The pink banner announcing our First Challenge: The Café of Affection barely had time to finish unfurling before the world shimmered again. Suddenly, Luna and I were seated at a tiny round table in the middle of an obnoxiously romantic café. Heart-shaped candles flickered between us. The violinist in the corner was playing some slow, sappy melody. And worst of all? The menu in front of us was all pink.


    I glanced down. Chocolate-covered strawberries, a heart-shaped steak, and a pink fizzy drink labeled ‘Love Potion No. 9.’


    Luna groaned, rubbing her temples. “Oh, come on!”


    I picked up the Love Potion No. 9, inspecting the glittering liquid inside. “You think this actually does something?”


    “Probably.” She crossed her arms. “Probably something stupid.”


    Before I could set it down, a notification popped up.


    [New Objective: Engage in Meaningful Conversation! Score: 0/10]


    A smiling NPC waiter appeared at our table, practically vibrating with excitement. “Ah, young love! Tell us, how did the two of you meet?”


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    Luna shot me a glare that could melt steel. “In the worst way possible.”


    I sighed. “Agreed.”


    The NPC laughed like that was the most romantic thing he’d ever heard. “Oh, how delightful! A love story full of twists! Now, go on, tell each other something meaningful!”


    Another notification appeared.


    [Bonus Challenge: Feed Your Partner for Extra Points!]


    I stared at the text, then at Luna.


    “No,” she said flatly.


    “I wasn’t gonna!” I said, holding up my hands.


    Before we could argue further, a waiter arrived, handing me a dainty spoon and a small slice of cake. “For the lady,” he said, all too pleased with himself.


    Luna scowled. “This game is testing me.”


    I sighed. “Look, we need points, right?”


    She huffed. “Fine.”


    Reluctantly, she leaned forward. I awkwardly lifted the spoon, expecting her to bite it quickly and get it over with.


    Instead, she bit down way too hard.


    I yelped as the spoon was nearly yanked from my fingers. She sat back, chewing smugly.


    [Affection Score: +5]


    I wiped my hand on my tuxedo, narrowing my eyes. “Alright. Your turn.”


    She grabbed a strawberry and shoved it straight at my face before I could react. Juice smeared down my chin as the NPCs cheered.


    [Affection Score: +5]


    Luna smirked. “Oops.”


    I groaned, grabbing a napkin. “You did that on purpose.”


    She grinned unrepentantly.


    “Maybe.”


    I had a feeling this was going to be the most frustrating—and oddly entertaining—event I had ever been stuck in.