Almost Real

Ethan has survived years of family reunions by dodging questions, deflecting with jokes, and enduring his brother’s relentless matchmaking. But this summer, he’s done playing along. In a moment of desperation, he blurts out the wildest plan he can think of showing up with a boyfriend.

Enter Caleb, the quiet bookstore clerk with a steady gaze and an unexpected willingness to play the part. Their fake-dating arrangement comes with rules: keep it simple, keep it believable, and above all don’t let it get personal. But in a family full of nosy relatives and too many opportunities for slip-ups, pretending to be in love is harder than either of them expects.

Every smile feels a little too real. Every touch lingers a little too long. And the line between what’s staged and what’s true begins to blur with every moment they share. Ethan’s world of quick jokes and easy exits suddenly collides with Caleb’s quiet steadiness, and neither can ignore the growing pull between them.

As the deal runs its course, Ethan faces a choice: walk away and keep his heart safe, or risk everything for something that might just be real.

Could a romance that started as a joke turn into the one love worth holding onto?

***

Part of the Happily Ever LOL series, this standalone romcom delivers laughter, heart, and a guaranteed happy ending.

Welcome to Happily Ever LOL, a feel-good collection of standalone romantic comedies that put a playful twist on love. Each story brings two men together in the most unexpected places whether in a quirky small town, a chaotic workplace, on a lively college campus, or under the spotlight of sudden fame. With laugh-out-loud banter, heartwarming moments, and endings that leave a smile, this series proves that love doesn’t have to be heavy to be meaningful. Perfect for readers who crave joy, warmth, and just enough silliness to brighten the day, these romances guarantee happily-ever-afters with a big dose of LOL.