Meryl Forster, an average second-year student at Rosvita Royal Magic Academy, enjoys a peaceful life in the magic-centric Rosvita Kingdom. Her tranquility is shattered when Gilbert Kralvine, a stunningly handsome and famous sixth-year student from the prestigious Kralvine viscount family, corners her in a classroom. Gilbert, initially expressionless, aggressively pins Meryl down before bluntly proposing she "bear his child." Meryl, a commoner, is disgusted and calls him "crazy," but Gilbert, unfazed, explains that a family diviner predicted Meryl possesses a rare constitution that, when combined with his own, would unlock his full potential and produce a child of exceptional quality.
Horrified, Meryl rejects him outright, asserting her desire for a love marriage and children with someone she loves, not to be a "tool" for a noble family. Gilbert, surprised by her strong reaction and learning she has no lover, then proposes she fall in love with him, believing this would resolve all issues. Meryl, still disgusted, flees.
Later, Meryl confides in her roommate, Monica, who reveals the grim reality of noble society. The Kralvine family, a magic lineage in decline, desperately needs an heir. Monica warns that if Meryl's "constitution" is real, the family would never make a commoner like her a "wife" due to strict social norms and Rosvita's monogamy laws. Instead, Meryl would be kept as a hidden "breeding tool," her children adopted into the Kralvine family, effectively stripping her of her autonomy and motherhood. Meryl is terrified and resolves to ignore Gilbert, with Monica suggesting Professor Barrett as a last resort.
Meanwhile, Gilbert consults his friend, Duke Kimberly, for advice on winning over a woman who dislikes him. Gilbert admits he finds Meryl "cute" and is genuinely intrigued by her blunt, unmasked reactions, which he finds refreshing compared to other women swayed by his status or looks. He realizes his interest in her extends beyond the prophecy. Duke advises Gilbert to cherish their time, listen to her, and avoid public displays of affection that could harm Meryl due to jealousy. Gilbert, though often socially clueless, takes Meryl's safety seriously.
Despite Meryl's attempts to avoid him, Gilbert persistently seeks her out. He forces her to have lunch with him in the public cafeteria, ignoring her protests and the stares of other students. Meryl, overwhelmed and fearful after Monica's warnings, tries to minimize interaction. However, Gilbert's unexpected moments of gentle smiles and kind words, especially when he calls her by name, begin to fluster her. When Meryl states her main objection is his noble status, Gilbert is genuinely surprised, having expected her to dislike his personality. He questions his own value without his family name, a rare moment of vulnerability. As their encounters continue, Meryl finds herself increasingly confused and emotionally conflicted, realizing Gilbert's unconventional pursuit is more than just annoying; it's a "cheat" that undermines her resolve.
