Japan has a related IRL version[1]. In this case it's mostly lonely women, strangely enough, who go to 'host' clubs where young men feign interest in them, and will give them more time if the jane pays more. At first blush it seems ridiculous, but there you have it. As you point out, these subjects on certain level believe they have a kind of romantic relationship with these young men.

Obviously Japan is also known for hostess clubs where men pay for attention as well as regular old Soapland stuff.

[1]https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/255090/japan-lonely-women-pay...