“I’m not sure about that but yeah… you and I have an exclusive relationship, I don’t have any doubts about it and I’ve proved to you” Shane was talking quietly, they were at The Planet enjoying a cup of coffee

“I’m not saying you do but I’m not outted to my family and I think it’s time for them to know the truth” Carmen was unsure about what she was about to say “and I need you to be with me when I talk to them”

“It’s your battle to fight, not mine” Carmen looked hurt “I’ll support you if they tell you that you’re not welcome home anymore or whatever it might be their decision but don’t ask me to be there while you say hello family I’m gay!” Carmen remained silent “What?” Shane asked

“Nothing…. I thought I could count on you, stupid me!” She grabbed her coat and left

Alice had been listening to the conversation, when Carmen left she approached Shane who was smoking and shaking her head

“I can’t believe you!” Shane turned to face Alice  “hello???”

“What?” she was still passive

“You could go with her”

“Could…. not have or must.. she has to do it by herself”

“Maybe but you’re her girlfriend….. it’s no easy for her Shane, come on! she comes from a conservative family, she’s the typical nice daughter who always come to visit for the traditional parties, go to church when she’s asked to”

“I know that but I don’t wanna be in the middle of the fucking storm I’m sure it’s going to be her coming out….. I’ll be strong enough for her to comfort her”

“That’s what I wanted you to realize!” Shane wasn’t following “you’re strong, she’s not, she might be latina, hot, passionate and determined but she doesn’t have your strength” Shane took another cigarette from her pocket “she needs you there to be strong”

Shane sighed “So what you’re saying is that if I go with her I’ll make her feel secure and strong enough to talk to her family?”

“Duh”

“I’m serious Al” Shane protested “I don’t wanna be the excuse for her to be gay” a beautiful girl entered The Planet, Shane stared at her uninterested “see? I’m serious about Carmen….. I love her…. but I don’t want a girlfriend who takes me to her parents house and says this is Shane, she’s my girlfriend, yes mom I’m gay.. Coming out it’s something that people do alone and when they’re ready not because they can hold it anymore and that’s what Carmen is feeling”