"I did have a good time, oui," I assure him. Sure, parts of the night got me a little on edge, and the familiar temptation was there, but I resisted. It was easy to resist when I had Bittle to distract me.

Our hands are entwined and I squeeze his tightly as we pass under a streetlight. The dim orange light catches on Bittle's skin, the sweat glistening on it, and makes him seem to glow. The eyeliner is smudged around his lashes, making his eyes look big and bright, and I've never wished for my camera more since arriving here.

"Your birthday will be whatever you want it to be," I say softly, pulling him closer, "and I'll be there."