SleepyStaticVoid

Ethan Cole thought dying was the end—until he wakes up in the body of a bullied college nobody in a city where social status means everything. All he wants is to keep his head down and live his second life quietly.

But after he’s forced into a public proposal to the campus “Ice Queen”—and she actually says yes—Ethan’s new world flips upside down.

That’s when the Life Upgrade System awakens. Every achievement, challenge, or relationship milestone lets him draw a new skill—from everyday talents to rare, game-changing abilities. The higher the stakes, the better his chances—but every draw is a gamble.

As Ethan’s reputation skyrockets, he’ll have to navigate jealous rivals, campus scandals, and the growing attention of some of the school’s most extraordinary girls. All while trying to finally live life on his own terms, one draw at a time.

-

Hey everyone! Quick heads-up—I’m going to rewrite the story from Chapter 1 and add full isekai and system elements.

First 5 chapters will be updated soon. Thanks for reading and I hope you’ll stick around for the new version!

—SleepyStaticVoid

I Became the Ice Queen’s Fiancé—And Everyone Else Is Jealous

Ethan didn't see it coming. He was halfway to the cafeteria when Derek, Tyler, and Mark stepped into his path, wearing matching smirks.

"Well, look who it is—the campus superstar!" Derek drawled, voice dripping sarcasm. "Shouldn't you be off rehearsing for your next photo shoot with the Ice Queen?"

Mark snickered. "He probably has her on speed dial. Hey, Ethan, what's it like being a professional lapdog?"

A few students nearby slowed to watch. Ethan could feel the old anxiety creeping in—but something had changed. He stood straighter, met their eyes, and shrugged.

"Honestly?" Ethan said, voice calm. "Better than being known for peaking in high school."

A ripple of laughter from the crowd. Tyler scowled. "Oh, so you think you're special now, huh?"

Ethan smiled, just a hint of mischief. "I don't need to be special to stop letting guys like you run my life. Kind of freeing, actually."

Mark tried to shove him, but Ethan sidestepped easily, thanks to his growing confidence and sharper instincts.

From the corner of his eye, Ethan saw Claire and Logan watching. Claire's worried frown faded as she caught the tone in his voice; Logan grinned, practically vibrating with excitement.

Derek tried one more time. "Careful, Cole. You're only popular because people want to see how hard you'll crash."

Ethan's reply was ice-cold: "If you're waiting for me to fall, you'll be stuck in the same place forever. I'd rather move forward—even if it means leaving some people behind."

A few more students started clapping, clearly enjoying the show. The bullies exchanged uncertain glances, suddenly looking much smaller.

Logan sauntered over, clapping Ethan on the back. "Dude, that was beautiful. You want to teach me how to do that?"

Claire smiled softly. "Proud of you," she whispered.

[Confrontation Event: Publicly Faced Down Bullies Without Losing Composure!]

[Skill Draw Available. Choose one:]

[Skill 1] Intimidating Presence (Uncommon)

People think twice before messing with you, even in groups.

[Skill 2] Group Command (Uncommon)

Your words naturally take charge in any tense group situation.

[Skill 3] Rumor Shield (Uncommon)

Negative rumors about you lose traction; your reputation stabilizes, even when targeted.

Ethan glanced at his friends—finally friends who stood beside him—and chose [Skill 3] Rumor Shield. For once, he wasn't afraid of what people said behind his back.

[Skill Acquired: Rumor Shield (Uncommon) — Negative rumors about you lose traction, your reputation stabilizes, even when targeted.]

He walked into the cafeteria with his head high, the laughter of his old self echoing only as a memory.

Not That Guy Anymore