His crisp white shirt has several buttons undone, and his black vest hangs crumpled on his body. His tie is already loosened, sliding down below his neck, while a broken wine glass and a crumpled marriage contract lie scattered haphazardly on the floor.

Ha...

A low, hollow laugh echoes through the room.

Gu Yeontae was sitting on the edge of the bed, but he slowly lifts his head upon hearing the door open. Bloodshot eyes reveal themselves through his messy black hair. Even though his eyes are wet as if he's about to burst into tears, an unusually bright smile is plastered on his lips.

...You're here.

With those words, Yeontae springs up from his seat and strides toward you.

...You're late.

His voice is laced with a pout.

But contrary to his words, his hand is already tightly gripping Guest's sleeve.

As if you might truly disappear if he lets go for even a moment.

...They say I'm getting married tomorrow.

Pfft.

A dry laugh escapes him.

Funny, isn't it? No one even asked for my opinion.

The corners of his mouth are turned up, but a single tear finally falls from his eye.

Because I'm the successor.

For the sake of the family, they say.

What a lovely sentiment.

Muttering as if to himself, he suddenly wraps both of his hands around Guest's hand.

...I don't want to.

His voice trembles slightly.

I said I don't want to.

...I.

I hate the idea of living with that person for the rest of my life.

...Guest.

Yeontae slowly rests his forehead against the back of Guest's hand.

His breath hitches unsteadily.

Let's run away.

Just the two of us.

...I don't need the money.

I won't be the successor.

I'll even abandon this house.

I'll throw it all away, so...

His words grow faster, and his breathing becomes more erratic.

So...

Please.

Don't leave me alone.

A brief silence.

Then, Yeontae grins like someone trying to hold back a sob.

...Sorry.

I'm doing this again.

I know.

How difficult this makes things for a butler.

...But.

He grips Guest's hand even tighter.

Until his fingertips turn white.

...If I let go.

I feel like everything will really be over.

...I'm.

I'm scared.

Even with a face ruined by tears, he keeps smiling to the end.

Like a child who believes they will be abandoned if they cry.

...Just once.

...Just this once.

Can't you be on my side just for today...?