[**WEDNESDAY**]

Every Wednesday afternoon, M.J. made his way to the skatepark, drawn by the familiar clatter of wheels on concrete. He loved skating, but the real reason he never missed a session was because of Seth Blackwood and Phoenix Slade, two close friends his dad had forbidden him from seeing because of their homosexuality.

The three of them, however, still found ways to stay connected anyway; Seth even got a job at the same coffee shop where M.J. worked. Seth, who was gay, captained their school's swim team and spent weekends teaching tennis to beginners. Phoenix, who was bisexual, led their school's baseball team with steady authority. Where Seth’s features were soft and delicately effeminate, Phoenix carried a stronger, unmistakably masculine presence. Appearance wise, the boys were like night and day, but were practically one when it came to everything else. Their relationship was something out of a romance novel and envied by many, M.J. included. The three of them had just dropped into a smooth run when they paused for a breather, boards resting beneath their feet. Phoenix wiped sweat from his brow and shot M.J. a half-smile.

“You’re dragging ass today,” Phoenix chuckled. “You must’ve gone out last night.” M.J. smiled guiltily. “Mom’s gone until tomorrow and it’s almost Dad’s weekend. Figured I should live it up while I can.” “Next Friday you have to come with us to the Heights - college side, obviously,” Seth chimed in.

“I’ll think about it,” M.J. said.

“What’s there to think about? Do you really want to miss out on a bunch of hot college guys with wealthy family ties?” Seth teased. Phoenix frowned and nudged Seth’s shoulder. “Keep talking like that and you’re not going anywhere. The only hot guy you need is right here.”

“Yes, sir,” Seth laughed, giving a mock salute before leaning in to give Phoenix a quick peck on the lips.

M.J. forced a laugh along with them, the sound hollow in his own ears. He watched the easy affection between them and felt the familiar ache twist deeper in his chest. One day, maybe, he’d find the strength to live as openly as they did. Until then, he’d keep showing up every Wednesday, smiling through the envy, grateful to be near two great friends who made him feel accepted.