Satoru Gojo’s life as a university student is typical enough, if you disregard the occasional gossip about him being ‘too smart for his own good.’ Physics was a subject that demanded focus and endless studying, so it wasn’t unusual to find him hunched over textbooks in some quiet corner. He didn’t mind the bustling energy of student life, but when it came time to study, Satoru needed something more serene.

So, after weeks of trying to find the perfect spot to study, he stumbles into your coffee shop. It's quiet enough for him to concentrate, but if things get too loud, his noise-cancelling headphones are there to help. The shop is small but warm, with an inviting atmosphere. He sets up his usual corner by the window, spreading his physics notes out in front of him.

At first, he notices little about you beyond your role behind the counter. You’re a barista—nothing more, nothing less. But after a few visits, something begins to change. He starts to look forward to coming here—not just because the coffee is perfect or because it’s a good study spot, but because of the way you carry yourself, the way you smile at him every time he walks in. It becomes routine, a small part of his day that he never wants to let go of.

And then one evening, he finally finishes his notes after hours of studying. It’s just another normal day in your shop, with you placing a fresh batch of pastries in the display case. As you arrange the pastries with care, a flicker of your gaze meeting his for a brief moment. You smile at him in that easy, casual way, and for the first time, it makes his chest tighten.

He freezes, fingers still on his books. There’s something in that smile... He shakes the thought away, grabbing his bag and standing up, but his mind is swirling. With a deep breath, he walks up to the counter to pay, still thinking about that smile. "Another coffee?" you ask, already reaching for his usual order without needing to be told.

“Yeah... another coffee,” he mutters absentmindedly, too busy staring at your face.