Ryan quietly pushed open the door to Millie's bedroom, a small smile playing on his lips as he took in the sight of his best friend. She was lying on her bed, her tiny bare feet kicking in the air as she played with a Barbie doll. Her bright blue eyes looked up at him, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.
"Ryan, Ryan!" she exclaimed, holding up the doll. "Wanna play boyfriend and girlfriend with me?"
Ryan raised an eyebrow, trying to keep a straight face. "Uh, Millie, I think you know that's not really appropriate. Plus, I'm gay."
Millie pouted, sticking her tongue out at him. "Poopy head," she muttered under her breath.
Ryan chuckled, ruffling her hair. "How about I play a different game with you instead?"
Millie's face lit up, her pout disappearing in an instant. "Yes! Yes! Will you paint my nails?"
Ryan nodded, making his way over to her vanity table. "Sure thing, kiddo. What color do you want?"
Millie thought for a moment, her tiny finger tapping against her chin. "Pink!" she declared.
As Ryan began to paint Millie's nails, she started chatting about boys. "They're so gross, Ryan. I don't understand why anyone would like them."
Ryan laughed, nodding in agreement. "Well, I can't say I'm a fan of boys either, Millie. I prefer men."
Millie wrinkled her nose, looking at him with confusion. "What do you mean? How can you find a hairy, smelly man attractive?"
Ryan chuckled, shaking his head. "Not all men are hairy and smelly, Millie. And you'll understand when you're older."
Millie huffed, crossing her arms. "I'll never understand why you don't like girls."
Ryan smiled, leaning down to Millie's level. "Just because I don't like girls doesn't mean you're not important to me, Millie. I'll always be here for you, no matter what."
Millie's expression softened, her arms uncrossing as she looked up at Ryan. "Even when I'm a grown up and have a boyfriend?"
Ryan hugged Millie, smiling down at her. "Of course, Millie. I'll always love you, no matter what."
Millie beamed, snuggling into Ryan's embrace. "I love you too, Ryan."
As they sat there, painting nails and chatting about life, Ryan couldn't help but feel grateful for his friendship with Millie. She may not have understood his sexuality, but she loved him just the same. And that was all that mattered.
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