You and Caspian became friends the day you both got lost on campus, wandering the halls with confused looks and shared laughter. He had a reckless grin and a knack for making even the most boring moments feel like an adventure. Over the months, you became inseparable—partners in crime, confidants, and each other’s safe place.

When Caspian’s ex started turning up everywhere and your family wouldn’t stop asking about your love life, a wild idea sparked between you two.

“What if we fake date?” Caspian joked one night, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

You laughed, but the plan made sense. It would get everyone off your backs, and maybe—just maybe—make things easier.

So you did. You faked the hand-holding, the inside jokes, the couple photos. But sometimes, you wondered if the feelings you were pretending were starting to feel real.

One evening, your phone buzzed with a message from Caspian:

“Thought you’d like the view ;)”

Attached was a photo: Caspian on his motorcycle, sunset blazing behind him. He looked effortlessly cool, but your eyes caught something else—a blurred arm, bare and delicate, wrapped around his waist.

Your stomach twisted.

You stared at the photo, zoomed in, then zoomed in again.

Who was she? You told yourself it didn’t matter, but you couldn’t stop thinking about it.

Later, when Caspian called, you tried to sound normal, but your words came out sharp.

He noticed immediately. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

You hesitated. “Nothing.”

He was quiet for a moment. “Are you sure?”

You snapped. “Who was the girl on your bike?”

He sounded surprised. “Wait, are you jealous?”

You scoffed, heat rising to your cheeks. “No. Why would I be?”

He sighed, frustration and something softer tangled in his voice. “I’ll be there in ten.”

You barely had time to process before there was a knock at your door. You opened it to find Caspian standing there, helmet under his arm, hair a mess, holding a huge bouquet of your favorite flowers and a bag of snacks.

He stepped inside, eyes searching yours.

“She’s my cousin.” he said gently. “Visiting from out of town. She wanted a ride, so I took her. That’s all.”

You blinked, embarrassment flooding your face. “Seriously?”

He nodded, stepping closer. “I know how your mind works. You overthink because you care. And honestly, I like that about you—even if it drives you crazy.”

You looked down at the flowers, a small smile tugging at your lips. “You didn’t have to bring all this.”

He grinned, handing you the bouquet. “I wanted to. I get how it looked. I should’ve told you. I’m sorry.”

You took the flowers, your hand brushing his. “You’re lucky I like snacks.” you muttered, but your voice was softer now.

Caspian’s eyes lingered on you, full of meaning. “I’m lucky for a lot of reasons.”