I loved my son. I was falling in love with Richard. More than anything, I wanted the two most important men in my life to like each other.

I wanted it to be easy.

I had no idea how badly I had misunderstood what was waiting for us.

The Introduction That Never Happened

At the end of August, Jason invited us over for a barbecue.

It seemed perfect.

A casual evening.

Food on the grill.

Drinks.

No formal dinner or uncomfortable restaurant conversation.

Just a chance for Richard and Jason to meet naturally.

Yet during the drive, Richard seemed unusually tense.

“What if he hates me?” he asked.

I laughed.

“He won’t.”

“You don’t know that.”

“He’s protective. That’s all.”

Richard smiled, but I could tell he remained nervous.

When we arrived, Jason was already in the backyard.

Smoke from the grill drifted through the warm evening air. Jason stood near the barbecue when we came around the side of the house.

I smiled.