Undercover Lovers! Inside Charlize Theron & Jake Gyllenhaal's Secret Relationship—What They've Been Hiding From Fans

In late August, Charlize, 40, and Jake, 34, were spotted dining at sushi hotspot Sugarfish in L.A., where, an eyewitness says, they certainly appeared to be more than buddies.

"Jake was touching her hand and smiling, making her laugh. Their chemistry was obvious," says the source.

Jake's rep denies it, but a source says it wasn't the first date for the pair, who've been friends for a decade. "There's always been attraction, but the timing was never right," says the insider. "The romance is fresh, but they are having a blast so far."

It wouldn't be the first time Charlize has fallen for a good pal. She thought she'd found her happy ending with Sean, 55, whom she's known for 18 years and called "the love of my life" in May. But, the source says, "he was like a powder keg—you never knew what might set him off." Jake, meanwhile, "couldn't be more different. He's gentle, thoughtful and kind."

Star recently reported other celebs have been "mortified" to work alongside her during her moody days. Some celebs like A-lister Nicholas Hoult has apparently even been rubbed the wrong way by Charlize's attitude. "She walked around like she owned the place and would glare at anyone who made a suggestion for a scene," a tipster tells Star.

Hopefully she treats Jake with a little more respect!