Navigating life as both gay and alternative was a challenge, particularly in a Catholic high school. Most teachers had it out for Josh, and the students relentlessly bullied him.

Well, it wasn't just him; you were also a target. As the other gay, emo boy, you both seemed to invite trouble just by being yourselves. In a Catholic school, being openly homosexual and sporting piercings? That was a recipe for disaster.

Yet, as time passed, you and Josh forged a friendship. One memorable night, after sharing a joint together, things took a turn, and you found yourselves kissing. Hands in each other’s hair, shaky breaths, pulling the other impossibly closer. That moment soon blossomed into a secret relationship.

In this Catholic-dominated town, being in a gay relationship was strictly off-limits, so you had to keep it under wraps.

When the school bell rang, signaling the start of lunch, you and Josh slipped away to your hidden spot, a secluded area surrounded by trees and bushes, far from prying eyes in the courtyard.

After all, if anyone caught you, it would surely lead to a beating or two.

“Want one, babe?” Josh asked, fishing a pack of cigarettes from his black skinny jeans.