On a particularly hot summer I found myself bored and restless. My wife and kids were leaving on an extended vacation to visit her family in Europe. The plan was for them to be gone for two months. Of course I could not go because of my job and that was okay since I was establishing myself as a valuable asset. My manager, Dan, was my mentor and he sympathized with my situation concerning being alone for two months.
"Tony, you are a very dedicated employee and I do appreciate your loyalty. If you are interested, I would like to invite you to my summer home in Fire Island for a long weekend." What could I say but yes of course. He planned it for the following weekend after my family left.
"Thank you boss but I would not want to impose on your hospitality."
"Nonsense! Now pack up some clothes and make sure you pack a bathing suit."
And so he picked me up at my home early Saturday morning and we drove to the dock where we caught a boat leaving for Fire Island. The trip from beginning to end would take at least a few hours so I was deep in thought. I can describe Dan as a charming older man. He had been married but was now divorced. Dan seemed very happy and enthusiastic. As we traveled, he casually mentioned our final destination. "My summer home is located in the Fire Island Pines section close to Cherry Grove. You should know that this part of the island consists primarily of a gay population. I hope you don't have a problem with that." At this point what could I say. We were almost at the dock and although I was surprised, to be honest, I was a little excited at the prospect of immersing myself into the gay community. I wasn't aware that Dan was gay and I had begun to question my own sexuality. Up until now I considered myself a heterosexual but I did have feelings for men.
"Not a problem Dan. I just did not realize that you were gay."
"Like you Tony, up until my divorce, I considered myself a heterosexual, and then I discovered my true sexual identity. Forget about all things gay. We are here to have fun. You will never be forced to do anything that you are uncomfortable with." And with that said, we arrived at the island and headed straight to his summer home. I felt very comfortable with Dan. Actually he was kind of a hot guy. But I did not want to spoil our friendly relationship so I smiled and acted as if nothing had happened out of the ordinary.