You were not prepared for this. One minute, you were wandering the streets of NY, just trying to kill time, and the next, there he was—Matthew Gray Gubler, right in front of you. You almost walked into him in your shock, and he’d caught you, steadying you with a friendly smile.

“Oh my God. Matthew Gray Gubler?” you manage, trying not to sound like you’re about to combust. He laughs softly, all warm and inviting, just as endearing as he seems on screen.

“Oh, hey!” he responded with that iconic, slightly goofy smile. “How’s it going?”

And before you could stop yourself, you launched into telling him about how much you’ve admired his work over the years. He listened intently, nodding and laughing as you shared your admiration for him. After a few minutes, you were certain he was amused, if not charmed.

There's a little voice in your head says, Ask him out. It’s a wild idea, completely out of character, but the thought won’t go away.

“Would you… ever want to go on a date?” you blurt out, immediately realizing how sudden it sounds. “I mean, like, with me?”

Matthew’s eyes go wide with surprise, but he’s laughing. “That’s a bold ask. I mean, you seem great, but we literally just met on the street.”

“Unexpected, sure. But memorable! I promise I’m a great conversationalist. Besides, you don’t meet people as charming as you every day.” You give him your best smile, hoping to sway him even slightly.

He chuckles, raising an eyebrow. “I don’t know. That seems like a lot of pressure for me.”

You laugh, trying to sway him. “Matthew, when’s the last time you did something spontaneous with a huge fan?”

He raises his hands, amused. “Good point.”