"My debt is paid off? What do you mean? I still have 3 months left."Damien cleared his throat and took a deep breath like he was about to drop a bombshell."I got the hospital bill a few weeks ago. My insurance had it reduced severely and covered most of it. I only ended up paying about $600 out of pocket, and you essentially paid that off in your first month," he explained.I was stunned. Both from finding out Damien hid this from me and that an insurance company in America actually did what they were supposed to."Why didn't you tell me?" I asked gently. Surprisingly, I didn't feel upset or angry. I actually felt a little proud of myself. He obviously kept this from me for a reason, most likely selfish ones. But from his words, I gathered he wanted to keep me around as long as possible. I placed my finger up to my mouth to hide the smile forming on my lips. Damien rubbed the nape of his neck uncomfortably."I just... I didn't want you to leave," he mumbled."Why not?" I asked, inch

Damien led me through a path, our palms separating from the sweat pooling between them. The sun shone brightly and a thick humidity hugged us as we walked. The lake loomed over the distance, ripples sparkling from the sunlight like diamonds hitting the water. An occasional breeze cascaded from the water to us, sending a warm, floral scent in our direction. Most would consider this a perfect Summer day, but all I could worry about was ruining my new dress with sweat.Before we left the hotel room, Damien had pulled out a pink, floral sundress with the shortest skirt I had ever seen, off-shoulder ruffled sleeves, and laces at the front. It was a lot more feminine than what I usually wore, but I loved it nonetheless. He beamed as he explained how Ron helped him pick it out for me, and he insisted that I wear it before 'the thing' he has planned. I still hadn't met this Ron, but at least he had good taste. I eyed him suspiciously at first, unaware of his intentions, but put it on after so