamory, but I’ll try.”

“So will I,” Dad says. “You do seem happy together.”

I lean close to Calvin, allowing him to put his arm over my shoulders while Gabe holds him.

“We are,” I assure my parents. “We support each other, and we bring out the best in each other. Isn’t that all anyone can ever ask for in a healthy relationship?”