Cheat Million Love

Later that night, after the date with Nia, Nic received a new system notification. As expected, another passive had been unlocked—this time, it was something special: Anti-Manipulation.

The system explained that this passive granted immunity against all forms of manipulation, both mental and physical.

Nic was suspicious—this seemed too convenient. But the system replied casually, saying it was just a random gift. Even though he didn't fully trust that explanation, Nic accepted it with a smile before drifting off to sleep.

---

A few days later, Luna's personal laboratory was finally completed right next to the Unity Club. She was beyond surprised at how quickly it was finished. But everyone knew the real reason—Leona had once again hired top-tier professionals, just like when she built Unity's headquarters.

When the Unity Club members entered the lab to check it out, they were amazed by all the high-tech equipment lining the walls. Luna smiled mysteriously and suddenly locked the door behind them.

"Luna… why did you lock the door?" Nic asked, immediately on guard.

Luna walked over holding a small spray bottle. "I want to try something."

Before Nic could react, Luna quickly sprayed the mist onto his face. Nic froze, eyes closed, then slowly opened them again.

Leona moved closer, curious. "Did it work?"

Mika tapped Nic's head a few times. "I dunno. He looks the same to me."

But Lily had a different idea. She pulled a chair over, sat down, and patted her lap. "Nic, come sit here."

To everyone's shock, Nic obediently walked over and sat on Lily's lap like a spoiled little kid.

"No way, it actually worked!" Yui burst out laughing.

Turns out, the spray was Luna's newest invention—Obedience Mist—inspired by suggestions from Leona and Lily. Anyone exposed to it would become extremely obedient for a short period.

Beaming with pride, Luna declared, "It worked perfectly! Now we can make Nic do anything we want!"

Immediately, all the girls took turns teasing Nic. Jenny made him slap his own cheeks for fun, Yui put a giant ribbon on his head, Vivi gently laid his head on her lap and told him to sleep there, and Violet whispered, "You're so needy today," just to see Nic smile like a child. Everyone took turns pampering and teasing him since he couldn't resist.

Nic followed every instruction with no complaints, which only encouraged them more.

Eventually, Luna glanced at the time and realized the effect was wearing off. "Alright, that's enough. Let's get out before he regains control. Just tell him he fell asleep in the lab, okay?"

With mischievous grins, they all left the lab, leaving Nic lying on the floor. But just as Luna was about to step out last—

Zap!

Nic shot a Love shoot straight at her from across the room.

---

A few minutes later, Nic opened his eyes.

Yep, he'd been awake the whole time.

Thanks to his Anti-Manipulation passive, the mist had zero effect. But out of curiosity, he had pretended to be affected to see what his girlfriends would do.

"So… this is what it feels like to be babied," he muttered, touching his still-warm cheeks.

Even if it was embarrassing, Nic had to admit—it was kinda fun. "Felt like heaven, honestly," he said with a grin, hiding his smile behind his hands.

---

That day, Nic strolled alone through the school hallway, searching for a quiet place to relax. The Unity Club had been nonstop chaos lately, especially with Luna's wild experiments involving everyone. He needed a breather.

As he passed the music club, a gentle piano melody floated out, accompanied by a soft voice singing. The sound stopped him in his tracks. It was so beautiful, so full of emotion that it felt like time froze.

"Whoa… that's incredible. Who's playing?" he wondered aloud, gently pushing the door open for a peek.

Inside, a girl sat at a grand piano. Her long, light brown hair flowed down her back, and her plain white outfit stood out against the elegant background. Her expression was serene as her fingers danced across the keys.

Nic found himself so drawn in that he unconsciously stepped into the room, the door quietly closing behind him.

The girl stopped playing and turned. "Oh, sorry! I didn't know anyone was listening," she said with a shy smile.

Caught off guard, Nic quickly replied, "No, it's okay! It was amazing. I don't think I've ever heard piano played that well around here."

The girl gave a modest smile. "Thanks. I just transferred here, so not many people know I play."

Nic walked closer, trying to ease the awkward tension. "I'm Nic, from Class 11-A. What about you?"

"Melody. 11-B," she said, reaching out to shake his hand.

"That name fits perfectly for someone so talented with music," Nic joked as he shook her hand.

Melody chuckled. "My dad gave me the name. He said he wanted me to make the world more beautiful with music."

---

Their conversation was cut short as the door slammed open, and a tall guy walked in, clearly irritated. His uniform was sharp and neat—an obvious student council member.

"There you are, Melody," he said sharply.

Melody looked uneasy but kept her smile. "I was just practicing for a bit. What's wrong, Markus?"

Markus glanced at Nic with disapproval. "And who's this? Another 'friend' of yours?"

Nic raised his hands in peace. "I'm Nic, 11-A. We were just talking about music."

Markus scoffed. "Listen, Nic. Melody is special. She doesn't need to waste time with people who don't understand real music."

"Markus!" Melody snapped. "He wasn't bothering me. I was the one playing here. You don't get to decide who I talk to."

Nic watched her, impressed by her composure and strength.

Markus let out a loud sigh, then turned to leave. "Whatever. Don't say I didn't warn you."

As he walked out, Melody let out a long breath. "Sorry about him. He's way too overprotective."

"…Is he your boyfriend?" Nic asked carefully.

Melody smiled faintly and shook her head. "No. He's my cousin. He's been like that since we were little, always trying to protect me… even when I don't need it."

Nic nodded in understanding. "Well, if you ever need a quieter place to practice, the Unity Club is always open for you."

Melody looked surprised. "Really? You wouldn't mind?"

"Of course not. Our club is full of people who love unique things. Music would be a great addition."

She gave a warm smile and nodded. "In that case, I'll definitely stop by. Thanks, Nic."

---

After that meeting, Nic couldn't help but feel something different about Melody. She wasn't just talented—she had this warm, peaceful vibe that made people around her feel at ease. He could tell this was the beginning of another interesting chapter in his journey.

Though challenges like Markus might come along, Nic just smiled and thought, "Alright… let's see where this goes."

To be continued...