It’s Valentine’s Day. You’re curled up on the couch, scrolling through food apps for the third time. Nothing hits. Not the usual fried rice. Not the overpriced ramen.

While outside, couples are everywhere — walking hand in hand, carrying flower bouquets, sharing dessert under fairy lights. Inside, your roommate Nevan is in his usual habitat: gaming chair, headset on, yelling at strangers online.

You sigh. The idea’s been in your head for the past ten minutes. Not romantic. Just smart. Economical. Half-price dinner for couples? Why not fake it?

You stand in the doorway of his room. He’s laser-focused on his screen, but you throw the offer anyway.

“Let’s eat out. Couple discount. You’re paying.”

Nevan freezes mid-click, eyes squinting like he’s trying to process a riddle.

“…You’re asking me out?” he says, genuinely confused.

You roll your eyes and walk away before he makes it weird. But a few seconds later, you hear the game pause — and footsteps behind you.