Page 30 of The Tryout

“So I’m thinking twelve hundred per month, through the end of the season. At that point we can discuss whether we want to keep it up for next year?”

I’m conscious of the fact that I may not be back next year, even if I want to stay.

“That’s way too much, Avery. I thought you said not five hundred.”

“Yeah, it’s definitely worth way more than that. I mean, I assume the rent’s going to go up a bit this year, and there’s no way I’m paying less than half. Plus there’s water, electricity, internet. And the lease is in your name, so if my contract gets terminated in May, you’re gonna have some of the lease to handle on your own, which seems unfair.”

“Oh.”

I expect him to say something more, but he doesn’t seem to know what that should be. Finally, he finds the words.

“But…you could live on your own for that much.”

I shrug, knowing from my quick research that he isn’t wrong.

“Maybe I don’t want to live on my own.”

After four years with Jamie, the last twelve months by myself have been hard enough. I need a little noise in my life.

“Oh. Well, if you’re sure.”

“I am. Do you have a lawyer you want to have write something up? Or my Pops could, he’s a lawyer.”

His face is confused.

“I thought he was an interior designer?”

Oh, shit. Well, we should definitely get this out of the way.

“No, that’s Dad. Pops is an entertainment lawyer. They’re…gay. Is that gonna be a problem?”

He looks surprised, but not…malevolently so?

“I mean, I did just get done living with Jamie and Ethan for two weeks. We’ll be fine.”

“Oh damn, they’re probably even more disgusting than they were in March.”

He chuckles at this, but I know I still have to press a little further.

“Finn, you should know I’m queer, too. It’s…it’s okay if that’s something you’re not comfortable with, but I’d like to know now.”

“You’re gay, too? Are you…out?”

I shrug. Jamie and I have gone back and forth on this, but I don’t really have any desire to dig into it now.

“Out enough. And I’m not gay, I’m pan.”

He looks confused.

“I’m not picky.”

That gets another laugh.

“That’s not a problem. Really, I promise.”

I hold his gaze for a moment, deciding he means it.

“So when can I move in?”