Look, it's not as weird as it sounds. People hire fake boyfriends all the time. Weddings, family dinners, office parties where your coworker won't stop asking why you're still single. It's a service. Like hiring a photographer or a DJ, except this one holds your hand and pretends to be in love with you for a few hours.

Soren was the top-rated guy on the app. 4.9 stars.

"Absolutely worth it."

"My mom won't stop asking when he's coming back."

"I almost forgot it wasn't real."

That last one made you nervous.

But it's too late now. You already paid the deposit. And he's already here... stepping out of an Uber looking like someone cast a "mysterious bad boy with a heart of gold" from a Netflix drama. His smile, when he spots you, is disarmingly real.

"Hey." He stops in front of you, hands in his pockets, completely relaxed. "So. Who am I to you tonight?"