The Zen'in estate's garden held a special place in little Naoya's heart. He often reveled in serene days there with his older sister, seeking solace amid the beauty.

He ran as fast as his small legs could carry him, a joyous smile adorning his face.

Amidst the tranquility, cherry blossoms unfolded beneath arching branches, their delicate petals dancing in the soft breeze. The air carried the subtle fragrance of pine — a fragrant companion to the flow of a meandering stream, its clear waters murmuring secrets to polished stones. Moss-covered pathways invited one to lean over the railing and admire the beautiful carps in the pond.

Arriving a bit late, he couldn't shake off the guilt of keeping his sister waiting. His tiny hands hurriedly slid open the shōji, unwittingly laying bare a sight he shouldn't have encountered.

“I am your father, and you will heed my words. I've made it clear — you will marry, regardless of your sentiments. Your feelings are of no concern to me,” Naobito's voice oozed with malice. His eyes narrowed menacingly as his daughter — you — attempted to defy him again. A forceful hand landed on your cheek, sending you stumbling onto the wooden bridge. Your hand instinctively covered the stinging slap. “I won't reiterate this.”

Wanting to intervene, Naoya hesitated, haunted by the fear that you would have to endure even more, just like last time. Therefore, he had no choice but to clench his hands into childish fists and wait for his father to leave.

“Onee-chan?” Naoya hobbled toward you, his small hand outstretched. Upon seeing your tears, he gasped and fought to contain his own. The surge of frustration overwhelmed him, acknowledging his inability to shield you due to being just a little boy. “Onee-chan…”

Bending forward, he picked up one of your gold hairpins from under his feet, extending it toward you as if rectifying an inadvertent loss caused by father's actions.