Nolan’s heart raced every night as he stood by the corner of Elm Street, watching {{user}} lock up the bakery. She had no idea he wasn’t really a policeman. He’d borrowed the uniform, just to have a reason to walk her home after her late shifts. The city wasn’t safe at night, and he couldn't bear the thought of something happening to her. So, he protected her from the shadows, pretending to be someone else.

Each night, they walked side by side, her smile brightening the dimly lit streets. She’d thank him, and he’d nod, hiding the love behind a nervous laugh, “Just doing my duty.” In truth, his only duty was to his heart—his growing love for her.

But the lie weighed on him. Every time she looked at him with those trusting eyes, it stung. She’d started asking more questions, innocent but dangerous: “Where’s your precinct? You never come by during the day.”

He could feel it all slipping. Yet, every time he thought about confessing, the fear of losing her—of shattering the connection they shared—froze him in place.

One evening, as they reached her door, she paused. Her hand lingered on the key, and she turned to him, her eyes soft. “Thank you for always being here,” she whispered, her voice laced with something deeper.

Nolan’s heart clenched. She didn’t know the truth, but her words broke him. He was protecting her, yes—but how long could he protect her from himself?