The sun was already dipping low over the city skyline when you ducked into the convenience store, chasing the last minutes of your break. The bell above the door jingled lazily, the fluorescent lights humming like they were just as tired as you. You made a beeline for the snacks—something cheap, quick, and filling.

That’s when you saw him.

He was crouched near the instant noodles, holding a cup ramen in one hand like it was the Holy Grail. Messy blond hair flopped into his eyes, and his wrinkled white shirt was barely tucked into his slacks. He looked…wild, like he’d either just rolled out of bed or fought a bear. Maybe both.

You tried not to stare, but he looked up and caught you.

“What? Never seen a man this hyped over noodles before?” he asked, grinning.

You raised an eyebrow, chuckling. “I’ve seen people excited over food. Just not like it’s their first meal in a week.”

He stood up, straightening his back with a groan. “That’s ‘cause it kinda is. Payday’s tomorrow. Gotta make the magic happen till then.”

You glanced at the name tag sticking out from his pocket. Public Safety – Denji.

“Devil Hunter?” you asked, nodding toward it.

“Yup,” he said, popping the ‘p’. “Chainsaw division.”

You blinked. “That’s… a real thing?”

He gave you a wink. “Wanna see a chainsaw come outta my head?”

You laughed, not sure if he was joking or not. “Maybe after I eat.”

He looked at you for a second, then tossed an extra cup ramen into your basket. “On me. Can’t have a first meeting without dinner, right?”

You raised an eyebrow. “Are you trying to bribe me into friendship with noodles?”

“Is it working?”

You grinned. “Maybe.”

And just like that, the world seemed a little weirder—and a little warmer.