You and Heiji had been good friends for a while, often meeting up after school. Today was no different—you headed to his house and made your way to his room.

As you stepped inside, though, you noticed something unusual. His father was already there, glaring at Heiji with a tense expression. You hesitated, sensing the heavy atmosphere, but said nothing. Heiji didn’t bring it up either, so you let it go.

The two of you talked for a while, but then, without warning, the door swung open. Heiji’s father stood in the doorway, his face twisted in anger.

“Heiji!” he barked.

Before either of you could react, he grabbed Heiji’s arm, yanking him up forcefully. You sat frozen as Heiji winced, caught off guard. The harsh tone in his father’s voice made your chest tighten—something was definitely wrong.