While the older generation was having their heart-to-heart, the young people were doing the same.
"I've always wondered—why did you fall in love with me?" Lily asked, gently squeezing Ray's hand. "And also, I'm very curious why you decided to become a kidney donor to help my sister?"
Ray could have joked as usual, but decided to tell the truth.
"I saw how hard you worked and how difficult things were for you. In character, you're very much like my mom. There were times when she had it tough too, but she didn't have anyone to be her support."
"I won't lie: I wanted gratitude from such a beauty," he chuckled.
"So if I weren't such a 'hot stuff,' you'd have walked on by?" Lily asked playfully.
"No. But your beauty added to my enthusiasm. Many people say looks aren't important—and that's true. But everyone enjoys having a beautiful person nearby."
"If you're a fat pig dreaming of a beauty, you either have to measure up or have qualities that outweigh your shortcomings. That goes for women too," he added.
"Don't tell me you have complexes about your weight?" Lily asked playfully.
"Yes, I do. But because of the medication I take, I can't lose weight. So I need to work hard to compensate for my shortcomings."
"You shouldn't worry about that. I like falling asleep in your arms. Besides, I like having something to hold onto," Lily smiled.
Once, when Lily stayed overnight at his place, they'd gotten a bit carried away, but it hadn't gone beyond kisses and caresses. The girl really did enjoy sleeping in her beloved's embrace.
"If I ever notice you're too fixated on this, I might decide to gain weight myself to ease your worries. So stop worrying about such nonsense."
"I still haven't heard how you decided to become a donor," Lily smiled softly. "Tell me."
"I stopped being afraid of death long ago. The only thing that scared me was the thought of Mom being left alone. But all my attempts to set her up with someone ended with her not even giving them a chance."
"Another thing that scared me was the thought that I wouldn't have time to do something good and nothing would remain of me."
"Seeing how hard you worked to help your grandmother and save your sister, I suddenly realized I was falling in love."
"I'd thought about becoming an organ donor more than once. The only thing stopping me was the fear that the recipient might be unworthy. But I was sure that with an example like you, your sister would become a wonderful person. Besides, I didn't want you to be left alone."
"Now I'll make sure something of you remains," Lily said, giving her beloved a tender kiss that gradually became more passionate.
When their lips reluctantly parted, the girl asked:
"It must have been hard for you watching Tyler's attempts to get into my pants. I should have noticed your feelings earlier, but I wasn't completely sure. Besides, I'm older than you, and my head was full of other thoughts. Forgive me for that."
"It really was hard," Ray nodded. "But part of me hoped you'd choose him. He may be a womanizer, but he's a good guy. I'm sure you could have reformed him. In that scenario, I'd have had to quit."
As soon as Ray finished speaking, Lily stopped, turned to him, and said:
"I know that even now, doubts torment you. But you've done more for me than anyone ever has. And if one day you go to hell, I'll follow you—even if the whole world is against you, I'll stand by your side."
"I know our relationship might bring me pain, but no matter what happens in the future, I'll never regret kissing you that day. Even if I have to raise our child alone."
"I understand that you're scared, and your soul is full of doubt. But you're not stupid—you must understand: for you, I'm ready to do anything. So cast aside all your fears and doubts. Let's enjoy every moment we have left."
As soon as Lily finished speaking, Ray gently tugged a strand of her hair. The girl leaned forward, and their lips met.
Only after these words did Ray fully realize how lucky he was—to have met this angel on his life's path. Enjoying his beloved's kiss, he made himself a promise: no matter how much time he had left, as long as his earthly journey wasn't over, he would do everything to make this wonderful angel, who had brought color back into his world, happy.