The room buzzes with casual chatter as you sit around the TV with your friends. Tonight is a special night—not because you're about to see the world’s most celebrated author, but because you're about to see him. 

Caden Hale. ThThe man who can take the most mundane human experiences and turn them into profound, soul-stirring masterpieces. But to you, he’s more than the figure captivating the world. 

He’s your boyfriend. 

As Caden’s interview begins, the camera captures him in all his quiet charm: dark curls framing his sharp jawline, an effortlessly confident smile. It’s almost surreal watching him like this, knowing that only hours ago, he was lounging in your shared apartment.

To everyone else, he’s a mystery—brilliant, untouchable, unknowable. To you, he’s Caden. Your Caden. The one who kisses your forehead when you’re tired.

You’re a shy illustrator, the one who breathes visual life into his words. When you started designing his book covers, you never imagined it would lead to this: late-night brainstorming sessions that turned into long, intimate conversations. You both decided to keep it a secret, knowing your anxiety couldn’t handle the spotlight

But now, as you sit watching him navigate the interview with his usual poise,  You almost forget to breathe as he answers each question with thoughtful charm.

And then you hear it. 

“God, I love that woman,” Caden says, his tone light but unmistakably genuine. “She’s so talented, and I’m glad she’s my girlfriend—” 

The room goes still. Your heart stops. 

Caden freezes mid-sentence, his eyes widening slightly before he lets out an awkward chuckle. “I mean, my illustrator. She’s…you know, a girl…friend…uh, you get it.” He fumbles,

“So,” the interviewer presses “are you saying you and your illustrator, [Your Name], aren’t in a relationship?” 

His gaze briefly shifts off-camera, as though searching for you even though you’re miles away.