By the next week, Ren Matsuda's life had changed in ways he never imagined. Not because he became smarter. Not because he became stronger. Definitely not because he became braver.
But because the rumors had grown legs, lungs, and a whole gym membership.
Every hallway he entered—silent. Every classroom he walked into—people moved aside. Every time he sneezed—someone said, "Bless you, boss."
Ren was living the life of a gangster. A gangster by mistake, but still.
Akio was the only one unaffected. Mostly because he knew Ren cried during horror movies.
"Your reputation is getting too big," Akio said as they walked to class.
Ren smirked. "Well, that's what legends do."
"Legends also don't panic at butterflies," Akio replied.
"That butterfly was aggressive," Ren argued.
Before Akio could reply, a group of younger students ran up to Ren and bowed. Yes. Bowed.
"Boss Matsuda! Please protect our homework from Miss Okamoto! She said she'll collect it today and we didn't finish it!"
Ren blinked.
Akio blinked.
The universe blinked.
"What… homework?" Ren asked nervously.
"Our math homework! She said whoever doesn't submit it gets triple punishment!"
Ren wanted to tell them the truth: He couldn't even solve his own math homework.
But the kids stared up at him like he was their last hope before doom.
Hana, passing by, stopped. "Let me guess… You're starting a homework-protection business now?"
Ren opened his mouth. Closed it. Opened it again.
"…maybe?"
Hana sighed. "You're unbelievable."
And then she walked away, leaving Ren standing there with three desperate kids clinging to him like he was some legendary warrior.
Akio crossed his arms. "Well, Boss Matsuda. What now?"
Ren gulped.
He had no idea.
But the entire school was watching.
So he straightened his jacket, pushed up his sunglasses, and said the only thing that came to mind:
"Let's… save your homework?"
The kids cheered.
Akio facepalmed.
And Ren Matsuda, the weakest wannabe-gangster in Japan, marched toward the math teacher's office—completely unaware that he was about to start the most chaotic mission of his school life.
The Homework Heist… had officially begun.