tw: implied/referenced transphobia, implied/referenced abuse, gender dysphoria, child neglect

He was supposed to be with his father, having finished all of his lessons for the day. He isn't surprised when Dave is there instead, looking through his father's bookshelves. His father never commented on the missing books, but Florida was sure he knew.

"Mom gave me a new name," he starts carefully, "we talked about it." 

Dave nods, pulling a book down and skimming through it, he isn't entirely sure Dave's paying attention. Any other time he'd feel relieved this conversation got ignored, but Dave would never treat him like that, Dave never gave him anything to fear.

"That's it?" Dave asks, setting the book down next to him and looking for another, "That's all you're going to say?"

That horrible tight feeling in his throat comes back and he nods before remembering, this was Dave, nothing would happen to him. He shakes his head, signaling he's ready to continue "Will."

"I'm sorry?" Dave places two more books down next to him and looks up at Florida with a confused expression, "Oh! You mean the name! Yes- yeah, that sounds like something your mother would pick." Florida chooses to ignore the fond smile Dave has while he speaks, it was none of his concern.

"Yeah, it uh- feels better."

Dave nods, "makes you feel awake? Stops you from... disconnecting?" Florida blinks slowly, caught off guard by the description, "I know someone like that," Dave gives him a small reassuring smile, "I won't tell." It's a weight off his chest to hear and he's sure Dave knows.

"Mind if I add something?" Florida glances over and nods, looking for something to do "August."

Florida, who in the time he decided he wanted a distraction had began unpacking his bag, looks over, "August?"

Dave nods, "August."

Florida stares at the notes in his hand, then glances up at Dave, "August." He repeats, "why?"

Dave shrugs, "reminds me of home."

Florida nods, William August Rodriguez, it fits well enough.

"I like it." He says and Dave beams.