A Little Life

Jude’s suicide attempt puts the value of his relationships into sharper focus, so he meets up with JB and finally extends his forgiveness. Willem follows his lead, and the original crew of four that began the book is reunited in friendship. Willem’s career has reached new heights of success, with fans and critics alike hailing him as a great talent and casting directors offering him everything from blockbuster action roles to prestige drama roles. As he spends time with Jude after Jude’s suicide attempt, Willem gradually begins to realize he has feelings of attraction for Jude that go beyond friendship. Hesitant to damage the most important friendship in his life, he asks Andy’s advice. Andy thinks the idea of a romantic relationship sounds wonderful for both Jude and Willem, but he advises Willem not to start anything if he is not prepared to deal with Jude’s substantial anxiety around sex. Willem takes this point under advisement but ultimately decides he wants to proceed.

Jude and Willem transition their friendship to a romance but agree not to tell anyone until they grow used to the idea. Jude feels unbelievably lucky that Willem wants this kind of relationship with him, but, as Andy warned Willem, he is completely unable to engage in anything sexual.