Page 67 of Next Season

“Thanks. I’m on my way to the airport now and—”

“Don’t tell me you’re calling to cancel Christmas. Mom and Dad want to see you and—”

“No, that’s not it. I, um…”

I scratched my head and winced, unsure how to continue. It was a little daunting to know I’d have to do this multiple times if I was serious about coming out. And I was serious. I didn’t want to hide. I was too old for that shit, but damn…this was hard.

“Hey, Ri, are you okay?” she asked, her voice gentle with worry.

“I’m fine. But I have something to tell you, and I need to try this out with you before I talk to Mom and Dad or…anyone. I—”

“Riley, you’re scaring me. Spit it out or I swear to God, I’ll reach through my cell phone to shake it out of you.”

I chuckled. “I’m pretty sure you can’t do that.”

“Riley…”

“I’m bi.”

Silence.

“That’s it? Ugh! You asshole. You’re going to give me a coronary. My heart is beating so fast right now. I thought you were going to say you were sick or depressed or unhappy.” She grunted, adding in a softer tone, “Are you happy?”

“I am. And I met someone. He’s…um, pretty amazing.”

“Oh, Ri, I’m happy for you, honey,” she gushed.

“Well, thanks. It’s…we’re not together,” I corrected awkwardly. “I wish we could be, but…”

“Hockey.”

“Yeah.” I closed my eyes briefly.

“I see. Well, I’m glad you told me. Will you tell anyone else?”

I nodded, though the gesture was lost in the cell connection. “I’m gonna tell everyone, Tar. It’s going to be public knowledge…as in the world will know. A lot of people won’t care, but a few assholes will. You’ve always been good to me. You’re an awesome older sister…the best. I love you and I just—you deserve to know before anyone…in case you need to process anything. Or whatever.”

“You almost made me cry, but now I want to smack you. What is there to process? You’re still you, Riley. Nothing changes, baby bro.”

“Thanks,” I choked out.

“What’s his name?” she asked after a moment.

“Jean-Claude.”

“French! Ooh-la-la.”

I snorted. “French Canadian. He’s from Quebec, he’s a chef, and he’s funny as fuck without trying to be. You’d love him. Honestly, I think Mom and Dad would love him too, but…”

“Introduce us.”

“It’s not that simple.”

Tara sighed. “I know, but I want that for you. Say his name again.”

“Jean-Claude.”

“You say it beautifully, like it means something to you. Likehemeans something to you.”