Disclaimer: I do not in ANY WAY own Modern Family.

A/N: So, it's been a while. I have recently fallen in love with Modern Family and I have seen all of seasons 1-4. Anyway, I also became intrigued with Luke's character. I just image him so different on the inside, and I think I can make many of the ideas I have for Luke-centric stories work.

Also, please review!

Here it is:

Influence (Chapter 1)-Musings

I wonder how he did it. It's not like it's easy to keep something about yourself so hidden for so many years. How did he stay so strong? Well, I guess he did have my mother as support. But, he didn't really have my grandfather.

But, that's not to say Grandpa didn't love him. Hell no! He loved the crap out of him! He just wanted him to stay safe and happy.

But, who am I kidding? Compared to my situation, Uncle Mitchell's isn't as bad. That's not to say it was easy. I've already gone through that. But at least he likes people.

I, well, like nobody.

I think it's easier for people to accept a gay person easier than an asexual person. Because, with a gay person, they have the same urges, just not for the "norm" gender. But with asexual people, they can't relate, at least on such an intimate level. A lot of my friends say they lost their virginity already (I happen to think they're talking crap), and I try to act interested. But...I can't.

"Luke?" Dad asks me. He looks at me with so much pride. And...I like it. He's always been proud of me, but not he has a reason to be proud. I got straight A's last semester, and I did on the second-to-last report card of this semester.

This actually takes me back to last summer, when I had to go to summer school for failing Pre-Algebra. I was so distracted by my orientation (or lack, thereof?) that I completely spaced in class. Over the summer, Alex helped me learn everything (I swear, she should be a college professor or something) and I even got a year ahead in an online course during the Summer after Pre-Algebra. Now, I'm getting an A in 10th grade math, even though I'm only a freshman.

"Yeah, dad?" I ask him, not taking my eyes off the road in front of me. I like to look at the scenery when people drive.

"I just want to tell you again how proud I am of you. You really have come a long way in school. You've even inspired your sister to go back to school. Not only that, Luke, you have matured so much. Your mother and I...we're just lucky to have a son like you." Dad says, focusing on the road once again.

"Thank you, Dad. I'm lucky to have you and Mom as my parents. I love you both so much." I say, and then we stop. No need to get all mushy and gross.

When we get home, I carry my backpack upstairs and avoid that freaking step. I go to my room and close the door. I turn on the fan and just lie there, wondering what to do.

Right now, I just want to nap. Today was more exhausting that it usually is. The bullies were at full force today.

But I will always defend my family, no matter what. Nobody messes with Manny. Though he's technically my step-uncle, he's like a brother to me.

Not only were they ragging on him about his poetry and clothes, they started talking about Mitchell, and being his step-brother, Manny didn't take it too kindly.

I feel so bad for him. He's really great at ignoring them (Manny even asked me in the past not to interfere) but they started to get physical and that's where I had to step in. I didn't throw a punch. When I got there, they kind of just backed down.

I...have a reputation. I've gotten into a few fights, some defending Manny, some defending my Uncle, even some defending myself. Amazingly, I've never really been caught.

This is one of the reasons why I'm glad Alex is still here at the school, as a senior. First, Alex never butts into my business unless I specifically ask her to. She knows what it's like to have your older sister help fight your battles for you. But, she helps me keep things from Mom and Dad. She's like my go-to alibi in case I ever need one. Not only that, she can vouch for me at school and say I was attacked first, though the other students know the truth.

I wonder what changed within me. Maybe it's just my acceptance of my own asexuality. I can't even think of another reason; that one alone gives me enough pride because I can accept it. It makes me strong like my Uncle.

I've debated talking to him about this. I mean, it is supposed to be this hard to come out to a gay relative? Maybe. Definitely.

I'm just not ready to come out yet. Nobody knows, and it's going to stay that way until I am good and ready.

A/N: Such a short chapter! I know, I know. But I have tons of things to write in as I go along, so don't worry. How do you guys like my interpretation of end-of-freshman-year Luke? This is the first kind of Luke-centric story I've seen. And, if it turns out well, I have tons more ideas to play around with. Also, don't forget to review!