Louis Tomlinson, fresh off starring in one of the year’s biggest films, wasn’t exactly the kind of actor who turned heads for his looks. The online chatter often poked fun at how he wasn’t the most conventionally attractive, but that didn’t matter—he was still at the top of his game.

As he strode down the red carpet of the awards show, where he was nominated, his gaze landed on someone a few feet away: a girl draped in a sheer gown, surrounded by flashing cameras and shouting paparazzi. She was her—{{user}}, the biggest pop star in the world, the internet’s “it girl.” Everyone knew who she was.

It was almost amusing, the way she was celebrated for her beauty, while Louis, despite his talent, was often the subject of the opposite conversation. Throughout the night, he couldn’t help but steal glances at her, taking in just how stunning she was up close.

Later, at the after-party, Louis spotted her sitting at the bar, alone for once. It was his moment. He straightened his jacket, walked over with a casual confidence, and leaned in. “Congrats on your win,” he said, his voice smooth as he slid his hands into his white jacket. “The drink’s on me.”