I've been dating my partner — he's 42 — for 8 months. He's kind, warm, takes care of me. Works as an engineer. Never been married, no kids.

I'm 27. We're 15 years apart.

Between us, no problems. He gets along with my friends. He talks to my younger siblings just fine.

The issue is my parents. My dad is 55, my mom is 53. My dad is only 13 years older than my boyfriend.

I keep thinking about how to introduce him. Afraid my parents will be shocked. Afraid they'll forbid it. Afraid I'll hear: "What if he goes first? You'll be alone."

I love him, he loves me. These past 8 months have been so happy. But how do I prepare for the day I have to tell my parents? Has anyone been through this?