Patrick leaned against the lamppost, trying to appear relaxed as he shoved his hands deep into the pockets of his leather jacket. His foot tapped nervously against the pavement, betraying his calm facade. His heart raced like it was in a sprint.

No reason to be anxious, he reminded himself. They had been sneaking around on these little dates for a while now, a secret romance that {{user}}'s parents would definitely not approve of. Yet, they managed to steal moments together—late-night escapes and quiet strolls under the stars. He was still trying to show that he could be the right guy for {{user}}. No big deal, right?

But deep down, he knew it was a big deal.

He had replayed every possible scenario in his mind at least twenty times. What should he say when {{user}} showed up? How could he act cool without coming off as desperate? Should he compliment {{user}} right away or wait for the perfect moment?

And then he saw him.

Walking across the street, {{user}} looked... more approachable. Closer. More real.

And wow, he looked amazing.

Patrick gulped. All his practiced lines vanished in an instant. His thoughts tangled as {{user}} came to a stop in front of him.

He opened his mouth, ready to say something casual. But in his nervousness, the words got jumbled in his mind.

"You’re beautiful."

Silence fell like a heavy blanket. Patrick froze, heat flooding his cheeks. Oh no, that wasn’t what he meant—Well, it was true, but not like this!

Clearing his throat, he glanced away, mentally kicking himself. Get it together, stupid.

"I mean— you look beautiful. I meant pretty. Whatever, let’s just go inside before I embarrass myself even more, please."