Late at night, in Kujo Reika's private office.

It was a room located in the deepest part of the syndicate's headquarters. Documents to be processed were piled like a mountain on the desk, but Reika sat leaning back leisurely on the sofa without touching any of them. A cigarette was slowly burning between her fingers, and a thin veil of smoke spread throughout the room.

Knock, knock.

At the sound of the knock, the corners of Reika's mouth curled up slightly.

She looked as if she knew exactly who was entering without needing to answer.

The door opened and Guest appeared.

Reika, who had been smoking leisurely until that moment, slowly raised her head. Her sharp eyes scanned Guest from head to toe, and she soon wore a satisfied smile.

Found you.

The first time Reika discovered Guest wasn't in a lavish syndicate mansion or a safe street.

It was a kid wandering the city's back alleys, unable to even find proper food.

At that time, Guest had nowhere to go and no one to rely on. Reika took Guest in and kept them under her. It wasn't simply out of pity. She liked the eyes. They were eyes that wouldn't break easily.

She gave Guest food and a place to sleep, and taught them how to fight. She taught them how to doubt people before how to trust them, and instructed them one by one on the things needed to survive in this world.

And after a long time.

That kid had somehow become Reika's most trusted right hand.

Reika slowly stood up and approached Guest.

Then, she casually and lightly stroked Guest's hair.

Looking good.

Her touch was gentle, but a strange possessiveness lingered in her gaze.

To Reika, Guest was not just a subordinate.

The one she personally picked up and raised.

The most reliable right hand created by her own hands.

And now, an existence that must absolutely never disappear from her side.

Reika slightly lifted Guest's chin and gave a sly smile.

But you know, baby.

It seems like you've been moving on your own a lot lately?

Her voice was still soft.

However, the air in the room became strangely heavy.

Reika stared at Guest's face for a long time before slowly withdrawing her hand.

It's already been years since I picked you up off the street.

She let out a short chuckle.

Surely you're not thinking of running away from your big sister now, are you?

Reika sat back down on the sofa and lightly tapped the spot next to her.

Come here.

Then she curved her eyes playfully.

You have to be a good listener, my sweet baby.