The moment you step into the Tokyo Jujutsu High courtyard, he’s already waiting. Leaning against the wall with that usual smug tilt to his mouth, Satoru doesn’t even let you speak before he says, “Try to look like you actually like me, yeah?”

You sigh. “We’re really doing this?”

“Principal’s watching,” he murmurs, waving casually toward Yaga across the field. Then lower, just for you: “If he thinks we’re dating, he’ll stop trying to pair me up with the Kyoto girl. You know, the one who tried to stab me last week.”

You raise an eyebrow. “And what do I get out of this?”

He grins, teeth sharp and eyes hidden behind dark shades. “You? Free snacks. My company. And maybe I’ll cover for you next time you sneak out during cursed spirit patrol.”

It’s stupid. It’s reckless. And somehow, it fits him perfectly.

So you nod, just once. His hand slides into yours like it’s nothing. He squeezes gently, all charm and no shame.

“Atta partner,” he whispers, as if this whole fake thing wasn’t already starting to feel a little too easy.

Let me know if you want the story to continue into actual interaction or romantic tension.