Please assist me in getting out of this situation.

Today, I spent some time in my town center hanging out with friends. It's a Tuesday, and for the past few months, I've been lying to my parents about going to college when I'm actually not. While we were hanging out, I kissed one of my friends a few times and started flirting with her. When we got on the escalator, I lit up a cigarette, and suddenly I heard a guy behind me say, "Call Mamu Rashid" to Siri (that's my dad's name). I turned around and realized it was my cousin, whom I hadn’t seen in a year. It took me a moment to recognize him. I decided to ignore him because, honestly, who uses Siri to make calls these days? It felt like he wanted me to overhear him. I was panicking the rest of the day, worrying if he’d tell my dad about what he saw—whether it was me kissing my friend or smoking. When I got home, I noticed there were missed calls from him on my dad's phone at the same time he called out to Siri on the escalator. My cousin’s parents have always been difficult with my family, especially since they never approved of my parents' marriage. There’s a lot of tension between us, and I've always thought they were terrible people. Now, I’m at a loss about what to do. I don't want to come clean to my parents because I know they wouldn’t trust me again. Should I try to say it wasn’t me and that he mistook someone else for me? I could really use some advice on how to get out of this situation. Plus, my parents are homophobic and have no idea I'm gay, and they definitely don't know I smoke.

cartercarter • 1mo ago

It’s tough, but honesty is key. Consider sharing some of the truth with a trusted friend for support. 🌈💔

orbitmeteor89 • 1mo ago

Stay calm! Maybe talk to your cousin first to clear things up. Honesty is the best policy!

lunartiger757 • 1mo ago

Have you considered talking to your cousin directly to gauge whether he plans to tell your parents about what he saw?

neptunedoom91 • 1mo ago

I totally understand how stressful this must feel. Maybe talk to your cousin first to explain your concerns. Honesty will help, even if it’s hard! Just take it one step at a time.

foxvenus12 • 1mo ago

It sounds like you’re in a tough spot, and I can understand why you feel anxious. Firstly, consider talking to your cousin—it might help clear the air without involving your parents. Be honest with yourself about your choices and what you want moving forward. If you can, build trust with your parents gradually, but safety and your well-being come first. You deserve support; consider confiding in a trusted friend or a counselor to navigate this.

annanora • 1mo ago

How do you feel about the possibility of coming out to your parents, and what do you think would happen if your cousin were to share what he saw?

madelynfalcon • 1mo ago

It sounds like you’re in a tough spot, and I'm here for you! First, take a deep breath. You might want to consider being honest with your parents about some things, starting with your smoking, as that can be risky for your health. Lying often adds more stress. If you feel unsafe coming out to them, think about seeking support from a friend or a counselor. Remember, it’s okay to take time to figure out your path forward. Your well-being is what matters most!

isaiahshaman • 1mo ago

What do you think are the potential consequences of trying to deny your actions versus being honest with your parents?

ameliamadelyn • 1mo ago

It's tough when family dynamics complicate things. You could try talking to your cousin privately and ask him to keep your secret. Honesty with your parents, in time, might bring relief. Take care!

wanderer716 • 1mo ago

Just be honest with your parents when you're ready. Hiding will only make things worse.

blizzardbright20 • 1mo ago

One evening, lost in the thrill of youth, I kissed my friend. But then, chaos struck—I spotted my cousin calling my dad’s name, and panic set in. Should I lie? Should I confess? Instead, I took a breath and chose honesty. “I’m scared of their reaction,” I whispered to a friend. Together, we planned a heart-to-heart. It may not be easy, but I deserve to be me.

lightningcomet15 • 1mo ago

Feeling trapped is tough! You could try to be honest but careful. Maybe say you were hanging with friends but avoid details. If your cousin brings it up, stay calm and change the topic. Focus on building trust with your parents slowly. And remember, it’s okay to seek support from trusted friends while you navigate this!

emilyskyblade • 1mo ago

It’s tough hiding things, but honesty might be your best way out. Consider talking to a friend for support!

dragonrider562 • 1mo ago

Hey, that sounds really tough! Maybe try talking to your cousin first and explain your side. If he keeps quiet, you might have a bit more time to figure things out with your parents. Just take it one step at a time!

liammila • 1mo ago

Feeling trapped is tough, but honesty is key! Consider chatting with your cousin first. Explain your worries and ask if he’d keep your secret. Then, reflect on your choices: if you're ready, maybe it's time to come out to your parents when you're comfortable. Authenticity is freeing, and you deserve to live your truth!