Zeke and Pattie

Chapter Twenty-Three: Zeke

Two years ago during the summer before the beginning of ninth grade:

It was a Friday, summer school was just finishing for the week for my best friend. I had my usual plans to hang out with him. He was a great friend, but dealt with depression. I was there for him no matter what. He was depressed because he was constantly bullied by his peers. Hence why he went to summer school because he didn't finish the remainder of his eighth grade in class. Due to his depression taking a toll.

Aiden had came out as a trans male. A lot of preteens wouldn't understand, but I did. The Aiden I first met was a girl, but there was a boy trapped inside. He's been struggling really hard with his body and dysphoria. I've been supportive through every step of the way. Doing what I can to be a safe space. We usually hung out after school on Fridays. Just playing video games, staying out of the public's eye. As we're both introverted and preferred the indoors anyways.

Plus, he was deeply self conscious about going in public as it is. He wasn't in the body he was meant to have. And didn't 'pass' with ease as a male. Staying out of social areas was something Aiden often did.

I waited by the front doors, waiting for Aiden to meet up with me. Which he did. I greeted him with a smile. He had recently cut what was once long red hair, into a standard short, masculine haircut. That hair cut helped him a lot in ways I'll never understand.

He was wearing a white Nike cap backwards. Was wearing a baggy grey hoodie, trying to hide his feminine figure. Somewhat loose fitting jeans and white Nikes matching his hat. Of course his square, black eyeglasses would never change. Until he needed new prescriptions.

His brown eyes lit up when he saw me. Aiden rushed over towards me. I instantly held my hand up for a high five. "So, do you want to pick up any snacks from the convenience store on the way?" I asked.

Aiden smiled at me. "I'm down for that but, I actually had an idea for something a little different then what we usually do on Friday nights." He noted.

"Oh? I'm sure any idea of yours is good. Do tell?" I question in surprise.

"You're always encouraging me to be proud of myself and just ignore hateful people. So I was kinda wondering if I can attempt to face that fear at a party I heard about? It's not really our crowd but, I want to try something different. Change is good." Aiden whispered his suggestion.

I was genuinely surprised by his idea. But, I adored the glint of confidence that shined in his brown eyes. "That's not an issue with me. Who's party is it? What's the other details about this party?" I asked, wanting more information for clarification.

"It is Rocky Allan's party, at his house. It starts at 7;00 pm and ends at midnight. We'll stay clear of any alcohol if there is any. Which will probably be the outcome, as Rocky is a friend of Charlie's and all. We'll also leave if I feel really uncomfortable too. I promise." Aiden explained.

I looked at him sternly. "The minute you hit your peak, we're out of there. Besides that, I guess it could be fun?" I say, more like a question than a reply.

I was questioning if this party would be fun or not. I didn't care for that stereotypical teen crowd. It also turns out Rocky's house was only a block away from where Aiden lived. Close proximity was good, if things turned too much for Aiden and if he needed to get home quickly.

Rocky Allan was also another unique case. He was the only friend of Charlie's that wasn't an athlete. He was popular because of how sociable he was with everyone. Also just a bit of a joker. Overall was a lot more real than the rest of his popular kid crowd. He wasn't an asshole to people. So Rocky held my respect.