Something Like Rain (Something Like... Book 8) by Jay Bell Page A

over them. You’re not choosing anything. You’re attracted to guys, and there’s nothing anyone can do about it. If your friends possess any intelligence, they won’t blame you for what you can’t change.”
    William thought about it and nodded. He couldn’t let things continue the way they were. “So I just tell everyone that I’m gay?”
    “Up to you. It’s not how I introduce myself. I let people get to know me, and when such subjects come up naturally, that’s when it makes sense to be truthful. For me, anyway.”
    “But if Jared is homophobic and racist, then how did you end up being best friends?”
    “He said something racist, but that doesn’t make him racist exactly. He realized he was wrong and apologized. As for the gay thing, you’ve got me there. I purposely didn’t tell him. I’m out to my family and friends, I’ve gone to a gay youth group for years, and I’ve had more boyfriends and lovers than most people my age, but when it came to him…” Kelly shook his head. “I was deluding myself. I wanted to be with him, even though in my heart I knew he was straight and that I didn’t have a chance, so I avoided the subject completely. I let myself dream we were both too scared to confess our feelings to each other. Basically I was stupid. Learn from my mistake. Tell your friends.”
    “But you telling Jared ended your friendship.”
    “Him being a douche is what ended our friendship. Girls are cooler about these things. Usually. I don’t think you have anything to worry about. It’s either that or you can keep making out with them. And more.”
    “She rubbed her boobs against me,” William said with a frown.
    For some reason this sent Kelly into a fit of laughter. His smile was nice. And contagious. No wonder he had so much experience in love. The thought made William feel intimidated, and as he watched Kelly try to get himself under control, he felt even more certain about what he wanted. Kelly was an amazing guy, and anyone—himself in particular—would be lucky to have him as their boyfriend.
    “Do you still like him?” William asked. “Jared, I mean. Do you still have—”
    “Of course not,” Kelly spat, sobering up. “I don’t feel anything for him at all.”
    William knew that wasn’t true. Kelly still got angry when Jared’s name was mentioned and was still dead set on him not winning the triathlon. Feelings definitely remained, but if they weren’t romantic in nature, then maybe he stood a chance.
    * * * * *
    William circled the dining room table, searching for any imperfection. The utensils were spotless and straight, the napkins carefully folded. Even the handle of each teacup was aligned horizontally with the edge of the cloth placemats. Small plates awaited each guest, a platter in the center stocked with cupcakes and petite sandwiches. Everything appeared flawless until he looked up and saw one big problem standing in the doorway.
    “Mom!”
    “I know you wanted the house to yourself,” she said, moving forward to inspect the table.
    He blocked her path. “I thought you and Dad were supposed to be out shopping today.”
    “That’s what I thought too. Apparently he was called in to work this morning.”
    William briefly shared her irritation before he resumed being selfish. “You promised me—”
    “I know, I know,” Kate said, raising a hand. “I’ll be taking a nap. I have a headache. You just enjoy yourself.” She turned to leave but then hesitated. “I thought you were only having Lily over.”
    He shook his head. “Abby and Holly too.”
    “All three girls?” his mother said, sounding scandalized.
    Did she think he was planning on having an orgy? “Mom!”
    “I’ll be in my room,” she said, shaking her head.
    She left, giving William just enough time to put a few more things on the table—including the kettle of water he had brought to a boil—before the doorbell rang. His friends’ expressions were just as puzzled when he answered