Context: I am visiting a high school friend. Another friend who we both knew in high school has posted some interesting things recently. This friend has changed their name, but the friend I am visiting is not following them and is not aware of their transition.
How do I bring up this friend without dead naming them?
I'm confused as to why you're thinking so hard about something when half a sentence is all it takes to convey the relevant information.
Is there something specific that you're worried about?
I just want to respect my friend's transition.