[Johan's POV]
Johan still couldn't believe his ears. All his life, he believed his grandfather would abhor him once he found out he was gay; that he liked men. He turned to Russell for confirmation, because it felt like they were tricking him.
It was a trick, wasn't it?
Russell only smiled. Not his usual smug smirk that would annoy the shit out of him. It's a genuine smile that weakened his knees and made his heart beat faster. Then he wrapped one arm around his waist. And thanked god he did, because Johan was about to collapse from all the bravery he exerted for... nothing but an unexpected acceptance.
Johan faced his grandfather again and wiped the wetness on his cheeks. He couldn't show a weakness in from him. There was definitely a catch, was there? He still didn't believe it fully.
I'm not sure about other cultures, but in Philippines, the word gay ('Bakla/ Bading' in Fil. language) is almost synonymous to the word 'weak' in some instances when used as an insult or a derogatory word. Admittedly, Johan's grandfather had a toxic masculinity perception, but it's a sad reality.