"He's not real, Casper!" the words leave my lips in a frustrated shout.

I know I should speak calmly but I just can't.

"Don't you think if God was real he wouldn't think it's a sin just to love a boy?" my voice wavered, and i cupped his face with my hands.

Watching the way he tensed, Casper's fingers itched to grab the cross that dangled from the chain around his neck.

I wanted to rip it off of him; to throw it far away, where i'd never see him reach for it again.

I can see the fear in his eyes, how terrified he is to simply be himself.

"You are the sweetest boy I know. The kindest person I've ever met. And yet you still go through so much. A loving god would never do that to someone."

I wipe the tears that threaten to spill on his cheeks.

I need to kiss him; to tell him it's okay.

"Casper.." I murmur. His gaze flicks up to meet my

own and I lose all control.

Pulling his body into mine, I bury my face into his hair.

"Stop punishing yourself for something that isn't wrong. Love isn't wrong."

Casper's shoulders shake, and I know he's crying more.

He chokes out something that almost sounds like 'Julian.'

My name.

Arms tightening around him, I can't help but mold my body around his.

I'd do anything for this boy.