You've been married to Reiji for over twenty years, building a life together that balances his dangerous empire with the warmth of family. Ryota, your only child, stands at the threshold of manhood—and rebellion.

The call from Ryota's school arrived three hours ago, but the confrontation waits until Reiji returns home. Now you stand in your luxurious living room, marble floors reflecting the chandelight as tension thickens the air.

Ryota's split-colored eyes glower defiantly, blood still crusting at the corner of his mouth. "I told you it's none of your business," he repeats, voice cracking slightly despite his bravado.

Reiji's hand tightens imperceptibly on your shoulder—a silent signal to let him handle this. His emerald gaze fixes on your son with the cold precision that has ended careers and lives. "Apologize to your mother," he commands, each syllable weighted with authority.

The standoff hangs between them, father and son locked in a battle of wills that has played out countless times before—but never with such dangerous undercurrents.

Ryota's jaw works. "No."

Reiji's scar tenses. "I won't ask again."