A new start

 

It was the last thing Steve expected, but somehow on Christmas morning, his parents found out about Simon.

It started out by oversleeping. He thought for sure Alfie would have knocked on the door or something before he left, but he didn't. Of course, Alfie let Steve's parents in.

"Well, it was going to happen sooner or later," Simon smiled now as if it might have been the best Christmas present ever, even if it didn't feel like it at that moment. Everything had came undone.

Steve still wasn't sure how to deal with it.

Of course, his mom went off the deep end when they came out of Simon's room just in their sleep pants. She was furious and practically hit both of them, but his father came to the rescue and pulled her off before she could seriously hurt anyone.

Finally, he settled her down while Steve made coffee. It was then he heard his father's words for the first time.

"Don't you think it's best that he found someone? We won't be here forever," he was serious and now it made Steve sad to think about it, even a week later. "We should be happy for both of them."

Of course, his mom only sighed and gave everyone the silent treatment. Steve doubted she came around anytime soon, but he was grateful his father understood.

"You don't think she thinks-" Simon started to say something but he laughed instead, happy they were on the right track for the new year, as Steve brought him breakfast on the first day of the year at the dining table.

Steve didn't even want to know what Simon was talking about. Yes, he was afraid he would always be reserved when it came to romantic matters, but there was Simon who always wanted to be alone with him and of course, in their room..now. But Steve knew the place needed vacuuming and maybe the floor mopped.

At least Simon planned to be a nutritionist. His online classes started soon and Steve still loved his job at the library. Even if it were part-time.

Steve remembered his dad's final words before he left. "I think it's great that you and Alfie are still friends. You know, he's been the most worried. But I kept thinking he was the one you would end up with."

Steve only smiled now as he went on to get ready for the new year, checking dates on all the food in the cabinets. He was glad they could watch out for each other. He would always be there for Alfie. Of course, Steve knew this was the only relationship (being with Simon) he wanted to be in. He could only hope Alfie would find a life partner or he might always be the third wheel.