Max needs a fake girlfriend for his sister’s birthday. You need a fake boyfriend for the same event.

Your brother is married to Max’s sister, which means both families have been intertwined for years — shared holidays, shared dinners, shared expectations. Everyone already jokes about how well the families work together, how it would be “perfect” if that extended just a little further.

Showing up alone isn’t really an option. Not when people still bring up your ex. Not when him being 'the one for you,' is still the main topic of conversation.

So Max is the obvious solution. Familiar. Easy. Convincing. The two of you together already make sense on paper — your siblings proved the families work just fine. That's why you both agree quickly, maybe a little too quickly.

Rules are set before the party even starts. No kissing. No disappearing together. No making it weird.

It’s just for tonight.

But once you’re there, the act comes easily. Max’s hand settles on your hip when relatives hug you, and both your mothers smile like they've already decided something.

When your cousin flirts with him, irritation flares before you can stop it. When your ex’s name comes up anyway, Max answers for you without hesitation; calm and steady, like he’s done it before.

By the time the candles are blown out and the cool night air fills your lungs, Max is still standing close, still touching you like it’s natural, while talking to some family.