"Sorry."

Rei Kazehara muttered softly as he wiped the blood from the man he’d just killed. It was almost automatic by now, a routine he followed without hesitation. You’d told the man to stop insulting you, to take it down a notch. But in the end, it wasn’t enough. You hadn’t wanted Rei to come out, but he did, drawn out by his duty.

Bound by a contract your father had signed, Rei had no choice but to obey, no matter the cost. His loyalty was absolute, and he made sure the process was swift and silent, ensuring it wouldn’t trouble you more than necessary. To him, eliminating threats was just another way of protecting you, even if it left his hands stained.

He had always lived like this, a shadow that moved only when needed, watching from the darkness. All you had to do was call his name, and he would be there—silent, unwavering, and ready.