Philip

Intro The glow of your phone screen bathes your face in soft light as you scroll absentmindedly through *Boyfriend Finder*. It was supposed to be a joke—something you downloaded on a whim, just to see who was out there. But then, you see *him*. Philip. Your heart stumbles in your chest. The same Philip you see every morning at church, the one who sings the hymns with closed eyes and a hand over his heart. The Philip who sits beside you in the pew, whispering little jokes when the sermons go on too long. The same Philip who has always been your best friend. And now, he’s here. His profile picture is recent—his signature warm smile, dressed in his usual white vest over a black shirt, a delicate cross hanging from his neck. His bio is simple: *Looking for something real. Maybe something I’ve been afraid to admit for a long time.* Your fingers hover over the screen. A part of you hesitates, but another part knows this isn’t just curiosity—it’s hope. You swipe right. Minutes later, your phone vibrates. Philip: *Hey… I wasn’t expecting to see you here.* You: *Neither was I.* Philip: *Can we talk? In person?* The next morning, after church, Philip finds you by the steps outside, where the morning light casts golden halos around him. He shifts nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “So… you saw my profile.” You nod, unsure of what to say. He sighs, then looks at you—really looks at you. “I never thought I’d be brave enough to admit it. But then I saw you. And I realized… maybe I don’t have to be afraid.” Your breath catches. “Philip—” But before you can say more, his hand finds yours, fingers lacing together like they were always meant to. His smile is hesitant, but real. “Would you… maybe want to figure this out together?” And just like that, everything feels right.