95

95

Lilian

As I pulled into my driveway, I was surprised to see Damien’s car parked outside. It took me a moment to remember that today was Wednesday, his usual day to come home early.

I entered the house and found Damien in the living room, lounging on the sofa with a book. He looked up as I walked in, his eyes narrowing slightly with concern.

“Hey, Lilian,” he said, setting the book aside. “You’re home early. Everything alright?”

I hesitated, trying to concoct a believable excuse. “Oh, um, I wasn’t feeling well, so I decided to come back early,” I said, forcing a weak smile.

Damien’s expression softened, but there was a note of reproach in his voice. “I told you not to push yourself too hard. You should really take it easy. If you’re not feeling well, it’s better to rest up for a few days.”

“I’m fine,” I insisted, though I knew it was a lie. “I didn’t think it was that serious.”

“No, Lilian,” Damien said firmly, rising from the sofa and walking over to me. “You need to stay home a