Strygent (Jace Harrison Solo Book)

6

I don't know why I expected the piano teacher to be hot. Who was I kidding? Of course it's an old man with shaky hands. Who's been playing since ancient times. I'm bored by his slow speech pattern. My lids droop against my will.

"When playing the piano, cup your hands as though you're holding an egg and press the keys with the tips of your fingers – not with the palms. Playing with flat fingers is an easy habit to get into, but it will make it difficult for complex pieces." The elderly man croaks. He plays the notes to Fur Elise using the hand positions. "Now you try."

I mimic his hand posture. It's odd only using my fingertips. I'll have to get used to it. By 6pm our lesson is concluded. I gained the ability to use both low and high chords in each hand using his advice."

"Thank you Mr. Scott." My mother graciously escorts him to the door.

"No worries, I live to teach."

"We look forward to your next visit."

"Thank you, sir." I bid him farewell.

"You're welcome, young sir. Have a blessed night." His frail voice is charming.

Mom and I wave him goodbye from the front porch. We see him off to his car before closing the door. "What a sweet man." Mom smiles. "Now, wash up for the charity event. Be ready by 6:30."

I shower and dress in a classic black and white suit. I choose a long tie over a bow. I don't want to look too snooty. Of course Tom chose to be flashy as possible. A black gold suit with matching shoes. The rest of us choose black and white.

The event is held at an actual palace, hence the name. White wood floors and cream walls. The ceiling is domed glass. White banquet tables. I stare in awe as if I've never been here before.

Cindy and her parents aren't here yet, so we decide to wait before sitting. It would be rude to start dining without them. I excuse myself to the restroom to call my sweetie. "I'm so sorry I'm running late, I wanted to look perfect so makeup took forever."

"You already look perfect."

"Well I want to look super perfect then." She giggles. "I'll be there in 5."

"Alright, can't wait."

Cindy does a kissing noise into the speaker. "Bye, baby."

"Bye."

My sight falls on the letter G in my contact list. I labeled Grayson's caller ID this way so none of my siblings can know who's calling. They all know who he is. The king of the football team...and now the jock who's secretly into me.

I eye his number, wondering when I should call.

This is cheating isn't it? I'm in a relationship with Cindy. This compromises that...if I call him what will it mean? That I'm cheating on my girlfriend with a boy?

I do love her... not just because of sex but because she listens. Cindy doesn't judge me for being a whiny, spoiled brat complaining about their family. She's trustworthy. Good hearted. Humorous. I have to admit she's extremely hot, but there's nothing better than having someone in your corner and agreeing with you.

I share my sensitivity with her and no one else. Only she knows the torment I suffer with my family.

By the time I return to the table, my girlfriend and her parents are there . I take a seat. "Hello Mr and Mrs. Browne."

"Hello, Jace." Her father gives a brief nod.

"Lovely to see you again." Her mother smiles. "Sorry for being tardy, Cindy was too busy beautifying herself."

My girl rolls her eyes. "Hush, mom" She laughs. The blush pink dress she wears is vintage. Very Marilyn Monroe.

"When is the wedding?"

"After college." My mother says so confidently, she chuckles as if it's a joke.

"After college, when Jace is far more established in the world." Dad agrees.

"It will be a great match." Mr, Browne is just as invested in the idea.

Sharon, the host, taps a microphone. She stands at a podium. "Hello, all! Thank you for attending the 25th LuvAid! Please complete the donation slips and enjoy the show." The red haired woman bows as if she's the queen of England.

The band performs smooth jazz. Piano. Saxophone. Drums. Guitar.

I'm saved from the ridiculous conversation. The music and the slip is a lifesaver. I'm highly bothered. I do love Cindy but marriage is far away...we're just dating. Why is this topic even happening???

My girl holds of my hand under the table. "You okay?" She whispers.

"Yeah."

"They're joking about marriage."

I must have slipped up and revealed my uncomfortable thoughts. "I know."

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing." I grin sweetly to convince her I'm okay. After the first course, I excuse myself to the restroom. I vigorously wash my hands with soap. My mind rages. Married after college?? Established in the world?? My parents aren't only ruining my present life their planning my future!

Once mom and dad set their minds to something...it's written in the stars. Meaning I can't do anything...I can't even combat it. That'll be strange to them. I'd be questioned.

Both mine and Cindy's parents are arranging me to marry by 21. Who knows if I'll even want that by then? Are they so set on me being straight...and nothing more. As if everyone is that way??!

I unlock my phone. I never exited out of the contacts page. My attention lands on G's number. I massage my temples and huff out a long breath.

No...

I can't do this to Cindy. I can't runaway to someone else. I just have to suffer through this night. I'm used to acting straight...I can keep doing it.

I click off the screen.

#Gay
#MxM
#BxB
#LGBTQ
#Wattpride