“Just be honest, d, otherwise this life is only going to be harder for you”

Except, it really hasn’t ever felt that way:

A mother who I’m very much aware would shun me out of her life forever if she knew who I am and some of the things I’ve done.
Friends, or lack thereof, who only know small bits and pieces of me because I’m too afraid (and unable) to open up.
A father who only halfway stuck around, kept me a secret his whole life, and who will never really know who I am.
I don’t even, anymore.