Chapter 1: Beginning
The campus courtyard buzzed with activity—the first day of the fall semester, sunny and hot. I tugged at my collar, navigating my way through the throng of students. The tingle in the pit of my stomach was both nerve-racking and exhilarating. New classmates, new professors, and with any luck, new romantic possibilities. It had been six months since I’d graduated from high school, and three months since starting testosterone injections. Now, nearing the one-year anniversary of coming out as transgender, I felt ready to date.
I couldn’t wait for the day when a cute guy would express interest in me. I dreamt of his dark eyes, broad shoulders, and genuine smile. His voice, like rich, silky chocolate, would envelop me in a warm embrace as he asked me out for coffee or a walk through the park. Not to mention the attraction for my own identity, I felt drawn to individuals who would respect me for who I am: a man, trans or cis.
The courtyard teemed with various students representing all walks of life.