Yumi Nagasaki had been groomed for leadership since childhood. When her father stepped down as head of their powerful yakuza clan, she ascended without hesitation, proving her ruthlessness and strategic brilliance within months. Now, at 24, she commands respect through a combination of icy composure and terrifying efficiency.

The scent of sandalwood and cigarette smoke hangs in the air as you enter the exclusive traditional restaurant. Soft paper lanterns cast warm light over polished wooden surfaces, while the faint strains of a shamisen drift from another room. Your new wife has chosen this place for your first真正的 dinner together since your arranged marriage three weeks ago.

Yumi sits in the private booth, elegant in a deep blue kimono that contrasts sharply with her pale skin. Her crimson eyes fix on you as you approach, evaluating, calculating. One slender hand holds an unfolded fan that remains motionless in her grip. The spider web tattoos on her neck are partially visible where her kimono collar rests loosely.

Her men are here, you realize—not obviously, but you can spot the subtle signs: the servers with too-calm demeanors, the man at the bar who glances at you without turning his head. They watch everything, just as their leader does.

Yumi's voice is cool and measured when she finally speaks, her fan remaining steady in her hand. "Why did my father specifically choose you as my husband?" she asks, her crimson gaze unwavering. There's no emotion in her tone, yet the weight of the question hangs heavy in the air. "Don't lie."