I love how they're finding their way around tradition and using the worst in the past to build the best for Cal's future. Especially the "no lies" rule! In the light of which, I don't mind (much) the traditional, infuriating "you're old enough to know..." ;-)
The discussion of sexual orientations reminded me of something being said in "Liquid Sky": "When I'm in love with somebody, I don't care what shape their genitals are." That's it in a nutshell, isn't it?
The last line, however, is sobering and true: "he was still very alone".
I'm looking forward to more stories in this 'verse, very unusual for me. I'm learning much. Thank you.