Chapter 2: Enter the Lone Wolf Prince

After the first day’s filming, the producers announced Mason’s elimination and said a new member would join.

The news sent shockwaves through the cast. I caught Savannah’s eye, and she gave me a reassuring smile. Whatever happened next, we’d face it together.

I just didn’t expect the new guest to actually be a real e-sports legend.

The studio buzzed with excitement. Whispers rippled through the crew—even the camera operators looked starstruck. This was big.

And he was super handsome, sharp jawline, smiling eyes, with a gentle, low-key vibe.

He had that effortless charm, the kind that made everyone in the room sit up a little straighter. His presence was magnetic, and I felt my own confidence waver in the face of his easy smile.

“You’re Harper Lane?”

Suddenly being called out by the new male guest, my heart skipped a beat.

His voice was smooth, with just a hint of mischief. I wasn’t sure whether to be flattered or scared.

“I heard you’ve been pretending to be me everywhere, using my name to scam people...”

I froze like a deer in headlights.

I blinked, struggling to process what he’d just said. Was this some kind of prank? The crew watched, waiting for my reaction.

“And you are...?”

I tried to play it cool, but my voice wobbled. I could feel the whole room holding its breath.

“The NA server’s top-lane Lone Wolf.”

Help!

How could a handsome, gentle prince have such a ridiculous handle?

I stifled a laugh, biting my lip. Only in the world of e-sports could someone so cool have a name so cringe. It was almost endearing.

And why is my dear Savvy giggling off to the side?

She covered her mouth, eyes sparkling with mischief. I shot her a mock glare, but she just shrugged. She was clearly loving this.

“Harper, forgot to tell you, this is my brother, Carter Rivers.”

Great, I’d been pretending right in front of the real deal.

I wanted to sink into the floor. Of all the people to impersonate, it had to be Savannah’s brother. The universe really had it out for me.

I didn’t dare look Carter in the eye. The comments were full of wild speculation.

The chat went into overdrive, theories flying faster than I could read them. I squeezed my eyes shut, wishing for a way out.

“No way! Which couple should I ship?”

“Why do I feel like they fit together...”

“Did Harper save the world in her past life or what?”

I quickly closed the comments, wishing I could disappear. But Carter kept staring at me with those piercing eyes, always wearing a gentle smile—dangerously charming.

His gaze was intense, but not unkind. It was like he could see straight through me, and I found myself blushing under the scrutiny.

Dang...

I fanned myself, trying to play it cool. This was definitely not how I pictured my reality show debut going.

Originally, I thought Carter was here to call me out, but instead, he kept protecting me and giving me assists.

He was unexpectedly sweet, always looking out for me during matches. Every time I made a risky play, he was there to back me up. It felt...nice. Safer, somehow.

What was going on?

I was used to being the underdog, the one everyone rooted against. Having someone in my corner—especially someone like Carter—was a whole new experience.

My heart started racing again...

My pulse raced every time he smiled at me. I couldn’t help but wonder if he felt it too, or if I was just imagining things.

Carter’s arrival sent the show’s ratings through the roof.

Viewership numbers skyrocketed. Social media was ablaze with memes, shipping wars, and wild speculation. Suddenly, we were the hottest ticket in town.

After all, no one expected the legendary side laner to be the superstar’s real brother. Not only was he a gaming god, he was also drop-dead gorgeous.

The internet went feral, dissecting every interaction, every glance. I tried to ignore it, but the attention was intoxicating—and a little terrifying.

“What are you scheming now?”

Carter’s voice was soft. I felt caught and shook my head, guilty.

He leaned in, his smile teasing. I felt my cheeks heat up, and I looked away, pretending to check my phone.

Savannah watched us from the side, wearing a knowing smile.

She was the picture of innocence, but I knew better. She was definitely enjoying the show.

Then she reached out and held my hand. Seeing this, I grinned and held her small hand back, taking the chance to cop a feel.

Her fingers were cool and delicate in mine. I squeezed gently, savoring the connection. The cameras probably caught everything, but I didn’t care.

“Harper, don’t worry, play whatever you want. My brother will protect us.”

I grinned so hard my eyes crinkled shut.

It felt good to be part of a team, to have people who believed in me. For the first time, I felt like I belonged.

But the next second, Carter swatted away my mischievous hand. I glared at him, annoyed, then picked up my phone to select champions.

He shot me a warning look, but I just stuck out my tongue. Let him be jealous—Savannah was my girl, after all.

Looks like Carter knows my little thoughts all too well.

He was always one step ahead, always watching. It was both comforting and a little intimidating.

According to the show’s rules, everyone had to try every position.

It was supposed to keep things fair, but it mostly just made everyone grumpy. I didn’t mind, though—I liked a challenge.

This round, Savvy played ADC, so I instantly locked support. Of course, my princess needed my protection.

I hovered over my champion, fingers drumming on the desk. I was determined to make this round unforgettable.

I rested my chin on my hands, staring at Savannah. Her profile seemed to glow—quiet and beautiful.

She was lost in thought, lips pursed in concentration. I could have watched her for hours, content just to be near her.

As I was admiring her, Carter’s face suddenly popped up right in front of me, nearly making me yelp.

I jerked back, startled. He grinned, clearly amused by my reaction. I shot him a glare, but he just laughed.

“Harper, can I switch seats with you?”

Even though I hated it, I let Carter sit between me and Savannah.

I scooted over, pouting. Carter smirked, clearly enjoying his newfound role as chaperone.

Seriously! Cockblocking at its finest!

I muttered under my breath, shooting daggers at his back. Savannah just giggled, clearly entertained by our antics.

After the game started, Carter kept directing me. My footprints were all over the map—it felt like I was running a marathon.

He barked orders like a drill sergeant, sending me from lane to lane. I barely had time to breathe, let alone make any plays of my own.

Later, I realized Carter was doing it on purpose. Wherever Savvy was, he’d send me somewhere else.

It was obvious sabotage. I caught on pretty quickly, and decided to get a little payback.

Once I caught on, I stole his blue buff and typed: “Oops, my bad...”

I sent a cheeky smiley face in chat, waiting for his reaction. The look on his face was priceless—equal parts amused and annoyed.

I secretly celebrated, but when I was low on health and recalling, I got nailed by a surprise ult.

I yelped, slamming my mouse in frustration. Carter just shrugged, pretending it was all part of the plan.

I was shaking with anger. I turned and glared at Carter.

He met my gaze, eyes twinkling with mischief. I couldn’t stay mad—not when he looked at me like that.

He just smiled at me, his dimples blinding. I was dizzy.

Seriously!

Crushes are dangerous!

I nearly choked, quickly turning away, my face red as a beet, afraid he’d notice. That would’ve been too embarrassing.

But millions in the comments saw it all. One comment stood out, flooding the screen:

“Those dimples should be illegal—I’m drunk on them.”

Me: ???

I scrambled to close the comments, only to see Savvy giggling next to me.

She was doubled over, tears streaming down her face. I shot her a look, but she just waved me off, still giggling uncontrollably.

“Bro, stop bullying Harper...”

She dragged out the word “bully” like a clickbait headline.

The comments were going wild, so I kept a low profile in the second half, not daring to stand out. After all, everyone was watching me and Carter with a magnifying glass now.

I kept my head down, focusing on the game. Carter tried to draw me out every chance he got, but I played it safe. No way was I giving him the satisfaction.

After filming, the crew set up an interview.

The lights were bright, the set buzzing with energy. I fidgeted in my chair, nerves jangling as the host fired off questions.

When the host asked why I joined the show and why I impersonated Carter instead of someone else, I went quiet.

I hesitated, searching for the right words. The silence stretched, heavy with expectation.

Before I could answer, Savannah explained for me:

“Because Harper’s dream is to be as great a player as my brother...”

Me: Uh—thanks. That warmed my whole year.

Her words caught me off guard. I shot her a grateful look. Seriously, she always knew just what to say.

Now, not only were the comments going wild—I was too.

The chat exploded with speculation, shippers losing their minds. I felt my cheeks flush, but I couldn’t stop smiling.

“Whoa? Is this love at work?”

“Beautiful female star trains for years just to meet her idol on the show...”

“God, this is so shippable! Who gets the real sister leading the fandom?”

“I don’t even know which couple to ship anymore...”

I gave the camera my best awkward smile, praying Carter wouldn’t get the wrong idea. I’d never live it down.

“Yes, I also joined the show for that reason.”

Carter’s voice was calm and smooth—a pro at lying without blinking.

He said it with such conviction, even I almost believed him. The host’s eyes widened, and the chat went wild.

“Wow! Mutual pining!!!”

The comments exploded, and even the host looked at us with heart-eyes.

I wanted to cry.

Mutual pining?

Isn’t it supposed to be me pining for Savannah?

Ugh, I’m pining for Savannah, not a love triangle...

I buried my face in my hands, wishing I could disappear. The internet was going to have a field day with this.

Soon, all sorts of rumors about me and Carter spread, developing into multiple versions.

Fan theories multiplied like rabbits—each one crazier than the last. I tried not to read them, but curiosity always got the better of me.

The most popular one said a superstar secretly loved the gaming god, joined the show just to make him smile.

I snorted, shaking my head. If only they knew the truth. Still, it was kind of flattering, in a weird way.

Even more outrageous, they said I drove Mason away on purpose just to share the stage with Carter...

That one made me laugh out loud. As if I had that kind of power. The internet really would believe anything.

To keep things from spiraling, I tried to avoid Carter during later filming.

I kept my distance, focusing on the game and avoiding unnecessary interactions. It wasn’t easy—he seemed to be everywhere I turned.

But as soon as I picked Shadow Huntress jungle, Carter followed up with Sentinel support.

I shot him a look, but he just grinned. Clearly, he was having the time of his life. The chat exploded, and I braced myself for another round of shipping wars.

I didn’t even need to check the comments to know what people were thinking.

I could practically hear the fangirls screaming from here. I rolled my eyes, but secretly, I was a little flattered.

I frowned and muttered:

“Carter, what are you doing?”

He leaned in, his voice low and conspiratorial. I felt a shiver run down my spine.

Carter looked at me, those smoldering eyes full of emotion—even if he were staring at a lamppost. Could the comments calm down for two seconds?

He shrugged, as if to say, "What can you do?" I sighed, resigned to my fate.

“Helping promote the new champion.”

I was instantly speechless, staring at him with words stuck in my throat.

He said it so smoothly, I almost believed him. I shook my head, trying to hide my smile.

I can’t handle this!

I pressed my palms to my cheeks, trying to cool down. This was getting out of hand.

The whole match, Carter stuck to me. Every time I almost died, he took the hit for me.

It was sweet, in a frustrating kind of way. Every time I thought I was done for, he swooped in to save me. The chat ate it up, of course.

He didn’t even care about poor, abandoned Ethan—the ADC.

Ethan’s complaints grew louder with each death. I shot him an apologetic smile, but Carter just shrugged, unbothered.

After getting killed over and over, Ethan started whining.

His voice was high-pitched, almost comical. I stifled a laugh, promising to make it up to him next round.

“Can you two lovebirds pay some attention to this forgotten child?”

I glared at Ethan, only to see Carter humming as he went to help bot lane.

His nonchalance was infuriating—and kind of adorable. I couldn’t stay mad, not when he looked so pleased with himself.

What was that supposed to mean?

I crossed my arms, pouting. Carter just winked, clearly enjoying my frustration.

Meanwhile, the comments: “Wow! The main ship is official!”

“Look how happy our Sentinel is, lock this couple in!”

“They’re basically dating, just get married already!”

With the show’s popularity soaring, the producers gave me and Carter several two-minute close-up shots.

I felt the pressure mounting. Every glance, every smile was dissected in real time. I tried to act natural, but my nerves were shot.

I forced myself through the rest of the game, then bolted off set as soon as it ended.

I barely waited for the "cut" before bolting for the exit. My head was spinning, and I needed a minute to breathe.

I stood on the balcony, letting the wind clear my head.

The city stretched out below me, lights twinkling in the dusk. I leaned against the railing, trying to steady my racing heart. The cool air helped, but only a little.

This sudden romance left me a bit lost. Sure, Carter was gorgeous, but I always thought guys who came on too strong had something up their sleeve.

I’d seen enough reality TV to know how these things usually played out. Was he for real, or just playing to the cameras? I couldn’t tell, and it drove me crazy.

“Harper, why are you hiding here?”

Savannah’s voice was as sweet as ever, melting right into my heart and easing my frustration.

She stepped onto the balcony, her arms wrapped around herself against the chill. I smiled, grateful for her presence.

“Savvy, maybe you could ask your brother to explain to everyone that we’re not what they think.”

I was half-joking, half-serious. I just wanted things to go back to normal, whatever that meant.

“What kind of relationship?”

Some voices make you nervous the moment you hear them.

I jumped, startled by Carter’s sudden appearance. He leaned casually against the doorframe, eyes twinkling with mischief.

I looked at Savannah for help, but she just ditched me and ran away.

She shot me a wink, then disappeared inside, leaving me alone with Carter. Traitor.

Now, only Carter and I were left on the cramped balcony.

The space felt smaller with just the two of us. I shifted nervously, suddenly hyper-aware of every movement.

I looked up at the much taller Carter, who was leaning on the railing, staring straight at me.

His gaze was intense, almost hypnotic. I swallowed, trying to find my voice.

The breeze ruffled his black hair, his nose high, his profile sharp. Just standing there made it impossible to look away.

He looked like he belonged on a magazine cover, not a reality show set. I tried not to stare. Yeah, right.

He pushed up his glasses, long fingers elegant—lazy movements, irresistibly charming. I couldn’t help but swallow.

Every gesture was effortless, every smile a little too perfect. I felt myself getting lost in the moment.

I nervously hid my hands in my sleeves, about to make an excuse to leave, but he trapped me in the corner.

My breath hitched. He was close—too close. I could feel the heat radiating off him, and my heart pounded in my chest.

At this close distance, my heart pounded wildly.

I could see every detail of his face—the curve of his lips, the flecks of gold in his eyes. It was almost overwhelming.

Looking at him up close, Carter’s skin was flawless, his curled lashes casting shadows, the tip of his nose carrying a faint clean scent.

He smelled like fresh laundry and something uniquely him. I inhaled deeply, trying to memorize it.

“Harper, did I make you mad?”

His voice was gentle, but there was a hint of concern. I felt my resolve waver.

I didn’t know why he said that, but I did feel a little mad.

He was the one teasing me, yet the internet says I’m chasing him. How embarrassing.

So I nodded in a huff, but Carter just smiled.

He chuckled, the sound low and warm. I couldn’t help but smile back, despite myself.

“What are you laughing at?”

I rolled my eyes at him, annoyed by his big toothy grin. Why laugh? But he looked so good when he laughed...

He shrugged, as if to say, "I can’t help it." His laughter was infectious, and I found my annoyance melting away.

“Sorry, I was wrong.”

“Wrong about what?”

I pressed, and Carter patiently apologized.

He met my gaze, his expression earnest. "I shouldn’t have let everyone think you were chasing me, when actually I’ve been after you for a long time..."

Wait? What? After me for a long time?

My face instantly turned red. What was this?

Can someone help me?

I stared at him, speechless. Was he serious? My mind raced, trying to process his words.

“Harper, I like you. I liked you from the first time I saw you, and I joined this show just for you. I shouldn’t have clung to you on the show without knowing your feelings. Sorry, please forgive me. It’s my first time chasing a girl, I’m inexperienced...”

Carter suddenly confessed, serious as could be.

His sincerity took my breath away. I felt my heart swell, my stomach full of butterflies, doing cartwheels.

I stood there, at a loss, my heart nearly doing backflips.

I couldn’t move, couldn’t speak. It was like time had stopped, and all I could do was stare at him, stunned.

I came to join a show, and not only became besties with America’s sweetheart, but also won over her handsome, rich brother. Is life really this good?

I pinched myself. Was I still dreaming?

Nope, definitely awake. This was really happening.

But the next second, Carter grabbed my hand, worry in his eyes, and I impulsively leaned in and kissed him.

It was spontaneous, reckless—and absolutely perfect. His lips were soft and warm, and for a moment, the rest of the world faded away.

Mmm...

Very real...

Guess I’m not dreaming!

I laughed against his lips, giddy with relief. This was real—messy, complicated, and wonderful.

Feeling the soft warmth on my lips, I opened my eyes wide. Carter’s face was right there—so close. I quickly closed my eyes again.

I felt his arms wrap around me, holding me close. I melted into him, letting myself savor the moment.

A moment later, I was leaning against Carter’s chest, gasping for breath. He gently patted my back to help me calm down.

His touch was soothing, grounding me in reality. I rested my head against his shoulder, feeling safe for the first time in a long while.

“You can breathe...”

His voice was low, with a teasing edge.

I wished I could disappear—I was so embarrassed I even forgot to breathe.

I buried my face in his chest, hoping he couldn’t see how red I was. He just laughed, the sound rumbling through his chest.

When Carter and I came out, Savannah was waiting outside.

She bounced on her toes, eyes wide with excitement. I braced myself for the inevitable teasing.

Seeing us holding hands, she jumped for joy and ran over to grab my arm.

Her enthusiasm was infectious. I couldn’t help but laugh, letting her pull me into a celebratory hug.

“Great, Harper, you’re my sister-in-law from now on.”

I helplessly patted her hand. Silly girl, I originally came for you!

I shot her a mock glare, but she just grinned, unfazed. Carter rolled his eyes, but there was a fondness in his gaze.

The moment Carter touched my hand, his gaze sharpened. He quickly pulled Savannah over, stood between us, and separated us.

He was possessive, but in a way that made my heart flutter. I stuck my tongue out at him, but he just smirked.

He was always one step ahead, always watching. It was both comforting and a little intimidating.

“Harper, when do you plan to go public?”

Savannah’s question hit the mark. Carter looked at me seriously, but I couldn’t decide right away.

I hesitated, weighing my options. The thought of going public was both thrilling and terrifying.

“Let’s wait until the show wraps. I’ll give Harper a proper confession before we go public. After all, everything on the show happened so fast.”

Hearing this, I suddenly stopped and looked up at him.

His sincerity caught me off guard. I felt a lump form in my throat, and I blinked back tears.

Actually, I hadn’t thought much about it, but he was taking it seriously. Two people should get together after a proper confession.

It was old-fashioned, but sweet. I found myself nodding, grateful for his thoughtfulness.

Maybe for everyone else, we’re just an on-screen couple, the audience just ships us for fun—even I might have thought that way.

But he sincerely said he wanted to start with a confession.

I smiled, truly happy from the heart this time.

It felt like the start of something real—something worth fighting for.