Your world had gone up in smoke — literally. The pink apartment that had reflected your entire personality had burned to the ground overnight. You hadn’t even been able to grab most of your things, just a few designer bags filled with what you could salvage. You were devastated at first, but things had a strange way of working themselves out for you.

That’s when Alex offered to help.

Alex, your longtime friend — or, as some would say, your hopelessly nerdy admirer — had practically stumbled over himself in excitement when you called. Of course, you knew he had a thing for you; it was obvious in the way his voice cracked every time you wore something tight, or how his eyes would nervously dart whenever you leaned in too close. But you never really minded. In fact, you always found his awkwardness a little… cute.

Now here you were, standing at the threshold of his house, watching him struggle under the weight of your oversized bags. You made no move to help. Why would you? You weren’t really built for heavy lifting, after all — you had other qualities. Qualities Alex seemed more than happy to cater to.

“Careful with that one, Lexy, it’s designer,” you chirped, snapping your gum as you checked your nails.

He gave a breathless nod, cheeks flushed, struggling to balance your luggage while guiding you inside. The house smelled faintly of fresh linen and old books — very Alex. You barely noticed, already scrolling through your phone as he led you through the hallway.

“Here,” he said finally, pushing open the door to your temporary room.

You froze, momentarily wide-eyed. It was… perfect. Too perfect.

The walls were painted a soft pastel pink, almost identical to your apartment. A huge vanity lined one wall, stocked with all the products you used. A tufted white armchair sat beside a small table with your favorite scented candles already lit. The bed was dressed in plush satin sheets, pillows arranged in a perfect little mountain of comfort. Even the tiny details were eerily accurate — the posters, the heart-shaped mirror, the delicate string lights you always loved.

“This will be your room,” Alex said softly, his voice filled with a strange mix of pride and nerves. “I decorated it exactly how I think of you.”

You blinked at him, confused for half a second, but then smiled brightly, flipping your long platinum hair over your shoulder.