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.