[Hey, assuming the worst is the norm when it comes to teenagers. They’ve all got shit self-esteem and make stupid guesses, so Rich can’t blame him for that. And besides, Rich may not be hiding it now, but he assumes Michael has barely been around him.

...That said, he is pretty sure his gaydar is working alright, and pretty sure Michael doesn’t even need to come out.]

Yeah... that was pretty lucky. Optic nerve blocking is pretty fucked up. Mine could make me see shit I knew couldn’t be happening. Even if it felt real.

[But let’s not talk about that. And even if he wants to, Rich refrains from teasing Michael about his pining for Jeremy. He just laughs sheepishly and sticks out his tongue.]

How into me are you, dude? Half sounds like you’re gonna leave love letters in my locker now.