First Crush Last Love

The bar was decorated with a 1970s’ disco theme, complete with a multicolored dance floor that Pat kept full with his song choices. Jessie watched several couples twirl and gyrate. “There are no women here.”

Feigning shock, Martin rose off the bar stool, craning his neck to better survey the room. “My God, you’re right! Let’s leave.”

She hit him on the arm. “I’ve never been in a gay bar. It feels… kind of weird.”

“Why?”

Her fingers fidgeted with her beer mug, wiping shards of ice off the warming glass. She was too insecure to think herself beautiful, but a few times in her short life she had caught a random guy giving her a second glance. In Pat’s bar, she could be the next Miss Universe and not get any attention, unless perhaps she was having a seizure.

She let out a long breath and said in a rush, “It’s weird because all these men are gorgeous, but none of them are looking at me.”

Her brother laughed until he had to wipe away the tears in his eyes. “You’re too funny.”