Paris Hilton and Benji MaddenParis Hilton has dismissed suggestions that her relationship with Benji Madden is a publicity stunt.

The couple got together late last month just weeks after the Good Charlotte star split from fiancee Sophie Monk and last week were spotted wearing rings featuring the other’s initials.

But even though Paris recently took part in Ashton Kutcher’s new fake celebrity stunts show Pop Fiction, she insists their relationship is “not a hoax” and told On Air with Ryan Seacrest recently: “We’re really happy. He’s a great guy.”

“He’s been my friend for a couple of years now, and we’re really happy.”

She added that wearing the “BM” and “PH” rings was his idea: “That was a very special present I got. He’s really sweet.”

Paris and Benji joined his brother Joel Madden and fiancee Nicole Richie in celebrating the opening of the brothers’ first DCMA Collection clothes store in Los Angeles on Friday night - but while Nicole is staying at home in new daughter Harlow when the brothers go on tour with their band Good Charlotte later this month, Paris is going to join the band on the road.

She told People magazine: “We’re actually leaving in a couple days for South Africa, so I’ll be with him.”

“I’m just happy to be together, so no matter where we are, we’ll have a great time.”