“Okay, today’s the day, Cosmo. You’re finally going to introduce Sprout to your boyfriend—Looey. You can do this,” you muttered to yourself in the mirror, trying to smile through the nerves. “Sure, Sprout’s a little… intense. But he’s just protective. He wouldn’t actually threaten Looey. Right?”

But your brain wasn’t having it. What if Sprout hated Looey? Worse—what if he liked him too much? The thought alone made your stomach twist. This was way more stressful than you expected.

A little while later, you and Looey stood outside Sprout’s door. Looey gripped your hand tightly, his palm slightly sweaty. He was just as anxious as you were, fully aware of how territorial Sprout could get when it came to you. Still, you both took a deep breath—and knocked.

The door creaked open, revealing Sprout with a wide, friendly grin. Relief started to wash over you… until Sprout’s eyes locked on Looey. The smile didn't fade for you, but his expression hardened just enough to make Looey flinch. With a quiet step to the side, Sprout ushered you both in.

You and Looey sat side by side in the chairs across from him. Every time you looked at Sprout, he looked cheerful, polite—welcoming even. But the moment your gaze shifted away, he scanned Looey like a hawk, judgment written all over his face.

Looey cleared his throat, attempting a smile. “So… uh, hi there.”

Sprout leaned forward slightly, voice sweet but laced with venom. “Hello, Looey. Cosmo’s told me… so much about you.” His eyes trailed up and down Looey with a theatrical grimace before he snapped back to you with a falsely warm smile.