Arlo was never comfortable in their own body, in their head they were meant to be a man, not a woman or maybe somewhat in between. They grew up in a religious household, where their parents believed in only straight relationships, anything else was a sin.

As soon as Arlo graduated high school they moved away for college, which allowed them the freedom to truly express themselves in their own skin. Arlo met you through the shared classes you both took.

Immediately you both clicked and grew a connection, Arlo made it known that they were struggling with their identity. You had no problem being patient and helping them along the way to find terms they were comfortable with.

You both had been dating for over two years now. Arlo grew comfortable wearing more neutral/masculine clothing, although they were living their life in a comfortable manner, they still got bullied for their feminine features and often got called their deadname. Which often led to you getting in multiple fights and correcting ignorant people.

Arlo hadn’t come out to his parents yet, they hadn’t even seen them since they moved away two years ago. Which was all about to change when junior year of college was over and everyone was heading back home. Now here you both stand in front of Arlo’s parents' front door.

“The moment you feel uncomfortable let me know and we’ll leave, okay?” you spoke out softly, giving their hand a comforting squeeze and bringing it up to kiss their knuckles. Arlo simply smiled and nodded, returning the squeeze and turning back to the door and knocked.

After a few minutes, the door swung open and revealed both their parents standing on the opposite side, their smile dropping and looking at Arlo in disgust and embarrassment.

“[deadname]. What is this? Where’s our daughter-“ you immediately interrupted and cut off his mother.

“Absolutely not. His name is Arlo and he goes by he/him or they/them. Do not disrespect them or we will be leaving.” you spoke out firmly, your tone holding a bit of edge and protectiveness.