inevitable retort—“let’s move on. So when can we meet Tony, anyway?” “Actually, we were hoping we could both come here for Christmas break—not for the entire two weeks, of course. We want to spend part of it with his parents, too. But at least long enough that you can get to know each other.” “That’s a wonderful idea, honey. Your dad and I would love it. Just let us know ahead of time which days you’ll be here, and I’ll have the guest room ready.” Renee hesitated. “Sure, Mom. But—” She took a deep breath. “Well, like, is the guest room really necessary? I was thinking we could just stay in my room together.” Teri’s eyes went wide with shock, but Kenton responded first. “Don’t be silly. You can’t do that. You know it’s not right.” “I thought you’d say that,” Renee responded. “I explained to Tony how you and Mom feel about that sort of thing, but I promised to talk to you about it anyway. I don’t see why you can’t just accept my lifestyle choices and me. But don’t worry. We’ll respect your feelings and sleep in separate rooms while we’re here.” Teri’s heart pounded like drums. “While you’re here?” Her voice went high and shrill. “What do you mean ‘while you’re here’? Are you trying to tell us that you two intend to sleep together when you’re not here?” “We already do, Mom. We’re in love. You don’t really expect us to—” Kenton interrupted. “I expect you to honor the morals and values your mother and I taught you all your life.” “I do,” Renee countered. “That’s why I agreed that we would sleep in separate rooms while we’re here. But at Tony’s house or at school, it’s different.”
14 — JOSH MCDOWELL & SEAN MCDOWELL
TXT_Beauty of Intolerance.indd 14
11/19/15 11:39 AM