It doesn't matter. Of course it doesn't. As unbelievable as it still feels sometimes, Jack is with me, and he seems to be happy about it. Sure, he still has moments where it's not easy for him, but I still have those moments myself and I've been out of the closet a lot longer than he has.

All I can do is make sure he never regrets being with me.

When I look over again, Jack's staring down at his skates, looking a little bit terrified. I already have one of mine on and laced up and I reach over to squeeze his arm. "You're with me and I'm with you and we're gonna skate," I agree, my voice quiet but firm. "C'mon, that skate isn't gonna lace itself, Mr. Zimmermann."