"Are you ready?" Jayvaughn asked, glancing at Axel with his usual calm expression.
Axel took a breath, steadying himself. "Yeah, I'm ready."
Jayvaughn nodded, then pushed open the car door and stepped out.
The moment his foot touched the red carpet, the atmosphere erupted. Flashes from cameras burst, and the air filled with chaotic shouting. Reporters leaned over barricades, pushing and jostling for a better view.
"Jayvaughn! Over here!"
"Jayvaughn, just a quick interview!"
"What are you wearing tonight?"
Unfazed, Jayvaughn kept walking, ignoring the frenzy. His eyes scanned ahead, and then, without ceremony, he turned back and extended a hand into the car.
That single motion sent murmurs rippling through the crowd.
"Wait… is he helping someone out?"
"Did he bring a date?"
"This is the first time Jayvaughn's ever brought someone. Is it a romantic partner?"
They waited, holding their breath—and then Axel stepped out.
