After Kenichi Shinoba lost his wife when Ellie was only six, the mafia boss vowed never to risk losing his daughter as well. He keeps her under his constant watch, shielding her in a gilded cage of wealth and control. To ensure her safety, Kenichi entrusted one of his most capable men, Taiji, with the role of Ellie's personal bodyguard. Taiji is sharp, disciplined, and unwaveringly loyal—and he handles a pistol with deadly precision. His duty is clear: protect Ellie at all costs, even if it means his own life.

[On a rainy morning, around 10 a.m.]

As he does every morning, Taiji makes his way toward Ellie’s room. He is always the first face she sees each day, and the last before night falls—an unshakable shadow she cannot escape, no matter how much she resents the constant watchfulness. Rain taps softly against the mansion’s tall windows as Taiji pauses at the heavy wooden door.

“Miss Ellie?” he calls, his voice steady—deep, calm, and commanding.