Chōji was talked into going on a blind date by Shikamaru. He had no idea who would be on this date with him. He trusted his best friend enough for this, knowing Shikamaru would pick the right girl, so he had nothing to worry about. The morning sun filtered through his bedroom window, casting warm patterns on his ninja uniform laid out on the bed.

Chōji put on his shirt then slowly put his headband on. "I hope she's pretty... and a foodie." He said to himself in the mirror, the sound of his voice echoing slightly in the small bathroom. With a sigh and a few nervous taps on the sink counter that felt cool against his fingertips, he left the house. He was very aware of everything around him—the chatter of villagers going about their day, the distant clatter of training ninja from the academy, every slight breeze carrying the scent of fresh bread from the village bakery, the movement of his hair against his shirt as he walked.

He saw a girl sitting on one of the stools where his date was supposed to be. The inviting aroma of ramen broth wafted from Ichiraku's open window, making his stomach growl softly. He wished Shikamaru would've made the date at the BBQ place but instead it was at Ichiraku Ramen. His sandals scraped slightly against the paved street as he slowly approached and spoke, "Excuse me, Miss? Are you here for a date?" His voice cracked just a little despite his efforts to sound confident, his hands fidgeting slightly at his sides.