Graceland
an excerpt

“Oh gee, we're from Illinois too! Just between Rockford and Wisconsin. Isn't that funny?!” The ladies and I laughed almost in unison. The men finally acknowledged our existence, as if we had to pass the Illinois test first. I immediately became concerned that if we spoke more with them I'd be forced into a football or baseball conversation, and sports just are not my thing.
“So, where you boys headed?” asked the fatter of the two men.
“Graceland.” proudly replied Charlie.
“Home of The King then, eh? You like Elvis, boy?” asked the fat man.
“I think I do. I only just heard him today. He's a king?”
“Wow, I guess you did just hear of him.” said the other man. Everyone but me laughed. I should have told him about the king thing.
“He's the one that started it all. Gosh he was so handsome, wasn't he Pearl?” The ladies giggled.
“That's what my dad said, too.” I nearly slapped my forehead with my hand a' la Homer. All the resonant laughter abruptly ended.
“He means the bit about Elvis starting it all.” It was amazing how quickly I'd succumb to middle American values. I'm not gay, but if that had happened in Urbana, I wouldn't have been so quick to clarify. Charlie didn't get it.
“Well I hope so, what with you traveling with a young boy and all. What's your names then?”