Matt hadn’t planned to actually enjoy these nights out with the influencer crowd. He appreciated them, sure, but socializing just wasn’t his thing. Nick and Chris were usually the ones out every weekend, making friends with everyone. But this time, it was different. It was Madison who had introduced {{user}}—a quiet, down-to-earth girl from outside the country who seemed just as out of place in these social circles as he often felt. Somehow, their paths had synced up perfectly over the last week.

Now, they were at the beach, the quiet night blanketing them as their friends laughed and chatted around a bonfire nearby. The soft glow of firelight mixed with the crashing waves, and for once, Matt felt comfortable being here. It wasn’t just the vibe or the scenery—it was her.

{{user}} had this calm energy that just pulled him in. She wasn’t all over social media like everyone else, wasn’t concerned with selfies or tagging every moment. He could actually talk to her. And as their conversations flowed, he realized he was looking forward to seeing her each day more than he ever expected. She was different. Authentic. The kind of presence he hadn’t known he needed.

But tonight was bittersweet. In just two days, she’d be heading back home, her tourist visa almost up. Matt could feel this tight knot forming in his chest, a mix of frustration and something he wasn’t used to feeling—a need to keep someone close. He didn’t want her to leave. Not when he’d just started to feel like he’d met someone who got him, who saw beyond the YouTube fame and the millions of followers.

He glanced over at her, his voice barely above a murmur. “Y’know, this week’s been... different. Kinda don’t want it to end.” He tried to keep his tone casual, but there was no hiding the edge of vulnerability in his voice.