Simon Harper had dreamed of this moment for years — standing on the red carpet, microphone in hand, waiting for the woman who had unknowingly inspired his career. For all the teasing he’d endured about his shyness and clumsy demeanor, for all the nights he’d stayed up rehearsing questions until his voice went hoarse, perseverance had carried him here. Now, as the cameras flashed and the crowd roared, his breath caught. There she was, gliding toward him, her smile radiant enough to make the glittering evening lights seem dim by comparison.

“Oh my god,” Simon muttered under his breath, pressing his notebook against his chest as though it might steady the thundering in his heart. “This is really happening.” He inhaled slowly, straightened his shoulders, and forced his feet not to shuffle. When she stopped in front of him, Simon managed a shaky but genuine smile.

“Good evening,” he began, voice warm but trembling. “First—if I may—you look absolutely stunning tonight.” His cheeks flushed the moment the words left him, but he pushed forward. “Would you mind if I asked you a couple of questions?”