The music faded as the ballroom doors closed behind Marina.
Izumi remained outside on the balcony, staring down at the reflection of the moon in the garden fountain. His mind had gone quiet—not from peace, but from overload.
Engagement?
Was it real?
Why didn't she say anything…?
He gripped the railing harder, trying to ground himself. His chest was tight. Not with pain—yet—but something close. Like drowning in velvet.
Meanwhile, in Ashford's Lounge
Marina stepped in, her heels clicking sharply on the marble floor. Her father stood near the fireplace, sipping a crimson wine with all the smugness of a fox who had successfully lit his own trap.
"Why did you do it?" she demanded. "Why would you announce an engagement like that?"
Ashford didn't turn around. "To test your lover, of course."
"…Huh?"
Finally, he faced her, wineglass half-raised.
"I needed to know if that boy was serious. You speak about him, think about him, sneak out for him. But does he fight for you?"
Marina's mouth opened. Closed. Her mind stumbled.
"This wasn't just about politics or appearances," Ashford added calmly. "This was about you. And your heart."
"…And Haruto? He just went along with it?"
Ashford chuckled. "He has a girlfriend. He's quite loyal, actually. And supportive. Told me he'd help you both get together… in his own mischievous way."
Marina blinked. "You're joking."
Ashford sipped. "I never joke when there's a banquet budget involved."
Back on the Balcony
Izumi hadn't moved. Every sound from inside felt a little louder now—the laughter, the clinking plates, the music returning for the dinner course.
He wanted to go in. He wanted to demand answers. But all he could do was stand there like some background NPC.
Suddenly—
"Still brooding out here?" a deep voice said.
One of Marina's bodyguards—specifically, the broad-shouldered one with the military cut—stepped beside him.
"...I'm fine," Izumi muttered.
The bodyguard sighed. "You're not. But look… even I want her to have a happy life."
Izumi turned, surprised.
"I've guarded her since she was a kid," the man said, hands behind his back. "She used to run through hallways pretending she was a magical girl. We had to treat every broken teacup like it was a crime scene."
Izumi stared.
The man looked ahead, serious again. "She likes you. More than you realize. So... stand."
Izumi hesitated.
The bodyguard leaned closer. "That was an order."
Izumi blinked. Then—he nodded.
Dinner Begins
The dining hall had transformed. Golden candlelight danced across crystal glasses and carefully plated dishes. The elite of society laughed, networked, and praised the Kamihara family's elegance.
But at the long table, there was silence.
Izumi sat stiffly near Marina. She hadn't said anything. Not yet. Not with all the eyes around.
Haruto sat across from them.
Eating.
A lot.
Forks and chopsticks blurred in his hands. He devoured food like it owed him money.
Marina stared.
Even Izumi forgot his own nerves for a second.
Haruto finally paused, drinking soup straight from the bowl. Then he looked at them—no teasing this time, just watching. Quiet. Warm.
This feeling… Haruto thought, ...it's the same as back then. When I was with her.
He smiled to himself.
Marina noticed.
Izumi did too.
And they both wondered.
The Ring Presentation
The room suddenly hushed as the head maid stepped forward, carrying a velvet box with the poise of a queen.
"The Kamihara family would now like to present the ceremonial engagement ring."
Ashford stood, glass raised.
"This ring," he said smoothly, "symbolizes a union between not just names and titles… but hearts."
The box opened.
Inside was a glimmering sapphire ring, set in white gold.
It caught the light. It caught everyone's breath.
Izumi froze.
The chatter died.
Everyone was watching Marina.
Marina's eyes didn't move from the ring.
She was waiting.
So was Ashford.
So was Haruto, now slowing his chewing slightly.
And then… Izumi felt it.
This is it.
If I say nothing… it might really end here.
The weight of the evening pressed on his shoulders.
His fingers curled under the table.
What should I do?
What can I even say…?
The pressure built.
The world held its breath.
And—
To be continued....