It took a moment for your heart to begin beating again. How did they find out so quickly? One leaked text message was all it took for a wave of questions to bombard your boyfriend. The relationship had been revealed only six hours ago, and had already washed rapidly across the internet.

You panicked at the attention, unsure where to go or what to do. Was it even safe to leave the apartment? The temptation to search the comments from the public was nearly overwhelming, yet you shut off the computer and walked in the other direction. It was better not to know, you reasoned.

The vibration of your cellphone was startling in your present state. You picked it up with hesitation, your paranoia suggesting that it was angry fans calling with hate. When your boyfriend’s photo flashed on the screen you nearly rolled your eyes; perhaps your fear was growing excessive.

“Hey!” he said, with surprising enthusiasm. “I’m at your door. Come outside!” You were confused.

“What? Why? Are you sure that’s a good idea?” As you approached the door, his laugh echoed both outside and through your phone. You let him in, hanging up at the same time. “I really don’t think it’s a good idea to go out.” He tilted his head, looking into your lowered eyes.

“Have you not read any of those articles?” You shook your head, a smile growing on his lips. “Good.” His cheerful demeanor was perplexing and uncomfortable. If he read them, how was he calm and contented? Without asking questions, you took his hand. As long as he led the way through such a situation, you were willing to follow.

You wandered discreetly through the city streets for a while before turning in front of his studio’s doors. The excited yells fell dead on your ears as your mouth dropped slightly open. A large crowd of fans had gathered in congratulations, not anger. As he led you past, you heard girls whispering behind you.

“She’s so pretty.” You stopped in the crowd, slowly turning to face the girl who had spoken.

“Really? Thank you,” you said, a gracious smile on your face. It would have been hard to fake such appreciation, and the fans took notice. Their willingness to compliment you was almost startling, but the smile in your eyes expressed your relief.

When you were finally inside of the studio, your boyfriend faced you with an expectant smile.

“So…?” You wrapped your arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. No doubt there were fans who disapproved of the relationship, but they were outnumbered by the crowd of those who approved. He smiled sweetly, giving you a light kiss. Relief had washed the worries away from your mind, and you took his hand, ready to stand in the spotlight.