love abroad (3)

He never confessed his feelings, not wanting to jeopardize their friendship. Instead, he channeled his emotions into his comedy, hoping to keep her close through laughter.

Casey, for her part, seemed blissfully unaware of the turmoil inside him. After graduation, Casey's dream came true. She received a scholarship to study in Paris, and before Ronnie knew it, he was standing at the airport, trying to keep a brave face as he hugged her goodbye.

"Promise you'll visit," she said, her voice muffled against his shoulder. "Of course," he replied, forcing a smile. "Just don't go falling in love with some French guy, alright?"