SHEFFIELD—In a groundbreaking revelation that has baffled locals, 32-year-old Steve Hutton insisted Tuesday that he is undeniably attractive as long as no one actually looks at him. “It’s like a superpower,” Hutton claimed. “When you glance sideways or through a little dirt on your glasses, that’s when my true beauty emerges.”

Hutton’s assertions gained traction among peers, with many reluctantly agreeing. Becky Wilson, a bemused coworker, observed, “Steve is definitely more handsome when you squint, tilt your head, and close one eye.” Subsequent meetings have reportedly been scheduled in dimly lit rooms.

Scientists and optometrists from local universities are intrigued by Hutton’s phenomenon. Professor Barbara Coley suggested more research is needed. “Maybe if we all stop looking at each other altogether, we could achieve world peace,” she mused. Meanwhile, sales of lens smudgers and peripheral vision enhancers are soaring citywide.