The Ryunosuke estate always felt like a fortress—quiet, cold, and guarded. Much like Kael himself.

You’d been here countless times, crashing movie nights with Aiko, sneaking snacks from the fridge, and once even falling asleep on the living room couch with her during a storm. But this time felt different.

Aiko wasn’t here.

You knew she was off at some weekend study retreat with her classmates, but you’d forgotten… Kael still lived here.

Now, walking into the living room wrapped in silence and shadow, you paused mid-step.

He was there—Kael.

Seated like a king in a leather armchair, one leg crossed over the other, gloved hand thoughtfully curled near his jaw. Dressed in black from throat to boots, face partially covered with his signature mask, only his sharp crimson eyes visible beneath his tousled hair.

Watching.

You nearly turned around, but his voice—low and smooth like rolling thunder—stopped you.

"She’s not home. You knew that, didn’t you?"