After wrapping up all her assignments for the day, Yume quietly left the Fujiwara Multimedia office. The sun had already dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows between the buildings. Hailing a taxi from the busy street, she sat silently, staring out of the window as the city lights flickered past. The cab eventually stopped in front of a tall, elegant building nestled between a café and a boutique. But Yume didn't enter through the front doors.
Instead, she walked into the narrow alley beside the building, the soles of her shoes clicking softly against the pavement. There was a discreet side entrance known only to a few — one she used often. This wasn't just any building. On paper, it was a renowned piano academy, but for Yume, it was the portal through which she transformed into her true self — Yumeha Mitsui.
She slipped into a washroom and locked the door behind her. Within five minutes, she changed everything — her outfit, her hairstyle, even her demeanor. The confident intern, Yume, disappeared, and in her place stood Yumeha: elegant, poised, and every bit the heiress of the Mitsui family.
Outside, parked conspicuously in front of the building, was a glossy black Toyota — the Mitsui family car. One glance at the vehicle and anyone could tell it belonged to someone of status. The chauffeur stepped out to open the door as Yumeha approached.
"Good evening, Ojou-sama," he greeted respectfully.
Yumeha nodded with a polite smile, then slid into the backseat.
After a brief drive, the car turned through a set of grand iron gates and pulled up to the Mitsui mansion — a breathtaking estate that seemed plucked straight from a dream. With its manicured gardens, glowing lanterns, and towering architecture, it was the kind of place that left guests in awe. But for Yumeha, who had grown up here, it was simply home.
As the car came to a halt, she stepped out gracefully and walked through the massive entrance doors. Inside the grand hall, her grandparents, Mitsui Goro and Mitsui Shimi, were sitting together on the plush cream-colored sofa beneath a dazzling chandelier.
"Yumeha, come here, dear," her grandmother called, her eyes lighting up with affection.
Yumeha approached and sat down beside them, smoothing the folds of her skirt.
"How was your piano lesson today?" her grandfather asked, sipping his tea.
"It went well, Grandpa," she replied with a bright smile. "I practiced a new composition. I think I'm improving."
Her grandmother leaned closer with a gentle pat on Yumeha's hand. "You always work so hard. We're proud of you."
Yumeha hesitated for a moment, then added, "Also… I've decided not to attend school for a little while. I want to focus more on piano."
The two elders exchanged a glance but didn't object. Her grandfather simply said, "If that's what your heart tells you, then follow it. There's no need to rush."
After chatting for a while longer, Yumeha excused herself and went upstairs to her room. The air was scented with lavender as she entered the soft-lit space, finally allowing herself to unwind. Just as she began to remove her earrings, a knock echoed at her door.
[Inside Yumeha's room – soft lighting, warm tones, and the faint scent of lavender in the air]
There's a gentle knock on the door. Yumeha, just finishing changing out of her formal dress into something more comfortable, walks over and opens it. Sakura enters quickly, closing the door behind her and locking it almost instinctively.
Sakura:
(lowering her voice, concerned)
"You're back… finally. I was worried."
Yumeha:
(gives a small smile)
"Sissy, I told you not to worry so much. Everything was fine today."
Sakura:
(folds her arms, pacing slightly)
"You say that every time. But do you even realize how risky this is? Living two lives — as Yume and as Yumeha. If anyone at the office finds out who you really are, it won't just be your job on the line… it could affect the entire family."
Yumeha:
(softly, but firmly)
"I know the risks. But I also know what I want. I'm not doing anything wrong, Sakura. I'm just… chasing a dream."
Sakura:
(stops pacing, looks directly at her)
"A dream that could destroy everything your father and brother have protected you from. Geto would lose it if he knew. You know how he is — he'd storm into that office and drag you back himself."
Yumeha:
(chuckles quietly)
"He probably would. But that's exactly why he can't know. Neither he nor Papa. I don't want to disappoint them… but I also don't want to live like I'm caged in a glass box forever."
Sakura:
(sighs, sitting on the bed beside her)
"Yumeha… I get it. More than you think. When I first married into this family, I felt that pressure too — to be perfect, to act the part. But at least I could be myself. You, on the other hand… you're constantly switching masks."
Yumeha:
(sits down beside her, voice quieter)
"It's exhausting sometimes. But when I write… when I'm Yume in that little office, typing stories no one associates with the Mitsui name… I feel free. Like it's really me. Not the heiress, not the piano prodigy. Just a girl who has something to say."
Sakura:
(places a hand on hers)
"You really love it, don't you?"
Yumeha:
(nods slowly)
"With all my heart."
Yumeha:
She sat on the edge of her bed and continued, "Oh, sissy you know Mr. Jin mentioned something interesting today. A new intern is joining our team, and he asked me to keep an eye on him. He seemed familiar with the guy. I wonder what the connection is."
Sakura sat beside her, her curiosity piqued. "That sounds like something worth paying attention to. Be careful, though."
Sakura:
(sighs again, relenting)
"Okay. I won't say anything. I'll keep your secret, like always. But you have to promise me something."
Yumeha:
"Anything."
Sakura:
"If something goes wrong… if someone gets suspicious, or you feel unsafe — tell me. No matter what. Don't try to carry it all alone."
Yumeha:
(smiles, touched)
"I promise, Sissy. You'll be the first to know."
Sakura:
"Good. Because I don't care what name you go by… you're still my little sister. And I'm always going to protect you."
The two share a brief hug — a quiet, meaningful embrace. No more words are needed.
The two of them spent the next hour chatting about work, deadlines, and office gossip, giggling occasionally like two sisters sharing secrets under the covers.
Later that evening, the luxurious dining area of the Mitsui mansion came to life with warm lights and the soft clinking of porcelain. The long table gleamed under golden chandeliers, and every place setting looked like it belonged to royalty.
The strong personal and professional bond between the Fujiwara and Mitsui families
Ren Fujiwara's return from Nara, his current status at Tenshin University
Yumeha's unawareness of Ren, only recognizing his younger brother Reo
Geto's familiarity with Ren, setting the tone for subtle foreshadowing
Emotional cues and subtle character reactions
[Scene – Mitsui Mansion, Grand Dining Hall – Evening]
The Mitsui family gathered around the long dining table, set in a lavish room lit by the golden glow of chandeliers. Elegant plates were neatly arranged with fine cuisine — sashimi, simmered vegetables, and clay pot rice — while gentle classical music played faintly from a speaker tucked in the corner. The ambiance was warm and opulent, yet carried the formality expected from the Mitsui household.
Goro Mitsui, the family patriarch, sat at the head of the table with his usual dignified presence, his silver hair combed back, posture straight, and a sharp gaze behind his glasses. Beside him sat Shimi Mitsui, graceful in her silk kimono, always poised, ever the matriarch.
Shigeru, their eldest son, and his wife Suki sat opposite their children — Geto, now taking a more active role in family affairs, his demeanor serious yet approachable, and Sakura, his thoughtful wife. Yumeha, their only daughter, sat quietly near the end, dressed in soft blue, her expression composed but her eyes quietly curious.
Dinner was underway when Goro cleared his throat gently, signaling conversation.
Goro:
"So, Shigeru… How goes the Minato redevelopment project? Still holding Takarashi's interest?"
Shigeru:
Takes a sip of miso soup, then nods thoughtfully
"Yes. We finalized the preliminary agreement last week. Their board approved our eco-tower proposal. Construction should begin by the end of the next quarter."
Shimi:
Smiling approvingly
"Minato will look different in two years. That entire waterfront will be Mitsui-branded if things keep moving smoothly."
Geto:
Glancing up with a slight smirk
"Well, we might be competing for digital space soon. Fujiwara Multimedia just announced a content innovation lab in Shibuya. Focused on creator economies and AI-enhanced video production."
Shigeru:
Leans back, intrigued
"Hmph. They always had a strong sense of timing. Shibuya's the right place — saturated with young creatives."
Goro:
Calm but admiring
"The Fujiwaras have never been slow to act. Ren's grandfather was the same. He and I once co-chaired the publishing council in '88 — sharp man. Their family's ambition hasn't dulled."
Shimi:
Fondly, folding her hands together
"And neither has their grace. We've known them since before the bubble burst. That friendship… it's rare now."
Suki:
"Do you remember the summer retreat in Karuizawa? The Fujiwaras hosted us that year. Reo was just a toddler, clinging to Yumeha's yukata."
Yumeha:
Perks up slightly, a nostalgic smile tugging her lips
"He wouldn't stop showing me his sketchbook. He kept drawing everyone — even the koi fish."
Sakura:
Laughs lightly
"He's in high school now, Class 10 I heard. Still obsessed with art and design."
Geto:
Nods, voice steadier
"And Ren's back, too."
Yumeha:
Tilts her head
"Back? From Nara?"
Geto:
Glances at her, noting her surprise
"Yes. He returned to Tokyo a few weeks ago. Studying marketing at Tenshin University."
Yumeha:
Pauses, blinking
"…Tenshin? That's my university."
Shimi:
Smiles knowingly
"Isn't it curious how life weaves us near the ones we're meant to meet?"
Yumeha:
Quietly
"I only know Reo… I didn't realize Ren was in Tokyo."
Goro:
"Ren's a quiet one. More reflective than Reo. He lived with his grandparents for most of his life, didn't he?"
Geto:
Gazes across the table, thoughtful
"Yes. We met during a youth leadership conference three years ago. He was… precise. Not flashy, not arrogant — just sharp. You could see he was watching the room even when he wasn't speaking. That kind of mind doesn't miss much."
Shigeru:
Nods in agreement
"And that's the kind of leader Fujiwara Multimedia will need. The industry is shifting fast. Content isn't just king anymore — it's the whole empire."
Shimi:
"And Ren will inherit it. Mark my words."
Suki:
Gentle tone
"The Fujiwaras have always raised their children with purpose. But they also raised them with heart. That's why their business thrives. People trust them."
Goro:
Firmly
"And we do, too. Our alliance with the Fujiwaras has always stood on mutual respect — not just business contracts. We've watched their children grow, as they've watched ours."
Yumeha:
Lowering her eyes
"…Strange I never met Ren before."
Sakura:
Touches her arm gently
"You were young when he moved away. Maybe now you'll cross paths."
Geto:
Voice low, cryptic
"Maybe you already have."
Yumeha blinked, confused, but before she could ask what he meant, the conversation shifted toward dessert and upcoming family plans. Yet something lingered in her chest — a flicker of curiosity, as if a thread had been pulled in a tapestry she never knew was unfinished.
Then the conversation turned.
"And what about you, Yumeha?" her mother asked with a smile. "How is school treating you?"
Yumeha paused for a split second before answering smoothly, "It's been fine. I've been focusing more on piano recently."
"Oh? That's wonderful," her grandmother chimed in.
But inside, Yumeha's heart raced. Talking about piano always made her anxious, especially when she was hiding so much. Still, she kept a calm expression and answered all their questions with unwavering grace. Her voice was steady, but inside, a storm of guilt swirled.
When the meal was winding down, Yumeha finally spoke.
"Papa… I've decided to take a break from school for a while. I want to devote myself more fully to the piano."
Her father set his chopsticks down and looked at her. For a moment, there was silence — and then he smiled gently.
"Do whatever you want to do in your life," he said. "As long as it makes you happy."
Yumeha lowered her gaze, guilt tugging at her chest. Her father had always loved her so deeply, protected her so fiercely. And yet, she couldn't tell him the truth — that she was working secretly as a writer in an office, living a life far from what they imagined for her.
She couldn't break his heart.
She couldn't risk the world he'd built for her falling apart.
Even though she sat at a table surrounded by love and luxury, Yumeha felt the weight of secrets she carried alone. But for now, she would endure it — for her dreams, and for the people she loved.
Scene – Yumeha's Room, After Dinner
Yumeha sat by the window, the night breeze gently playing with the sheer curtains. The sounds of the house had died down after dinner, but her mind was still whirling from everything that had been said. A soft knock came, followed by a familiar voice.
Sakura:
"Can I come in?"
Yumeha:
Turning from the window with a small smile
"Of course, Sissy."
Sakura walked in holding two cups of warm milk and handed one to Yumeha before plopping down on the bed.
Sakura:
"So… that dinner turned into quite the Fujiwara fan club, didn't it?"
Yumeha:
Chuckles nervously
"I didn't realize everyone was so close to them. I mean… I only know Reo. We've met at events, and he's always been polite, sweet. But this Ren—he felt like a stranger to me. And yet…"
Sakura:
Raises an eyebrow, amused
"And yet?"
Yumeha:
"…Everyone talks like I should know him. Even Niisan mentioned we might've met."
Sakura:
"Ren lived with his grandparents in Nara most of his life, right? Maybe that's why you don't remember. He's always been the more withdrawn one — thoughtful, serious. Kind of like the older brother who doesn't say much, but knows everything."
Yumeha:
"So, the opposite of Reo."
Sakura:
Laughs
"Exactly. Reo's like a whirlwind of energy — paints, drums, anime references. Ren's the calm lake. Though, honestly, I heard Ren has a sharp tongue when he actually talks."
Yumeha:
Thoughtfully
"And he's at Tenshin now… in the Marketing department."
Sakura:
"Mhmm. Which means he's practically on the same campus as you. Fate is funny that way."
Yumeha:
Sips her milk, playing with the rim of the cup
"I don't think I've seen him. Or maybe I did, but didn't realize."
Sakura:
Teasing
"Well, you do tend to walk through life like a heroine from a shoujo manga — bumping into mysterious people and never remembering faces."
Yumeha:
Groans
"Please don't turn my life into a plot."
Sakura:
Grins
"Too late. We've already got the serious mystery boy, and now we're just missing the comic relief—oh wait, we have Sai for that."
Yumeha:
Sputters into her milk
"Sissy!"
Sakura:
Laughing, waving her hand
"Don't give me that look! You know he still likes you."
Yumeha:
Hides face behind her hands
"That was years ago. He's over it. Right?"
Sakura:
"Oh, Yumeha. Sweet, oblivious Yumeha. He literally asked me last week if you were still single."
Yumeha:
Whining
"Why do you even tell me these things?!"
Sakura:
"Because it's cute. And besides, Sai's feelings are harmless — like a puppy chasing a butterfly. If something happens, it happens. If not, he'll write poetry about it. Bad poetry."
Yumeha:
Laughs despite herself
"Okay, that actually sounds like Sai."
Sakura:
Smiling warmly now
"But seriously… whether it's the Fujiwaras or Sai, just promise me one thing."
Yumeha:
"What?"
Sakura:
"Don't let any of them shake who you are. You're already living two lives — don't let a third sneak up and complicate things."
Yumeha:
Softly, nodding
"I promise. Thanks, Sissy."
They sit quietly for a while, sipping warm milk under the soft light. The outside world might be complicated, but here, in this room, it's just two sisters sharing the quiet.