Lucas waited nervously at the park for Jett. He was skipping class to meet him – something he probably shouldn’t be doing, but he wanted to meet with the other man. Besides, the advice given to him the previous evening by Jett’s boyfriend was sound, and since then he didn’t think it was fair that Jett be kept in the dark about how he felt.
He paced across the bridge as he waited, too anxious to appreciate the beautiful spot. When he finally stopped to lean against the stone railing, he felt more centered and at peace. he watched the creek as it flowed towards him, over rocks and branches. It was blessedly free of man-made debris, and had small fishes and other wildlife about. He was appreciating all of this when Jett approached, clearing his throat.
Lucas looked up, startled out of his reverie. “Sorry…I was lost in thought.” he said sheepishly.
“Oh yeah? What about?”
“Us.” he said simply, unsure of how else to state things. Jett gestured for him to elaborate as he pulled out a cigarette and lit it, standing downwind of Lucas so he didn’t have to breathe in the smoke. Lucas wrinkled his nose.
“Those things are gonna kill ya.”
“They haven’t yet. What did you want to tell me?”
“I…well…you see…” he stammered. Jett waited patiently, and it was seeing this look of patience that just made Lucas blurt it out. “I’m in love with you.”
Jett blinked. “You’re what?”
“I’m in love with you. I have been for a while. I just didn’t want to tell you because you had a boyfriend. I know you love him, but I felt like you needed to know.”
“What made you change your mind on telling me?”
“Honestly? Your boyfriend. He could tell I was in love with you and encouraged me to let you know.”
Jett was quiet for a while as he thought. After several moments of silence, Lucas continued.
“I know this wasn’t supposed to happen, but I can’t help how I feel.”
Jett flicked away the last of the ash on his cigarette and walked to the end of the bridge whee discrete containers for butts were kept, then walked back to Lucas, and put his hands on the other man’s upper arms.
“I know you can’t help it. I’m sorry I’ve been oblivious to it.” he placed a gentle kiss on his lips. “Maybe I can learn to return the same affection. I do adore you already, after all, and count myself lucky I met someone like you.”
Lucas blushed, but smiled brightly.
“Don’t you have class?”
“I do, but it’s almost over, and meeting with you seemed more important than Adolescent Psychology. Want to get some lunch?”
“I’d love to.”
“Great, let’s go.”
With newfound confidence, Lucas took Jett’s hand, and led him through the park to a place they could have lunch together.