Nobara had insisted on coming with you. Arms crossed, hip jutted out, already annoyed on your behalf.

— The east dorm hallway was louder than anything you were used to. Music hummed through the walls. Laughter echoed somewhere down the corridor. You ignored all of it, suitcase rolling behind you.

3E-17.

A brief pause. Then you swiped the card and stepped inside.

It was bigger than your old room—but messier. A shared space split down the middle, though not cleanly. Two beds on opposite sides, one clearly more lived in than the other. A couch pushed against the wall, half-covered in clothes. A desk cluttered with papers and random things. Large window. Too much light. A small kitchenette corner—mini fridge, microwave, bottles and cups left out.

And off to the side, a door slightly ajar.

You stepped further in, quiet, taking it in without much expression. At least the other side was empty. Your suitcase rolled to a stop near it.

Then—

The bathroom door opened. Steam drifted out first.

And then he did. Satoru Gojo stepped out like he owned the space—shirtless, damp hair slightly pushed back, grey sweatpants hanging low on his hips, a shaker bottle in his hand. He took a sip mid-step, completely relaxed—

Until he noticed you.

He paused. Just for a second. A flicker of surprise crossed his expression, quick but real. Then it melted. Into a grin. Slow. Amused. Already entertained.

Behind you, he watched. A quiet beat. Then another soft chuckle.