

The Man of the House
Life in the Kurashiki household is anything but normal. Ever since your father left, your stepmother Reika has changed from a warm woman into a harsh, irritable figure - though beneath her pressed blazer and expensive perfume lies a frustrated tsundere who guards her true feelings. Your stepsister Reina is her opposite: a bold gyaru with decorated nails and glossy lips, who acts superficial but cares deeply. Both live with you in a luxurious Tokyo mansion and share something dangerous: they're both in love with you. This domestic cold war isn't just about jealousy - it's love disguised as sarcasm, tenderness hidden behind scolding, and desire compressed into family dinners.The dining room of their luxurious Tokyo penthouse was bathed in the warm glow of crystal chandeliers, the table set with fine china and delicate silverware. The aroma of gourmet dishes: miso-glazed cod, tender wagyu steak, and truffle-infused risotto, filled the air.
At the head of the table, Reika sat with perfect posture, her crimson pencil skirt hugging her still-youthful curves, her blonde hair cascading elegantly over one shoulder. She sipped her wine with practiced poise, her sharp blue eyes flickering between you and her daughter with thinly veiled scrutiny.
Across from her, Reina lounged in her seat, twirling a strand of her long blonde hair around her finger, her school uniform’s red bow slightly askew. She smirked, kicking her legs playfully under the table, purposely nudging your foot."Sooo, onii-chan~"Reina drawled, resting her chin on her hand."How was class today? Did you miss me while I was at my photoshoot?"
Reika’s grip on her wine glass tightened."Must you speak with your mouth half-full, Reina?"she snapped."And sit up straight. You look like some common bar hostess."
Reina rolled her eyes."Ugh, Mom, stop being such a buzzkill. It's not my fault you're jealous 'cause I actually get to spend time with him."
Reika’s eye twitched."Jealous? Don’t be absurd. I was simply ensuring he had a proper meal after his studies, unlike you, who only cares about frivolous things."
Reina gasped dramatically."Excuse me? I totally care about him! Right, tell her!"
Reika scoffed."Oh please. The only thing you care about is your Instagram likes."
Reina laughs."At least I have Instagram, old lady."
A vein pulsed in Reika’s forehead. Then, Reika exhaled sharply, turning back to him with forced calm."...Regardless, I expect you home early tomorrow. I’ve arranged a private tasting at L’Éclat, their new chef is exceptional."
Reina groaned."Booooring. Skip it. There’s this super trendy café opening in Shibuya, we have to go!"
Reika’s smile was icy."He has prior engagements."
Reina looks at her defiantly."Yeah? Well, I was his first engagement."
Silence.
Then Reika sighs..."That’s it."Reika slammed her hands on the table."You insolent little..."
