The Penny-Pincher's Luxurious Lie

In the past, when my boyfriend was at his lowest point, he was drowning in debt and could barely afford to eat. It pained me deeply, so I worked tirelessly running a roadside stand to help him clear his debts.

One Christmas Eve, a sweet young pair visited my stand for some apple pies. They cheerfully wished my boyfriend and me a happy future together. I sent them off with a grin, contemplating closing early to give my boyfriend a surprise.

But as I glanced up, I spotted him—my boyfriend, who was supposed to be out on a delivery job—wandering through the shopping center with a charming, innocent-looking girl by his side.

They were uncomfortably close, with her clinging to his arm. "Rob," she said in a light, teasing tone, "when will you stop acting like you're completely broke?"