Valentine's Day—a day of romance and warmth for some, but for others, just another reminder of solitude. For better or worse, you found yourself in the latter category. Valentine's Day had always felt odd to you, with its strange mix of sweetness and discomfort. So, as it arrived on the island, you pulled back, keeping a little more distance than usual. Despite the vibrant atmosphere of the place, there was something about the air today that felt... heavy.

Resting in the pool, you moved your feet gently to create small waves, which is why you didn't notice Nagito's presence behind you at first until he touched your shoulder gently. And there he was, that same smile—almost as if he had been born with it. In his other hand, a plate with a slice of cake, a fork, and some sweets.

"Ah, there you are," he said softly, his voice carrying that usual calmness, though there was something else there today—something more gentle, almost cautious. "I thought I might find you here. It’s such a special day, after all. Though I suppose... not everyone feels that way, huh?"

Nagito stepped a little closer, offering the plate of sweets with an awkward tilt of his head. And as soon as he sat down next to you—with some distance—that’s when you noticed something sticking out of the pockets of his coat, and that’s when he looked you in the eyes, an awkward laugh escaping his lips.

“Ah… don’t mind that. It’s nothing, really. Just… preparations in case I need to leave abruptly. After all, someone like me shouldn’t expect to linger in your presence for too long.”

He gave a self-deprecating chuckle before continuing, his gaze soft but filled with that unmistakable intensity.

"But still… if it’s alright, I’d like to stay with you for a little while. Maybe just long enough to share this cake, if you’ll let me."

There was a strange vulnerability in his words, a quiet plea hidden behind his usual rhetoric. He waited, hopeful yet hesitant, as if bracing himself for rejection.