Page 141 of Waiting for Ru
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RU WASN’T SURE if this was the best of days or the worst of days. He wished Mike hadn’t threatened to out Jasim, but if he hadn’t, maybe Jasim would never have taken this step. Anxiety churned his stomach. What if Jasim’s family decided they still wanted to get rid of him? Even if everyone knew who was responsible, no one would be able to do anything. The UK wouldn’t risk its relationship with Saudi Arabia over the death of a prince, or over Ru’s death if it came to that.
The idea they’d always have to keep looking over their shoulder was terrifying. But he didn’t want to say that to Jasim. Ru was also a little hurt that Jasim hadn’t said he was going to acknowledge that Ru was part of his life, but that was nothing compared to concern over Jasim’s safety.And maybe mine?
He couldn’t tell Ink. So he called Caleb.
“Hi, Ru.”
“Hi, Caleb. Am I disturbing you?”
“Nope, I’m at home. Not busy. It’s good to hear from you. Are you okay?”
“I needed to talk to someone.”
“I’m here. What’s happened?”
“There’s been a situation at work and a guy threatened to out Jasim so he’s told everyone he’s gay before that could happen.” Ru blurted out the words.
“Oh wow. I can’t say I’m not shocked. But I guess that’s a good thing, right?”
“He didn’t say that he’d tell people about me and him.”
“Ah. Well, maybe it’s one step at a time. It’s huge for Jasim, coming out as gay.”
“I’m scared for him. Once his family find out…”
“He’s stronger than you think.”
But not against his family.“I know what he did to you and for you.”
Caleb exhaled. “If he told you, then he must trust you. You can rely on him. He won’t let you be hurt. This is your chance for a life together. Don’t ruin it by wondering what might happen, grab it with both hands. Take your days in the sun while you can because you never know what the future will hold.”
“Yeah. I know. I still feel like I’m fumbling my way through life.”
“That feeling goes in time. You’ve only been free for a short while. There’s a lot to learn and catch up on. All Jasim needs is you by his side. You’re his strength.”
“Not his weakness?”
“No. I think he’s been waiting for someone like you all his life. Hold his hand and you can step into the future together.”
“Yeah…”Does he want me there with him?
“Isla’s just come in with March. I have to go. You can do this, Ru. Just be there for him.”
“Bye, Caleb.”
“Bye, Ru and don’t be scared.”
All that should have made Ru feel better, but it didn’t. Maybe Jasim didn’t need him by his side. Maybe now he’d come out, Jasim would want to be with someone more…suitable.
Bela flew into the room and settled on his chest. “Sad,” she cawed.
“How did you know,aingeal?” Shewashis angel. She’d been so much to him for all these years.
He jumped at the knock on the door. “Ru?”
“Come in.”
