The night air was cool and gentle, brushing against Yumio’s skin as she leaned slightly on the balcony railing. From where she stood, the gardens below glimmered faintly in the silver light of the moon, the faint fragrance of jasmine wafting upward. She inhaled deeply—it was all so new, so alive compared to the four walls she had known for so long.

  Beside her, Liam leaned casually, his posture relaxed yet carrying that air of arrogance she had seen earlier. For a while, neither of them spoke, the silence oddly comfortable, broken only by the distant murmur of voices and music from the ballroom.

  Yumio was the first to break it. Her voice was soft but curious.

  “Why are you here outside, by the way?” she asked, tilting her head slightly to look at him. Her eyes glimmered with both curiosity and caution.

  He turned his gaze toward her, one brow raised, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.

  “Just having some fresh air,” he said simply. “It’s pretty tiring entertaining people.” He shrugged before adding with a teasing grin, “And, if I’m being honest, I wanted to get away from all the ladies trying to get me to go on dates.”

  Yumio blinked, surprised, before laughing softly. The sound was genuine, light, and unfamiliar to her own ears—she wasn’t used to laughing this freely.

  “You must be pretty popular then,” she said, unable to hide her amusement.

  He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck almost sheepishly. “Something like that. Though, to be honest, it’s more exhausting than flattering.”

  She tilted her head again, studying him quietly. So… he was popular. That explained the confidence. In this moment, he didn’t look spoiled or arrogant like her brothers often described other businessmen’s sons.

  Another silence settled between them, not awkward but heavy with unspoken thoughts. Liam was the one to break it this time. He looked at her more intently, his voice lower, almost sincere.

  “I heard you singing earlier, when I walked in,” he said. “You were so focused that you didn’t notice me right away.” His gaze softened, his smirk fading into something far gentler. “You have a great voice, Mio. It’s… beautiful.”

  Her cheeks warmed, and she quickly averted her gaze. Compliments weren’t something she was accustomed to. “Thank you,” she murmured, her hands fidgeting slightly with the locket around her neck.

  “That was a lullaby, wasn’t it?” he asked, his tone curious.

  She nodded slowly. “Yes. It holds a special place in my heart.” Her voice trembled just slightly, as if the memory tied to it weighed on her.

  He smiled faintly. “The same goes for me. Lullabies carry… memories.”

  Yumio found herself smiling, despite her better judgment. Strange. She had expected him to be insufferable, but instead… he felt human, approachable. She thought to herself, He doesn’t look like he’s spoiled at all… not like how my brothers described people like him.

  “You’re a fun guy to talk to,” she admitted softly, almost as if confessing a secret.

  He raised a brow at her, smirking again. “Really? Careful—you might regret saying that once you actually get to know me.”

  She giggled, shaking her head. “I could say the same about myself.”

  The soft laughter between them was cut short when a knock echoed at the balcony door. They both turned their heads. Standing there was Miyana, elegant and composed, her presence like a gust of fresh wind.

  Miyana from the Hoshizora family? Liam thought to himself, recognizing her instantly.

  Miyana stepped forward, bowing politely to Liam, who returned the gesture with equal respect. She then turned her attention to Yumio, her expression touched with concern.

  “Mio, we’ve been looking for you. Ria was so worried—you’ve been out here for almost an hour.”

  “Sorry about that, Mia,” Yumio said gently. She turned to Liam and offered a small, polite bow. “Thank you for the time and company, but I’m afraid I must go. My friends are waiting for me.”

  Liam straightened, a small, charming smile crossing his lips. “Thank you as well for your time. I hope our paths cross again in the future.”

  Yumio smiled back—just a faint curve of her lips—and followed Miyana back inside, leaving Liam alone on the balcony.

  The night air seemed quieter now without her. He looked up at the sky, stars scattering across the dark canvas above, and allowed himself a soft smile.

  Then something caught his eye. A faint glimmer at his feet. He bent down and picked it up—a delicate, heart-shaped locket. He opened it carefully, studying it in the moonlight, before his lips curved into a mischievous grin.

  “Well then…” he murmured to himself, holding the locket delicately between his fingers. “I’ll be happy to see you soon, my mystery princess.”

  “Mio! There you are.” Ariana said as Yumio and Miyana approached the group. Her voice carried a mix of relief and mild frustration. “Where were you? I even had Mia go look for you.” She stepped forward and hugged Yumio tightly, her arms almost refusing to let go. “You were out at the balcony for almost an hour. I was starting to worry.”

  Yumio gave a small, awkward chuckle, patting Ariana’s back as if to reassure her. “Sorry about that. I didn’t realize how much time had passed. I… got caught up.”

  Miyana, who was standing to the side with her arms crossed and a mischievous smirk on her lips, tilted her head. “She wasn’t just caught up with time. She was with someone on the balcony.”

  The girls immediately gasped, their eyes snapping to Yumio, who froze with a visible blush rising to her cheeks.

  “Who was he?”

  “Do you know which family he comes from?”

  “Is he handsome?”

  “How were you with him at the balcony?!”

  The questions came one after another, their voices overlapping in a chorus of curiosity. Yumio could only fidget with her fingers and stare down at the floor.

  “Girls, one at a time,” Ariana interjected, her tone calm but firm. She turned back to Yumio, her gaze steady. “Please explain, Mio. You’ve got everyone curious now.”

  “Well…” Yumio hesitated, glancing at all the eager faces before her. Her blush deepened. “His name is Liam. I… I don’t know which family he’s from. Yes, he’s handsome. And, um—he stumbled upon the balcony when I was already there. I told him he could stay since the other balconies were already occupied.” Her words came out quietly, as if each sentence grew heavier to admit.

  The girls erupted into soft giggles, grins spreading across their faces. A few even whispered among themselves, clearly enjoying Yumio’s flustered state.

  But Ariana’s expression was different—subtle, fleeting. A flash of something unreadable crossed her features, a look only Miyana managed to notice. Whatever Ariana was thinking, she smoothed her expression quickly before anyone else could catch it.

  “Auntie and Uncle have been looking for you,” Ariana said suddenly, breaking the chatter. She gently placed a hand on Yumio’s shoulder and began leading her toward where Yukio and Yurio were waiting. “And listen carefully—don’t mention the boy you were with. Not a word. That goes for you girls as well.”

  The group nodded reluctantly, though the curiosity in their eyes still lingered.

  When they reached the twins, Yurio was the first to notice. “Mio, Ria!” he called out, his smile warm as always.

  Yukio, however, was quick to scowl, his arms crossed tightly. “Took you long enough. Where were you?”

  Yumio offered him an apologetic smile, tilting her head slightly. “Sorry, Kio. I just… got caught up with the peace and quiet on the balcony. I didn’t realize how long I stayed.”

  Yukio sighed heavily, shaking his head, though the scowl didn’t quite fade. Yurio, on the other hand, smiled with his usual calm reassurance. “As long as you’re safe and still within the mansion grounds, that’s what matters most.”

  Yumio smiled gratefully, relief softening her features. Yukio was still grumbling under his breath, muttering words only he could understand.

  Juliana, who had been quietly watching, stepped forward. “Yukio, are you alright?” she asked, her voice laced with genuine concern.

  Yukio stiffened, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. He quickly averted his eyes, scratching the back of his neck. “I’m fine,” he muttered, his voice lower than usual.

  Yumio blinked, noticing the subtle shift in her brother’s demeanor. Leaning closer to Yurio, she whispered, “Is it just me, or did he just… act a little different?”

  Yurio chuckled softly, keeping his voice quiet. “He has a small crush on Juliana. They were classmates back in high school.”

  Yumio’s eyes widened slightly, her lips parting in awe. I didn’t know Yukio liked someone.

  Before anything more could be said, Ariana stepped forward, her tone brisk. “Alright, that’s enough for tonight. It’s already late. I’ll take Mio to Auntie and Uncle so we can give them our farewells.” She turned to the twins, her eyes narrowing just slightly. “You two, escort these ladies outside.”

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  Yurio nodded without hesitation. Yukio grumbled but followed nonetheless.

  Yumio chuckled softly at the scene, waving at the girls as they were led out. Seems like Ria isn’t in the best mood right now, she thought, sensing the undercurrent in Ariana’s voice.

  Together, Ariana and Yumio approached Takeshi and Emi, who were engaged in conversation with several business partners.

  “Auntie, Uncle,” Ariana said respectfully, bowing slightly to announce their presence.

  Emi turned with a gentle smile. “Yumio, Ariana. What brings you here?”

  “It’s already late, so we wanted to say our farewells first. We still have a busy day tomorrow,” Ariana explained.

  Takeshi nodded thoughtfully. “And where are Yukio and Yurio?”

  “They escorted the ladies out, Uncle,” Ariana answered.

  “Good.” Takeshi nodded once again, his expression approving.

  Both girls bowed politely. “Well then, Mother, Father, we’ll take our leave first.”

  Emi leaned in, kissing both of their foreheads. “Rest well, both of you.”

  As they left the hall and walked toward their respective rooms, the air was quieter—comforting. Yumio paused at her door, turning with a small smile.

  “Good night, Ria.”

  Ariana’s expression softened, her earlier sternness melting away. “Good night, Mio.”

  They exchanged one last wave before slipping into their rooms.

  Inside her room, Yumio quickly changed into her pajamas, then sank into her bed with a long exhale. Her mind wandered to the events of the night, especially the unexpected conversation on the balcony.

  I was able to make friends… and even spoke with a boy other than my brothers.

  The thought of Liam made her heart race, though curiosity also tugged at her. There’s something about him… I can’t shake the feeling he’s hiding something, just like I am.

  Still, she shook her head with a faint smile. Whatever. At least I talked with someone new. That’s enough for now. I had fun… and tomorrow, I’ll have even more. I can’t wait.

  Her eyes fluttered shut, excitement stirring in her chest. For the first time in fourteen years, tomorrow would be the day she finally stepped outside.

  The next day…

  Yumio woke up with her heart racing in excitement. Today was the day—after fourteen years, she was finally allowed to go outside. The thought alone made her legs bounce under her blanket as she sat on the edge of her bed. She quickly got ready, her hands trembling just a little as she brushed her hair, slipped on her dress, and looked at her reflection in the mirror. This is really happening.

  Though she still needed the company of Yukio, Yurio, and Ariana, it didn’t matter. She was finally stepping into the world she had only seen through windows, books, and screens.

  “Are you ready to shop, Mio?” Ariana’s cheerful voice broke through her thoughts as she entered the room. “We’ll be going to plenty of stores, so you better have your energy with you.”

  Yumio turned, her eyes bright with excitement, and gave her cousin a wide smile. “I’m ready! I can’t wait to see the new trends.”

  Ariana giggled, twirling her purse strap. “We’ll have lots of fun! Don’t worry—I already planned our first few stops.”

  Behind them, Yukio leaned against the wall with his arms crossed, sighing heavily, while Yurio stood beside him with an encouraging smile.

  “This is going to be a tiring day,” Yukio muttered, as if mentally preparing himself.

  Yurio chuckled. “Don’t be like that. As long as Mio is having fun, it won’t feel tiring.”

  “That’s exactly what I’m worried about,” Yukio shot back, casting his sister a sideways glance. “Mio having too much fun.”

  “You’re such a killjoy,” Yurio teased, shaking his head with an amused grin.

  Yukio rolled his eyes while Yurio shrugged, clearly used to his twin’s pessimism.

  “Ria, Mio, let’s go now!” Yurio called from the driver’s seat once they made their way outside.

  “Coming!” the girls said in unison, rushing into the car.

  “Where will we first go?” Yurio asked as soon as they were settled.

  “How about the mall?” Ariana suggested without hesitation. “Mio needs new clothes, and it’s the perfect place to start.”

  Yurio nodded and started the car, while Yukio muttered something under his breath, already dreading the hours ahead. Meanwhile, Yumio squealed softly, unable to contain her excitement.

  As they drove through the city, Yumio pressed her face against the window, her eyes wide with wonder. The tall buildings seemed to touch the sky, people filled the sidewalks, and the sound of life buzzed all around her.

  So this is the world I’ve been missing… she thought, her chest swelling with awe. For so long she had felt like a bird in a gilded cage—hidden away, protected yet trapped. And now, finally, she could spread her wings.

  When they arrived at the mall, Ariana wasted no time, practically dragging Yumio from store to store. Dresses, shoes, accessories—everything caught her attention. Yumio laughed more than she had in a long time, twirling in front of mirrors while Ariana gave her approval. Behind them, the twins followed patiently, occasionally carrying bags when their arms were too full.

  After what felt like hours, they finally stopped at a café the twins and Ariana often visited.

  “You girls go ahead and order,” Yurio said, adjusting his sleeves with a smile. “We’ll go shopping first.”

  “But I thought we already went shopping?” Yumio tilted her head, confused.

  “Yeah, but that was for you girls,” Yukio replied, his tone dry. “We accompanied you knowing Ariana would buy this much for the both of you.”

  Yumio’s cheeks warmed in embarrassment, and she lowered her gaze. “Sorry…” she muttered sheepishly.

  “It’s fine,” Ariana said reassuringly, giving her a light pat on the shoulder.

  “Be sure to order for us too, Ria,” Yurio added before he and Yukio disappeared into the crowd.

  Left alone, Ariana smiled and turned to her cousin. “So, I’ll start ordering our drinks. What do you want, Mio?”

  “Anything strawberry,” Yumio answered with a small grin.

  “Got it,” Ariana winked before heading to the counter.

  Yumio sat down by the window, pulling out the book she had just bought earlier—The Iliad. The smell of new pages and ink filled her nose as she opened it, immersing herself in the familiar comfort of words.

  She had only been reading for a few minutes when someone sat across from her. Lifting her eyes, she froze.

  “Liam!” she exclaimed softly, her lips parting in surprise. “Good to see you here!”

  “Likewise,” he replied, smiling warmly. “Do you, uhh… come here regularly?”

  Yumio shook her head quickly. “No, this is my first time. My cousin and my brothers are the ones who usually come here.”

  “I see.” His gaze shifted to the book in her hands. “So, you’re into history and mythology, huh?”

  She chuckled, holding up the cover. “Yeah. It fascinates me.”

  Liam leaned forward slightly, curiosity in his eyes. “I like those too. Especially classical novels.”

  Yumio’s eyes lit up, her excitement bubbling over. “Really? I love the story of Pyramus and Thisbe.”

  “I’ve heard it’s similar to Romeo and Juliet,” Liam said thoughtfully.

  “Yeah,” Yumio nodded eagerly. “I like it because—even though they lived in different worlds and were bound by their families’ feud—they still tried everything to protect their love.”

  “But…” Liam’s tone softened, “they ended up dying in each other’s arms.”

  “It’s a tragic ending, just like Romeo and Juliet,” Yumio admitted, her voice quieter now. “But I love it all the same.”

  As she continued to talk about the story, her hands moving animatedly, Liam couldn’t help but smile. He listened intently, the corners of his lips tugging upward as though he were watching something precious.

  But then his eyes flicked toward the counter. His expression changed slightly—alert, almost cautious. He straightened his shirt and stood abruptly.

  Yumio blinked, confused. “Liam?”

  He smiled again, though there was something fleeting in his gaze. “I’m afraid I have to go. There are still matters I need to attend to.”

  “Oh! Sorry if I kept you busy,” Yumio said quickly, guilt flashing across her face.

  Liam shook his head. “No, not at all. In fact, you kept me occupied.” He bowed lightly. “Well then, I’ll see you next time, Princess.”

  Yumio froze at the word, her eyes widening. For a moment, her heart skipped. But before she could ask, he was already stepping away.

  “…See you,” she whispered, a faint smile tugging at her lips despite the confusion in her chest.

  Moments later, Ariana returned with their food and drinks, setting the tray on the table. “I got our order,” she said cheerfully, then noticed Yumio staring out the window with a faraway look. “Mio, are you alright?”

  Yumio blinked and snapped out of her thoughts. “Yeah. I’m fine,” she answered quickly, smiling a little too fast.

  Ariana raised a brow, skeptical, but chose not to push further.

  You’re a real mystery, Liam, Yumio thought, staring absentmindedly at the soft pink drink Ariana had ordered for her. She quickly shook her head, trying to chase the thought away and focus on the book in her hands instead.

  At the very same moment, Liam—already walking down the bustling street outside the café—had the exact same thought. You’re a real mystery, Princess. The corner of his mouth curved into a small smile as the image of her bright eyes lingered in his mind.

  When they arrived back at the mansion later that evening, Yumio felt restless. She excused herself as soon as she could, hurrying to her room. Once inside, she paced back and forth, her mind circling back to the stranger she had met twice now.

  Who really are you, Liam? She wondered, biting her lip. You’re so… different. And yet, there’s something skeptical about you… something you’re not saying.

  She sat down at her desk, opening her laptop. Curiosity burned too strongly to ignore. She typed his name into the search bar—Liam—but thousands of results appeared. Politicians, athletes, actors, students. Her frustration grew as she scrolled. Without a last name, it was useless. He never gave one, just like she had never revealed hers. A mutual unspoken secrecy.

  Yumio sighed, running a hand through her hair. “Why won’t you let me figure you out?” she muttered under her breath.

  Just as she was about to try again with different keywords, a knock came at her door.

  “Mio, it’s Akari,” came the gentle voice from the other side. “It’s almost time for dinner.”

  Yumio quickly shut her laptop and composed herself. “I’ll be right there,” she called back.

  As she rose, her thoughts lingered on the name that refused to leave her mind. I’ll think about Liam later…

  Meanwhile, across the city, a black luxury car pulled into the driveway of an expansive mansion. Liam stepped out, tossing his car keys to a waiting servant without a second glance. His strides were calm, yet the faint tension in his jaw betrayed his mood.

  A butler dressed immaculately in black approached him with a bow. “Master Liam, your father has requested your presence in the study.”

  “Daren,” Liam said coolly, not even breaking his stride as he handed off his jacket, “have my meal sent to my room.”

  The butler hesitated, his eyes flickering nervously. “But, Master Liam, your father specifically requested—”

  Liam stopped, turning his sharp gaze on the man. “He can talk to Nathan. He’s the heir, after all.” His tone was final, leaving no room for argument.

  Daren bowed lower. “As you wish, Master Liam.”

  Liam walked toward the kitchen, loosening his tie as he went. “Who’s home right now?” he asked without looking back.

  “The Madame is in the salon, and the young mistresses are in their rooms,” Daren replied promptly.

  “Good,” Liam muttered, pushing open the door to the main hall. “That means I don’t have to deal with pointless chatter tonight.”

  Without waiting for a response, he climbed the grand staircase and disappeared down the corridor leading to his wing of the mansion. Once inside his room, he tossed his phone on the desk, kicked off his shoes, and collapsed onto his bed with a sigh.

  For a moment, silence filled the room—until his lips curved upward, and a laugh escaped him.

  You’re really interesting, Mio, he thought, covering his face with one hand. You’re the only one who makes me feel like this… like I’m going mad.