Chapter 24: Chapter 24

“Hey, Coach, do you mind if I say something?”

“Not at all. If you have something to add, let’s hear it. Come on up.”

The room fell silent as Caleb stood next to the coach and smiled at everyone.

“Look, I…” He cleared his throat. “Wow, I’m not sure how to say this. I’ve thought about it for years, but this certainly wasn’t the plan.” He cocked his head and saw Lucas staring open-mouthed at him. “So, um, here’s the thing,” he said, raking his hand through his hair. “I’m gay. And I’m not going to hide anymore.”

The room stayed quiet, and he smiled wider. “Oh, yeah, and I’m a secret Trekkie.”

Brandon laughed and clapped his hands. “I always knew. I saw how your eyes lit up every time a new Star Trek movie came out.”

Everyone laughed, breaking the tension.

Lucas grinned and Caleb smiled back.