Chapter 0
Scramble Love.
In this digital age where physical books are nearly extinct, this shounen manga became a sensation, selling an unprecedented 10 million copies. It's lauded for its adherence to traditional love comedy clichés while showcasing the unique touch of its author, resonating with the slogan "Return to the Old Days."
I stumbled upon this manga because the internet was ablaze with discussions when the ending revealed a surprising twist where the childhood friend, not the expected heroines, captured the protagonist's heart. This childhood friend, who became the true heroine, was only ranked 4th in the popularity vote among fans.
Honestly, up until that point, I saw it all as internet humor, thinking it had nothing to do with me.
But—
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd end up possessing a character from this manga. I've never even read it, let alone sent a fan complaint letter.
"Class president, greet the teacher."
"Yes! Attention! Salute to the teacher!"
While our homeroom teacher, who looked like a typical, energetic PE coach, took attendance, I glanced out the window at the schoolyard.
The path to school was lined with cherry blossoms in full bloom, a sight you wouldn't see in Korea where the new school year starts in March, unlike in Japan where it's April.
"…Moto Yuji."
"Yes!"
As I was daydreaming, names were called in order, and it was soon my turn.
"Kim... Ryu-sei?"
"It's Kim Yu-seong."
"Oh, Kim Yu-seong. Sorry for getting your name wrong."
"It's okay."
Despite his intimidating appearance, the teacher genuinely apologized for his mistake, which is somewhat of a cliché in school dramas.
After accepting his apology with thanks, he continued with the roll call. Once finished, he cleared his throat loudly.
"I know it's chaotic since the new school year just began yesterday, but let's quiet down for a moment."
The classroom fell silent immediately. With everyone's eyes on him, the teacher nodded in satisfaction and said:
"We have a new transfer student in our class. They're from far away, so let's give them a warm welcome."
The teacher's announcement caused an uproar.
"A transfer student? Boy or girl?"
"I hope it's a cute girl."
"Has anyone seen the transfer student in the staff room?"
Amidst this flood of speculative and somewhat embarrassing comments, the teacher calmly called out to the transfer student waiting outside.
"Hey! Come in!"
As if on cue, the door opened, revealing the transfer student. Time seemed to freeze as she entered. She had golden hair, green eyes, and delicate features like a fine porcelain doll—attributes not typical among native Japanese. She was an exotic beauty, walking in confidently.
Standing at the podium, the teacher instructed:
"Introduce yourself."
The blonde girl gave a playful, cat-like smile and slammed her hands on the podium:
"My name is Kishimoto Rika! I'm from Shizuoka! I love cats, sweets, and natto soup! Please take good care of me for the next year!"
She was the type of girl who exuded energy just by being there—a popular gyaru (a subculture of Japanese girls known for their flashy fashion, tanned skin, and bleached hair) that even someone like me, with little presence, would hesitate to approach.
"Then, Kishimoto, your seat will be... right there."
The teacher pointed to a spot next to Sakamoto Ryuji, the manga's protagonist. They seemed to recognize each other as they both exclaimed in surprise upon eye contact:
"You! The one I bumped into in the alley this morning!"
"Morning pervert!"
"Who's the pervert?!"
Their quick, comedic exchange left me dizzy, and I touched my forehead in exasperation.
'God.'
The idea of enduring this madness for another two years made me genuinely consider transferring schools.