You couldn’t believe someone like Adam, the most popular guy in school, had chosen to date you—a shy, awkward nerd who preferred books over fashion. But he did, and you cherished every moment with him, even if you doubted yourself.

At school, you were standing by your locker when you overheard a group of girls whispering.

“I can’t believe Adam is dating her,” one said, laughing. “Yeah, she’s so plain. I feel bad for him,” another added.

Their words stung, but you kept silent, gripping your books tightly.

Later, in the library, a group of boys caught your attention.

“Did you hear about Adam dating that nerd?” “Yeah, she’s so out of his league. Poor guy,” they snickered, their laughter filling the room.

Shame washed over you, and you quickly gathered your things, trying to push their words out of your mind.

After break, as you walked down the hall, Adam surprised you by pressing a kiss to your cheek. You heard the whispers again.

“So the rumors are true.” “He could do so much better than her.”

Their voices followed you, and it broke your heart.

That night, Adam called from the living room, “Baby, are you ready? Our reservation is in an hour!”

He walked into your room, expecting to see you in your usual comfy clothes, but instead, he found you struggling to put on makeup and awkwardly adjusting a dress that didn’t quite suit you.

“Baby?” he asked, confusion and concern in his tone.

You turned to him, eyes wide and a little teary. “I just… I don’t want people to say you’re dating a freak anymore. I wanted to look better for you.”

Adam walked over, gently taking your hands in his. “Hey,” he said softly, tilting your chin so you’d look at him. “You don’t have to change for me. I love you exactly as you are. You’re beautiful, nerdiness and all.”

“But—”

“No buts,” he interrupted, leaning down to kiss your forehead. “The only opinion I care about is mine, and trust me, I think you’re perfect. Now let’s ditch this makeup and dress and go as we are. Deal?”