"I… I…"

It was just another ordinary school day. The bell rang at 5 p.m., signaling the end of classes, and students rushed toward the exit. However, one student headed nervously toward the school's rooftop.

(I wonder who it could be. Am I really about to experience one of those clichés? Me, who had lost faith in this world shrouded in darkness…)

My name is Rei Tsukiko. I'm 16 years old, and still single. This morning, while putting away my shoes, I found a letter in my locker. Yes, a letter, in the 21st century! I don't know who wrote it, but the handwriting was stunning. It said: "Meet me on the rooftop after class. Don't be late." There was even a little heart at the end. This is it—my first relationship! Whoever it is, I'm saying yes right away.

(Ugh, after class, all I want to do is go home. I'm a busy guy… And today, season 3 of One Punch Man drops. But, well, it's for a good cause.)

Rei arrived at the door leading to the rooftop and cautiously opened it.

(Pinch me!!!)

Standing there was a girl who could only be described as an icon. Her long, blue hair seemed to dance in the wind, as if the breeze itself wanted to enhance her presence. With her gentle, reserved smile, her bright, shimmering eyes, and her elegant figure, she seemed to defy perfection. In that moment, Rei understood why she was the most admired girl in school. Known and adored by everyone, she had quickly risen to the top five students across all grades and was also part of the student council.

Even though she had only transferred six months ago, she had already rejected every boy who had dared to approach her—no matter how handsome. She was captivating, yet almost untouchable… especially for someone like Rei, an ordinary guy best known for being the class clown.

Being alone with her on the rooftop, the girl most boys considered an unattainable dream… Rei never imagined he'd end up in such a moment.

"Uh… G-good evening," he muttered so quietly that only he could hear himself.

(What was that duck voice?! The universe gives you a shot, and you make a fool of yourself! Pull it together before it's too late! Come on, with more conviction this time! I can do this! PLUS ULTRA!!!)

Rei was just about to try again when the girl spoke first.

"… G-good evening," she replied.

Rei's eyes widened. (Huh? Is she as nervous as I am?)

(I was so lost in my thoughts that I hadn't noticed how tense she looked. She was trembling slightly, stammering as she spoke. You've got this, princess. I'm all ears!)

Lowering his head as if in apology, Rei asked, "Um, sorry… I found a letter in my locker asking me to come here after class… Was that from you?"

"Yes… yes, it was me. You can speak casually, you know."

"Hm… Okay. So, what can I do for you?"

(Drumroll!!!)

The girl took a deep breath and murmured, "Here goes."

Rei began to sweat. (What if I got it all wrong? What if she just needs a favor? I'll look so stupid... But hey, even the hottest guys got rejected, so who can blame me? Haha… Still, if this isn't what I think it is, my self-esteem is going to take a hit.)

"I… I…" she started.

(This is it!!!) Rei was on edge, but outwardly, he remained perfectly still, head bowed like a statue.

"I like you, Rei! Will you go out with me?" she shouted so loudly that her voice echoed through the now nearly empty building.

The wind picked up, blowing even stronger as if nature itself wanted to highlight the beauty of this moment. Her hair floated gently, giving her an almost ethereal glow. Her cheeks were lightly flushed with embarrassment, and her shimmering eyes, though hesitant, were filled with sincerity. That unexpected vulnerability clashed with the flawless image Rei—and everyone else—had of her.

"At that moment, I never imagined I had just signed a contract with the devil."