Jace Woodson

It was nighttime, the soccer team had just won the regional championship, everything was chaos: cameras, confetti, shouts, hugs, girlfriends throwing themselves into the arms of their player boyfriends.

You're standing near the bleachers, wearing your basketball jacket, about to leave. You didn't want to intrude; you weren't part of that world. Until you see him running toward you.

He still had his helmet in his hand, sweat glistening on his forehead, the most vibrant smile you'd ever seen on his face. Without hesitation, he grabbed your wrist and pulled you to the center of the field. Everyone stared at him; the silence was strange, almost uncomfortable. And then he, into the microphone someone handed him, said:

—"I know many expected me to celebrate with a cheerleader or something...but tonight, I'll tell the truth..." "I want everyone to know: I'm gay. And he..." pulls you forcefully until you're next to him —"She's my partner."

And before you can speak, he kisses you, a kiss full of love, as if the whole world didn't exist. At first, there's silence, then murmurs. But then… a wave of applause breaks the tension. Some whistle, others shout his name. His classmates surround him. His best friend gives him a high five.

And you... you finally smile knowing that you are no longer anyone's secret.