Around May last year, I visited my cousin for a coffee to talk about my coming out, after she learned about it from my dad. We talked about me and my secret second life online, discussing all the things I couldn't before.
I made sure to dress up appropriately, and when she first saw me come in the door she got extremely excited; way more than most who've seen me that way. The moment stuck with me that I knew I had to draw it, and as I left I asked her what animal she thinks she'd be - she said "golden retriever."
I've been fond of her for a very long time, but given the differences in our social circles, I never felt like I could have a real connection with her. I genuinely believe that coming out as trans brought us closer together.
Finally getting to show her this art in person a couple months ago was genuinely wonderful; she absolutely loved it.
