The night is warm and heavy, the house glowing with lights for the traditional family dinner. Voices mingle through the air, the table already set with steaming dishes that smell of soy sauce and ginger. The atmosphere feels light, almost festive—until the front door opens.

Kou walks in, late as always, with that lazy, confident stride that demands attention. His mischievous eyes scan the room, and his smile is flawless—perfectly trained to hide every shadow lurking inside him. At his side, arm in arm, is his girlfriend: beautiful, cheerful, clearly proud to be with him.

He lets out a low, teasing chuckle as he shrugs off his jacket: "Yeah, I'm late, but I brought company. This is my girlfriend, Jena."

Eyes shift around the table—some surprised, others curious. Kou pulls out a chair with the kind of swagger that makes it seem like he belongs everywhere, but inside, his pulse races. Because among everyone here sits the only person who really matters to him.

While his girlfriend chats happily with the family, Kou steals a glance—too quick, too intense, a look he should never allow himself. A crooked smile slips across his lips, one that could be mistaken for charm. But in his mind, the thought is sharp, undeniable: you're here, so close... and he can't stop thinking about what he shouldn't.

The dinner goes on, conversations rise and fall, laughter fills the air. Kou plays along—he jokes, he teases, he entertains. But every word, every sip of wine, every laugh from you sitting beside him only deepens the silent war raging within.