The pause that follows makes my stomach twist.
"You know my asshole father," Mateo continues. "I want to ruin him." Another pause as Liam responds. Mateo's eyes flick to mine again, apology written all over them. "He's gay or bi. The moral of the story is that my homophobic father likes men." His words drip with venom.
More silence. Mateo listens, his brow furrowing. "That's it. Isn't that enough?" He clenches his jaw, waiting.
I can hear Liam faintly on the other end but not enough to catch actual words. Doesn't matter, the tension in Mateo's posture tells me everything.
"Well, he did hit me when he found out I have a boyfriend," Mateo adds, his voice hardening. "So if we get evidence, will you run the story?" Another beat of silence. Then, Mateo's shoulders loosen. "Great. Can we come in tomorrow? … Perfect. Thanks, Liam. I really appreciate it."
He hangs up and sets the phone on the table, exhaling like he's been holding his breath for years.
