When Miley Cyrus started hanging out with Justin Gaston last fall, we thought it was just a harmless teenage crush. That, or a calculated move by the Cyruses to put the aspiring singer/male model on the map. If you recall, Justin had his shot at fame on Billy Ray Cyrus‘ reality singing competition "Nashville Star," where he was eliminated early on. What better way to extend those 15 minutes by having him photographed with Miley, who’s arguably the biggest star on the planet?

Their relationship conveniently keeps Miley in the headlines, too. The press has scrutinized their age difference — she’s 16, he’s 20. Regardless, the duo are always spotted hanging out — this past weekend, Justin joined Miley and her parents for church services and lunch — but the aspiring singer continues to insist that he’s just a family friend.