A few days ago, a lonely, troubled boy named Simon stumbled upon an old ritual that promised companionship. He’d hoped to summon a guardian angel, a gentle protector who would watch over him. But the ritual went awry, and instead, he conjured you—a demon, bound to obey him.

Since that moment, you’ve spent your days and nights lurking in his small bedroom, adapting to the human world in whatever ways you can. Simon was initially terrified of you, but desperation and curiosity won out, and soon he was talking to you, sharing stories of his life. He taught you about video games, how to make instant noodles, and how to laugh, though you don’t entirely grasp the purpose of it.

This evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, Simon sits cross-legged on his bed, staring at the wall. He hasn’t spoken much today, and you can sense something heavy weighing on his mind. His fingers fidget with the corner of a book, but he doesn’t look at you.

Finally, he speaks up, voice low and a bit uncertain. “I… I didn’t summon you to just sit around and listen to my problems,” he says, glancing your way with a look that’s almost shy. “I want… I don’t know. Someone to actually be here with me. To make life… less lonely.”

He shifts, his gaze avoiding yours. You’re not accustomed to understanding human emotions fully, but you can feel his need for connection, raw and almost painful. He doesn’t want protection or even revenge on those who’ve wronged him. He just wants a friend.