When she had received a package from home, this wasn't what she expected. Why was there a photo album? Why was it filled with pictures of her... before this? She hated those pictures. Why did they think putting them in a photo album for her was a good idea?

Claudine sighed as she continued flipping through the pages. As much as she cringed at those pictures, she was still curious about what all was in the album. That curiosity kept her from tossing it somewhere in the room until she could send it back.

Of course, that was when when someone decided to let themselves into her room. Not even a knock or an announcement.

"What are you doing?"

"I could ask you the same thing. Ever heard of knocking?" Claudine turned around to look at the intruder. It was Maya. Who else would come in without a warning.

"We're dating. I didn't think that was needed anymore."

"I don't want you seeing me changing! How about that?" Claudine huffed and turned back around, muttering under her breath.

She was more annoyed than usual due to the personal stuff sitting right in the open. Which, of course, Maya saw. And of course, wanted to know what it was.

"What are you looking at?" Maya came over and sat beside her on the floor.

It all happened to quickly. Claudine didn't have a chance to close the album or anything. Maya was already looking at it.

"This is... a photo album? Your parents sent it?"

"Yes."

Claudine wished it would have ended at that, but of course, Maya wanted to see now. It shouldn't be a problem under normal circumstances. But, it was for her. Because those photos were before she started transitioning. Before she was able to look true to herself. When she still looked like a boy.

"Is this you here?" Maya was obviously a bit confused by the appearance.

"Yes..." Claudine mumbled, rubbing her wrist in nervousness.

Of course it was a photo with her... deadname on it. Right there for Maya to see. That wasn't the issue. Claudine didn't care if Maya knew. She just wished it had been on her own terms. Not like this.

"I... I wasn't always a girl."

"Oh. I suppose I should've asked before looking through this." Maya seemed embarrassed now.

"I-it's okay... I... I don't care... I just..." Claudine took a shakey breath, "Thought this day would be... a lot different."

"I don't care if you're different."

"I know... I'm not... scared."

"You seem it."

Claudine gulped, "I... maybe I'm a little..."

"I love you. No matter what." Maya hugged her tightly.

"I love you too..."

"Would you like to put that away then? I won't look any longer."

"N-no... it's fine. Um... we can look through it together."

"You sure?"

"Yeah. I don't mind. Just, don't tell anyone about this."

"I won't, Claudine. I promise."

After a few minutes, they pulled away and Claudine flipped back to the front of the album. She felt a little nervous about showing so much personal stuff. But, she knew it would be alright.

She really had never needed to doubt she'd be accepted.