It didn't take more than a few seconds for Gabriel to realize the nature of the relationship between Michael and Janice. They plainly adored each other, and the faint feeling of distance that Michael had often displayed, as if he were a spectator in his own life, was entirely gone. Who cared about Janice's life history, Gabriel thought, she makes my brother happy. He knew that their dad would be horrified by the knowledge that his son was dating a transgender woman, but who cared what his dad would have thought? Janice seemed like a good person.
++++++++++++
Taylor and Maggie were gossiping with some other girls after school about all the recent craziness--the general belief was that Valderrez had the makings of a hot guy--when Maggie's phone got a text. Michael was texting "Guess who's here?"
Maggie had a pretty good idea, and made a hurried excuse to Taylor so she could get home quickly.
+++++++++++++++++
Gabriel laughed. "So, as kitties they're total sluts! That's hilarious." He petted the black cat. "So I guess we're going to have some new brothers and sisters?"
"Looks like it." Michael answered.
"I hope they make better mamas than what we had."
"For real."
Just then Maggie showed up at the door. "Bro!"
"Maggie!"
Gabriel caught up with Maggie as he had with Michael earlier. The group decided to order a couple of extra-large pizzas to celebrate. Maggie suggested inviting Taylor over. "Who's Taylor?"
"My girlfriend."
"Friend girlfriend or girlfriend girlfriend?"
"Girlfriend girlfriend."
Gabriel laughed. "That's great sis. I'd love to meet her."