Page 69 of His Secret Santa
Holden laughed softly. “Even then.”
• • •
Holden’s nerves began grinding his guts when the Trans Am pulled into his driveway.
“Are you sure about this?” Lincoln asked. “I have enough money to spend a few days at a hotel. I can figure something out after that.”
“No,” Holden murmured. “You’re saving that money for an apartment. You can stay here.”
Holden had his doubts about his parent’s compliance, but he meant what he said; if they refused to let Lincoln stay, then he would leave with him.
They entered the house and found Holden’s parents in the kitchen. His grandparents weren’t up yet, and he was glad. He wanted to talk to his mom and dad alone.
“Holden, you’re home early…” his mom started, then fell silent when she saw Lincoln. “Who… who’s your friend?”
His dad stared at Lincoln warily.
“Lincoln Pratt,” Holden said. “He’s… he’s my boyfriend.” Holden tensed, unsure what to expect. When his parents just looked at each other and neither spoke, he added, “He needs a place to stay until he can find an apartment. His dad…” Holden glanced at Lincoln, uncertain if he should tell them what happened at his house. Lincoln nodded. Holden faced his parents. “His dad kicked him out.”
“Why?” Holden’s dad asked anxiously.
“Because…” Holden swallowed. “Because he came out to his dad this morning. His dad kicked him out and told him not to come back.”
“He what?” Holden’s mom stared at Lincoln in shock.
“I told Lincoln he could use the spare room,” Holden said. “If you say no, then I…”
“It’s okay,” his dad murmured, not entirely cool with the idea, Holden could tell, but still agreeable.
“Thank you,” Lincoln said sincerely. “I shouldn’t be here too long.”
Holden hadn’t expected them to give in so quickly. He looked at Lincoln. “Go on up to the room. It’s the second door to the left. I’ll be there in a minute.”
Lincoln nodded and thanked his parents again then went upstairs.
Holden crossed the kitchen. “Thank you for this,” he whispered. “I wasn’t sure…”
His mom touched his face, eyes misty as she gazed at him. “You’re… happy.”
Holden swallowed thickly, his vision blurring. “I am, mom.”
“I… I can’t remember the last time you looked happy.”
Holden’s chin trembled. “Lincoln is a good guy. I just want you to know that. He’s good to me.” He blinked. “I know you’re still struggling with all this, but that doesn’t mean I think you’re bad parents.” His throat worked. “I saw a father disown his son today and kick him out of his life just because he was gay. He was a bad parent. But you… you didn’t throw me away.” He hugged his mom, startling her. “I know how lucky I am. I saw it today… how lucky I really am.”
“Oh, baby.” His mom held him, in tears. “More than anything, I just want you to be happy. I was so worried about you.”
He kissed her cheek. “I’m okay, mom. I’m happy.” He looked at his dad then walked over and hugged him. The man hesitated then held him. “Thank you, dad,” he whispered. “Thank you.”
Holden left the kitchen, wiping his eyes as he climbed the stairs. He entered the spare room. Lincoln stood at the window.
“Hey,” Holden said softly. “How do you like the room?”
Lincoln turned around and smiled. “I like it.”
“It’s not as big and fancy as your other room…”
“It’s better.” Lincoln came over and rested his hands on Holden’s waist and kissed him. “Know why?”