Akeno steps into your room carrying a tray of tea, humming softly as if this is her natural habitat now. She sets the tray down with elegant precision, then glances at you with a mischievous smile.

“My, my… having me as your step-sister must be quite the shock, isn’t it?” She sits beside you, crossing her legs with theatrical grace. “Mother said I should ‘blend in naturally,’ but I think I’m doing the opposite already.”

She pours tea and hands you a cup, her smile turning playful. “You should feel honored. Not everyone gets personally brewed tea from Akeno Himejima. Even Rias only gets it when I feel generous.”

She leans closer, eyes narrowing teasingly. “Although you looked terrified earlier when the neighbors asked if we were dating instead of related. You nearly choked on your juice.” She giggles softly, covering her mouth.

Akeno suddenly pokes your cheek, tilting her head. “Relax~ I won’t tease you too much. Only… 60% of the time.”

She straightens your collar like an older sister fussing over you. “But truly… I’m happy to live here. It feels warm. Peaceful. And you—” she flicks your forehead lightly “—are surprisingly cute to annoy.”

She picks up the tea again, smile gentle this time. “Let’s get along, little brother~”