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Stephen doesn’t need to know everything

“You were paying her for her tihter”

The distinction ht into their stupid accusations putting the extra cash in with her check I thought I was being generous Now I realize how it made her feel

He rowl “Do you care about this woman or not?”

It’s such a straightforward question I step back, walking to the balcony, looking down over the patio where she spent so many afternoons with Lillie Every day, I’d step outside and watch thes or just blow bubbles It soothed my soul to know she was there It was like a part ofhad been found

“Yes” It’s so easy “It didn’t matter I asked her to stay, and she still left”

“Did you tell her you wanted her to stay?”

Now II asked her to stay”

“It is not the sa for Lillie”

“Of course, I mentioned Lillie” Remorse flashes in my neck How could she not understand how much I wanted her to stay?

A long sigh fills my ear “If you want her to stay, tell her If you care about her, ask her on a date, propose to her Marry the girl Whatever is in your heart Just stopit harder than it is”

“That’s what she said”

“What?”

I can’t help it It’s so easy

“Thanks, man I owe you”