Inside the limousine, Rimuru leaned back with the calm composure of the aristocracy. Mai excitedly spoke about the world of modeling and her fame, but when it came to Rimuru, he only smiled:
— My overseas investments have reached a point where calculating daily profits is just a waste of my time.
Mai stared at his flawless face with admiration:
— Don't you want to be a model? Your beauty… it's beyond imagination. If you entered this world, every billboard in the world would be yours.
Rimuru cast her a sideways glance, his voice sending a shiver down Mai's spine:
— I will only be beautiful for you, little star. The world isn't worthy of seeing all of me.
When they arrived at the school, Rimuru gracefully stepped out of the car and sent Mai to class while he attended to administrative matters. Even the strict old principal, feared by everyone, rose with a respect reserved for a high-ranking diplomat when he addressed Rimuru.
A little later, in the classroom, an unusual murmur filled the air. Renako sat at her desk, eyes vacant, face twisted in worry, until the teacher's loud voice cut through:
— Today, we have a new student. Please come in.
The door opened, and Rimuru stepped inside. Each step seemed to command the very order of the world. His tall figure, piercing golden gaze, and radiant attire stole everyone's breath. Renako felt her entire being contract with fear and humiliation.
Rimuru's voice was commanding yet pleasant:
— I am Rimuru Tempest. I like many things and dislike very few… but beware of being among the latter. From now on, keep an eye on me.
He gave a small, aristocratic bow, scanning the room before fixing his gaze on Mai. Then he addressed the teacher:
— May I sit next to Mai-san?
The student sitting next to Mai hastily moved their bag with nervous respect:
— Oh, of course! I'll sit somewhere else!
Rimuru sat gracefully at the desk, placing his bag down. While the class remained in stunned silence, he leaned toward Mai and whispered, ignoring the curious and tearful eyes of Renako just a few desks away:
— Well, little star… the stage is set. Let's see how you plan to make me fall for you. I'm waiting for your best effort.