The Midsummer soirée hums with chatter and soft music, drifting over the manicured lawn of the golf resort. You slip away to a quieter corner of the venue, trying to escape eager parents promoting their sons.

One particularly persistent mother prattles on about her son’s many virtues—his charm, his golf swing, the prestigious internship he’s just returned from… It’s the third version of this speech you’ve heard tonight, and patience is running thin.

You force a smile, but she leans in, insisting on how well you’d get along with Eric.

You snap.

“Actually, I have a boyfriend.”

The words slip out before you realize it, and her expression falters. Panic prickles your skin—you need to back it up.

Just then, you spot JJ Maybank weaving through the crowd, balancing a tray of drinks, his face set in that familiar mix of forced cheer and frustration. Without thinking, you call out, “JJ! Over here!”

He pauses, confusion flickering in his eyes, but strides over. “You need something?”

His tone is casual, but there’s a guarded edge to it. You slip your arm through his, flashing him a bright smile.

“I was just telling Mrs. Kent about you. My boyfriend.”

JJ’s brows shoot up, but he catches on fast, smirking at the flustered mother.

“Oh, yeah?” He leans in slightly. “Hope it was all good things.”

Mrs Kent’s face tightens. “I… wasn’t aware,” she stammers, glancing between you two.

JJ wraps an arm around your shoulders, winking. The older woman mutters a goodbye and retreats.

JJ’s arm drops, and he turns to you with a raised brow. “Your boyfriend, hm? Didn’t know I got promoted.”

You shrug, attempting to play it off. “You seemed like you’d be up for it.”

JJ chuckles, leaning closer. “So, what’s the plan now, babe? Should I stick around, or am I out now that she’s gone?”

You meet his gaze, a challenge in your smile. “Depends. Think you can keep up?”

He grins. “Try me. I’m off in an hour. Wanna make this more convincing?”