His Secret Online Baby Is Actually Me

My brothers esports Captain hated the cutesy aesthetic.

The first time he ever spoke to me, the guy glared at my strawberry-pink satin chemise. Just speak normally, he growled. Stop with the baby voice.

That was until the day I walked in on him, voice deliberately pitched high, frantically cooing Baby and begging for kissy-face with his online girlfriend.

After a massive blow-up with my parents, I packed a bag and fled to my older brothers esports training house.

Jake Carl, my brother, looked thoroughly defeated as he led me into the team's massive base. A few of the guys whod been mid-game immediately stopped and crowded around.

Jake, man, seriously? one whistled. Pulling girls this young? Thats cold.

Jake kicked the guy in the shin. Get your head out of the gutter. This is my little sister, Daisy. Say hi, Dee.

My brother gently ruffled my hair.

Hello, everyone, I said softly, instinctively straightening the bangs Jake had messed up. I didnt let my voice go too high, but I couldnt help the naturally gentle tone.

The boys instantly devolved into Neanderthals, jumping around, clutching their chests dramatically. Oh my God, one exaggeratedly gasped, her voice is too sweet! Im melting.

Jake pushed them away with an expression of sheer disgust, shielding me like a protective hen. Go melt somewhere else. Her voice is natural, okay? Dont flatter yourselves.

The training room door slid open.

Someone muttered, Captains here.

The joking, clamoring boys instantly snapped back to their stations, headphones on, silence returning with terrifying speed.

Jakes face tightened when he saw the man. Aaron Stone scanned the room, his gaze snagging on my pink outfit for a few tense seconds. His voice, like his impossibly handsome face, was entirely devoid of warmth.

Everyones adding three hours of drill time.

No one dared to move. The air thickened into a concrete slab.

Aaron Stone. Captain of the FLY team. A superstar, a reigning esports legend whose skill was only rivaled by his supermodel looks. And yet, his personality was notoriously cold, arrogant, and terrifying.

Sensing his gaze still on me, I took a small breath and stepped forward, offering a perfectly polite greeting. Hello, Captain.

Aaron lowered his eyes. His voice was flat. Just speak normally. Dont use that fake high-pitched voice.

I froze, stunned, my cheeks burning.

When Aaron had gone, Jake gave my shoulder a consoling pat, his voice lowered.

Dee, dont take it personally. Aaron isnt a bad guy, he just naturally dislikes girls who lean into the cutesy, saccharine aesthetic.

The other guys chimed in. Dont worry, Daisy. He hates baby voices and frilly skirts, but we love it, haha.

Jake immediately reverted to defensive mode. Last warning. My sister just started college, shes pure as snow. Dont even think about it. He turned back to me, adopting a weary, older-brother voice. Dont bother with these creeps. Anyone who hangs out with me cant be good people.

Miles, the loudest one, rolled his eyes. Chill, Jake. She probably has a boyfriend already. Just hasnt told you.

My heart stuttered. I clenched the phone in my hand, hiding the constant stream of messages popping up from my internet boyfriend.

Jake scoffed with immediate confidence. Impossible. My sister is the best-behaved kid I know.

That night, stubbornly refusing to go home, I finally convinced Jake to let me stay. Worried about me checking into a hotel alone, he found a spare bedroom at the base and threw a few necessities in.

Im right next door, Dee. Shout if you need anything.

I will. Thanks, big brother.

Only after closing the door did I feel safe enough to open my phone. The unread messages from my pinned contact hit 99+.

Baby~ We havent duo-queued yet today.

Baby, did you go out for dinner? Its okay, Ill wait for you.

Baby, its been two hours I, I kinda miss you.

HAHAHA, Baby, someone on the forums just said if your girlfriend doesnt text back for three hours, shes cheating. How ridiculous! I dont believe that at all.

I was just about to feel relieved, when I tapped the next messagea voice note. It was a deliberately husky, low whisper.

Baby, is that guy better than me? Will he buy you every single skin? Will he remember your cycle? Does he have an eight-pack?

Transfer: 0-031.40.

Transfer: $520.00.

Baby, do you do you still want me?

I quickly typed an explanation to soothe his anxiety: Don't worry. I'm visiting my brother and haven't had a Carlce to look at my phone.

He texted back, too excited to spell correctly.

Hehe, I knew my Baby still loved me. Baby, you sound a little sad, though.

I had no idea how he gathered my mood from a seven-word text, but I told him the truth anyway.

I had a fight with my parents. And my brothers friend seems to really dislike me.

His response was immediate and righteous indignation.

Dislike you? Who does he think he is?

How can anyone have such terrible taste. He needs to go look in a mirror.

If he ever says anything to you again, I'll roast him alive.

My online boyfriends trash-talking skills were genuinely the best I had ever seen. The summer after graduation, Id been hiding away, binge-playing games. After a fifteen-game winning streak, I was matched with a group who were chatting loudly but playing terribly.

We lost. The group immediately ganged up on me and one other guy, blaming us for the loss. I was never good at arguing, and every attempt at an explanation was brutally interrupted. Just as I was about to give up, the previously silent guy spoke in a low, flat voice.

Ive seen toilets in bathrooms, but never in someones mouth.

The group got defensive. Hey! Dont curse!

He chuckled softly. I didnt curse.

When the group caught the implication, they turned snarky. Why are you defending her? You simping?

Youre so good at passing the blameare you all chefs?

The guy took on three people and didnt falter, spraying them with verbal fire until they were beaten, apologetic, and gone.

I realized then that despite his sharp tongue, the man was actually a very sweet online puppy who knew how to cheer people up

Sensing my distraction, he suddenly got clingy. Baby, I want to see you.

I tried to divert the topic. On a strange impulse, I typed: You said you have an eight-pack. Is that true?

He sent a shy emoji. If I do, can we meet?

I hesitated. What if you meet me and dont like me?

How could that happen? Am I crazy?

He quickly added, a little anxiously. Baby, no matter what you look like, I will instantly fall in love with you.

I realized he was worried I was avoiding meeting him because of my appearance. I couldnt blame him. Hed asked to meet at least a dozen times, and Id deflected every single one.

Undecided on what to reply, and noticing my battery was low, I prepared to go borrow a charger from Jake.

The moment I opened the door, I walked straight into a human wall.

I looked up and met Aaron Stones cold gaze. The close proximity was jarring. His face was stunningly chiseledthin eyelids, dense, dark lashes, a high nose, and a small, striking mole on the bridge. Bold and provocative.

J-Jake Captain Stone, hi. I quickly corrected myself, feeling intensely awkward as I realized I was in a strawberry-pink satin chemise with a matching bow clip in my hair.

His most hated, textbook cutesy girl ensemble.

Aaron Stones brow furrowed, a nearly imperceptible tic. Daisy Carl?

I blinked, surprised he even knew my full name.

You can stay here, he said, his voice flat. But we need ground rules.

Okay.

First, dont try to buddy-up. I have zero interest in befriending college kids.

I nodded.

Second, minimal interaction. Try to avoid crossing paths if you can.

Got it.

Third, no cooing or batting your lashes. Keep the syrupy act out of my sight.

Right.

I watched Aaron walk away toward the bathroom.

Jake, who had heard the door, poked his head out and handed me the charging cable. Did Aaron yell at you again?

I shook my head.

Jake yawned. Aaron just doesnt know how to speak kindly. Tons of girls who confessed to him ended up crying. Be a good girl, ignore him, and go to bed.

Back in my room, my online boyfriend sent a picture.

Long, lean fingers lifting the hem of a t-shirt, knuckles pale. Under dim light, the eight-pack abs looked sculpted and defined. The shot moved lower, where the light faded, hinting at a powerful, impressive shape.

Having been raised by my very traditional grandparents in the village, I was a sheltered good girl who barely spoke to boys. Id certainly never seen this kind of visual provocation.

My face felt like it was on fire. I buried my head in a pillow. After a long pause, I managed to type a compliment.

Thats big.

Jake had been obsessed with bodybuilding lately, constantly asking me to feel his bicep. Praising a guys muscle size couldnt be wrong, right?

Its decent. Only about 18.

I was baffled. Wait, I thought you were 21?

Had he lied about his age?

The Typing bubble flashed endlessly. Baby, you really care about that number?

Actually, I was talking about the dormant state. 21 isnt impossible if I put in the work, though~ You can inspect the merchandise when we meet up.

Id never be able to show my face if I lied not the one up top

Staring at the completely disjointed conversation, my face flushed again. I was belatedly processing the implication.

You dirty old man, I thought.

I typed a frantic: Good night.

I didnt sleep well that night.

In my dream, after weeks of persuasion, I finally agreed to meet my online boyfriend at a private movie theater. But he wasnt there.

As my anxiety grew, someone tapped my shoulder. I spun around, excited.

Instead of my clingy online puppy, I was met with Aaron Stones stern, handsome face. I tried to run, but he pulled me back, caging me between his arms. He slowly leaned down, his intimidating presence fully eclipsing me.

Daisy Carl, he growled, his voice low and dangerous. Ready for that inspection?

I woke up with a gasp.

Later, while washing up, I couldnt shake the feelingwhether it was the nightmare or notthat the base's bathroom tiles looked exactly like the background in the ab picture my internet boyfriend had sent.

During my Calculus class, my phone buzzed. Jakes voice note came through: My batterys dying. Stay put at the gate, Ill be there in two secs.

I had to rush to the campus entrance.

Moments later, a white Ferrari pulled up, drawing envious stares from every student walking by. I wasnt interested in the car, searching instead for Jakes beat-up scooter.

The driver rolled down the window. Daisy Carl. Your brother got pulled over for not wearing a helmet.

Even with the dark sunglasses, Aaron was instantly recognized. A few students nearby screamed his name and rushed over.

Captain Stone! Its Aaron! Im your biggest fan!

Get in, Aaron commanded curtly.

I reached for the passenger door, but he stopped me. The back.

Once I was settled, Aaron tapped the gas, giving the frantic crowd an apologetic wave.

The passenger seat is reserved for my wife.

It sounded like an explanation, but also like a boast.

Oh, I squeezed the ribbon on my skirt, desperately trying to keep the conversation going. She must be very beautiful.

Aaron was silent for a moment. His voice was husky. Shes pretty shy. We havent met in person yet. But no matter what she looks like, shes the most beautiful woman in the world to me.

Jake had mentioned that Aaron came from an immensely wealthy family; he did esports purely for fun. A guy like this being in an online-only relationship must mean it was an arranged, commercial marriage, right? There was no way he was online dating like me

Noticing his slightly downcast expression, I clumsily offered comfort.

Maybe youve met, but just didnt recognize each other.

Impossible. People who are in love have a connection. I would know her instantly.

Talking about his girlfriend, Aarons lips quirked into a rare, faint smile. It was stunning.

But when his gaze fell back on me, it chilled instantly. Jake said you were my fan?

Why did my brother have to run his mouth about everything!

Find a new gamer to crush on, Aaron said dismissively. Hope you understandmy girlfriend wouldnt want a female fan staring at me for more than ten seconds, every time.

My apologies. I quickly looked out the window, embarrassed.

The drive to the restaurant was silent.

Once we were inside, the other boys swarmed me. Without Jake to fend them off, their attention felt overwhelming. I recognized Miles, the one whod been the most welcoming.

The others laughed knowingly. Captain, report: we have a toad trying to flirt with the sister.

I instinctively looked to Aaron for help.

We dont forbid dating in the team, Aaron said, not even looking up. His clear, sculpted fingers were tapping away on his phone.

Baby, you forgot your morning kiss today.

[Kiss emoji]

[By the way, Baby, I ran into a girl recently whose voice was a little like yours. But dont worry, I never even gave her the time of day. She was clearly faking the whole sweet thing. Yours is the real deal.]

[Baby, arent I the best? Can your loyal puppy get a hug for a reward? Still dreaming of the day we meet]

During the lull before the food arrived, Miles suggested a game and invited me to join.

I couldnt decline, so I quickly paused my chat with my online boyfriend. Im out with friends right now. Ill message you later.

He instantly transformed into a worried wreck. Baby, honey, how many friends? Boys or girls? Its fine, Im not jealous. Just asking.

Five or six. All guys

The next second, Aaron Stone shot up from his seat, startling me.

One of the teammates asked, Aaron, want to add the sister and play a fun round?

I couldnt help but feel a flicker of anticipation. As a secret fan of his skills, I wanted the Carlce to play with my idol.

Aaron replied flatly. I dont play casual games.

I showed him my game screen, trying to prove myself. Actually, my skill level is pretty decent. I wont drag you down. See?

Sorry. I dont add girls. And dont forget the ground rules.

Aaron didnt spare my phone a glance. He stood up and walked out, clearly demonstrating his personal boundaries and fidelity.

The teammates took the rejection in stride. Dont be sad, Daisy. We can still carry you, even without the Captain.

Miles, seeing my disappointment, leaned in and murmured a consolation into my ear.

I instinctively pulled away. I didnt like physical closeness with strangers.

Sister, Jake said you never play games, so lets start with something easy

Miles cut himself off abruptly, staring at my screen in disbelief.

Wait, Daisy, your online time is higher than mine!

I play secretly, I whispered, Dont tell my brother.

Miles mouth twitched. He let out a strained chuckle. Youre a pretty unique kind of good girl, arent you?

After the round finished, the boys looked at me with stunned excitement.

Whoa, the real-life version of the velvet glove wielding a claymore! Sister, with that innocent face, how is your gameplay so brutal? Youve got a little of Captain Stones style.

Too bad the Captain didnt join. He would have Carlged his mind about you.

Jake finally arrived, holding a traffic ticket and a brand-new green helmet. The guys, being good sports, quickly Carlged the subject, not mentioning my secret gaming habit.

Full and slightly tipsy, we headed back to the base. Everyone was laughing and chatting, except for Aaron, whose personal weather system was oppressive. He was glaring at his phone, looking ready to burn a hole through the screen.

Jake was confused. Who pissed off our boss?

Miles shrugged. No idea. But whoever can make Aaron Stone look this miserable is a serious threat. I bow to her!

Lets all be careful not to poke the bear, Jake warned. Especially you, Dee. Stay clear of the Captain.

I will.

By the way, Dee, youve been out for a few days. When are you planning on making up with Mom and Dad and going home?

I dropped my head, silent.

Jake sighed. Youve always been the most obedient one, Dee. Why are you so stubborn about this?

Im tired, big brother.

I forced a sweet smile for Jake and walked straight to my bedroom.

In the time it took to eat dinner, my online boyfriend had sent over a dozen messages. I started patiently replying to each one.

He sent a crying emoji.

[Baby, Wife, I lied. Im jealous. I really care, and Im super duper spiral-level unhappy.]

[Those wild boys out there are all bad news. Dont give them your contact info.]

My internet boyfriend was so agitated he was making typos.

[Why didnt anyone step in to stop the harassment!!! If I were there, I wouldnt let them get away with it!]