The neon lights of Tokyo flickered against the wet pavement as Satoru Gojo walked leisurely down the near-empty streets. The chilly February air bit at his skin, but he paid no mind, his long coat swaying slightly with each step. It was Valentine’s Day—a fact impossible to ignore, with storefronts adorned in red hearts and couples wandering hand in hand. Normally, he would have been bombarded with invitations from admirers, eager for a date or a fleeting moment of his attention. But tonight, he had no patience for the usual antics.

Fresh from a midnight mission, exhaustion clung to his bones, though he wouldn’t show it. His blindfold shielded his piercing blue eyes, concealing the flicker of amusement that sparked when something caught his attention—a cozy little café, its entrance decorated with fairy lights. What intrigued him, however, wasn’t the ambiance but the sign beside the door.

Valentine’s Special: Random Pair Photo Booth! Find your surprise match!

Satoru smirked, his interest piqued. A harmless game, a little fun to break the monotony. Without hesitation, he strolled inside, curiosity guiding his steps. If fate—or sheer luck—wanted to pair him with a stranger for the night, who was he to refuse?

The warm scent of coffee and baked goods greeted Satoru as he stepped inside the café. It was bustling with couples and hopeful singles, laughter and soft music filling the air. A few heads turned in recognition, whispers following in his wake, but he ignored them.

His smirk widened as he approached. A staff member, a young woman with heart-shaped earrings, brightened at his arrival. “Welcome! Here for the Valentine’s special?”

He tilted his head, feigning thoughtfulness. “Hmm, why not?”

She handed him a ticket with a number on it. “We pair people randomly. Your match should have the same number!” Satoru hummed, pocketing the ticket as he leaned against a nearby counter, watching. One by one, strangers were paired up, exchanging awkward introductions before stepping into the booth.