As she walked down the school halls, Aria was thinking about what her friends were teasing her about. Was Holden actually gay? Well, it was true that he didn't try to kiss her or he didn't look any further apart from her eyes when they were talking, but… she had known him since they were little kids and Holden had always been brave and strong, he didn't look gay at all.
Then came Emily through Aria's mind: lots of people, when they were asked to think of what a lesbian looked like, instantaneously pictured a shemale on their minds. The brunette girl automatically felt guilty of judging her friends' sexualities just based on topics.
Even though it felt never-ending to Aria, the last couple hours of school went by and soon the young liar was rushing to the teachers' room, so her mum could drive her home. On her way there, Aria bumped into Emily.
Hey Aria, are you going home already? –asked Emily.
Hey Em, yes I am, do you want my mum and I to give you a ride home? –replied Aria- your house is on our way so it's no problem!
Thank you very much! I think I'll take that
You're welcome Em –replied Aria with a smile- but, there's something that I actually want to talk you about… Could you come home for a while? I don't know about you, but I don't have any homework!
Yes sure, I'll just text Hannah and Ashley!
Half an hour later, both girls were sitting in Aria's bed. Mike was at football practice, Byron was probably still stuck at college with his students' papers and Ella had announce she had to go to her yoga class, to get some groceries and to pick up Mike from practice. It was perfect: Aria could get to talk to Emily openly.
What you guys said today –started Aria talking- do you really think Holden's gay? I don't mean to be rude, but it is said that you gay people have got some gaydar thing and I thought that if someone would know either if Holden's gay or not it would be you Em.
The latter laughed a bit.
Don't worry, that isn't rude –answered Emily- and yes, I'm pretty sure that Holden's gay. Have you taken a look at his skin? He's sixteen and his skin is better than ours! And besides… his clothes always match perfectly and ever since he came back, lots of girls have approached him but he has rejected all of them… always with courtesy and gentle words! Isn't that a bit strange Aria?
Aria nodded and assumed, that Holden was at least, bi curious.
Do you think I should tell him that… you know, that I know it? –suggested Aria.
Well… I have been in his place, and if he's not cool with his sexuality, it might hurt him but if he's assumed it instead, you'll just make him feel as if he has someone he can trust. Anyways, Holden seems like a mature guy, I think you could try to talk to him –said Emily.