Ribbon

Lying in the dark with Peter, I know his erection is there. I have not touched it since he told me the test results. He is my first boyfriend.

He has just finished telling me about special diets and the latest research. “Do you still love me?” he says, putting his hand on my cock.

“Our Dora is having a baby,” I say. “Pleased as punch she told me, making eyes at her boyfriend. 'It was an accident,' she says, 'the condom broke.'”

I know I should be brave. I know I should let him fuck me.

“Far too young,” I say. “He'll do the right thing until people stop congratulating him for being responsible. He won't be there in two years.”

I try to believe Peter when he says 'Nothing has to change as long as we're careful' but I know I will not be here in two years. Peter has his people now, a brotherhood stretched across the world tied wrist to wrist with red ribbon. I want it to break my heart but know it won't.

I will not be tied. I am too young to carry this.

“Accidents happen,” says Peter.

He takes his hand away.