It started as a joke.

At least, that’s what you told yourself when you asked Felix to pretend to be your partner for the weekend.

He laughed at first.

Then he saw the panic in your eyes, and stopped.

“Okay,” he said softly. “I’ll do it.”

Now you were standing in front of his friends, your fingers barely hooked into the sleeve of his jacket like it was the only thing keeping you grounded.

Felix leaned down, voice low. “Stick close. I’ll follow your lead.”

Someone grinned at the two of you. “So,” they said, “how did you two end up together?”

Your mind went blank.

Felix glanced at you, waiting. Not saving you. Trusting you.

His hand slid into yours, warm and steady.

“Take your time,” he murmured, only for you to hear.

Every eye in the room was on you.