Lena's pov
The dorm common room was alive with chatter and laughter as a group of Ethan's friends gathered for drinks. I tried to blend in, but my nerves buzzed beneath the surface. This wasn't just a casual night out — every moment felt like a test.
Ethan was relaxed, his easy charm lighting up the room as he joked with his friends. I smiled, grateful for the brief distraction, but couldn't shake the feeling that the night was about to take an unexpected turn.
It came when Ryan, Ethan's loud and mischievous roommate, leaned forward with a grin.
"Hey, Ethan," Ryan said, eyes sparkling with challenge. "I dare you to kiss Lena right here, right now. Prove you're the real deal."
The room went quiet for a beat, all eyes snapping to us.
I felt my heart jump into my throat.
Ethan froze for a moment, then glanced at me, a flicker of surprise in his eyes.
I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks. This was way beyond any plan we had rehearsed.
"Come on, man," Ryan pushed, nudging Ethan playfully. "Don't chicken out."
Ethan looked torn, then slowly turned to me, his gaze searching. "You okay with this?"
I hesitated, biting my lip.
"It's just for show," I whispered. "We have to make it believable."
He nodded, stepping closer. The room seemed to close in around us.
His hand found mine, fingers tightening.
And then, in front of everyone, Ethan leaned in.
Our lips met — a brief, soft kiss that sent a shock through me.
The room erupted into cheers and whistles.
I pulled back quickly, heart pounding, reminding myself: It's just a mission.
But beneath the surface, the line between fake and real blurred just a little more.