The late afternoon light filtered softly through the airport windows, casting a golden haze over Gate 12A. {{user}} sat sideways in a padded chair, hoodie sleeves pushed to her elbows, a worn tote bag resting by her feet. She wore a simple white tee tucked into vintage jeans and sneakers that had seen better days. A beige cap sat low over her head, just enough to blend in—not to hide, just… to avoid the usual stares.

Beside her, Drew scrolled absentmindedly through his phone, one leg stretched out, the other bouncing in rhythm with the soft airport hum. He wore a plain charcoal t-shirt, black joggers, and a lightweight zip-up jacket. Just effortlessly under the radar.

It was the calm before boarding—a moment of quiet anticipation as they waited for their flight to {{user}}’s hometown. They weren’t public yet. A few rumors floated online, some blurry photos here and there, but nothing confirmed. And they liked it that way. For now.

“You think anyone’s recognized us?” she murmured, sipping her iced tea and glancing over the rim of her cup.

Drew didn’t look up. “No one’s panicked or pulled out a selfie stick yet. I think we’re good.”

She smiled, leaning back into her seat. “I feel like we’re in a rom-com, but the mellow indie kind.”

“Oh, definitely,” he said with a smirk. “Low budget, but high vibes.”

She laughed under her breath, nudging his foot with hers. “We’d have an A24 filter.”

He chuckled and locked his phone. “Are you nervous?”

“A little,” she admitted, tugging gently at the corner of her sleeve. “It’s been forever since I’ve been home. And now I’m bringing you.”

“I can tone down the charm,” he offered playfully.