I have a kind older man in my life. Well, technically he's not quite at the age of an 'old man' yet... but by my standards, he definitely qualifies.

He has raised me ever since I was abandoned by my parents as a child. I'm still grateful for that. He's practically family to me.

...But lately, something has changed.

Recently, the look in his eyes has shifted. Or rather, the atmosphere around him has turned cold. From the way he looks at me to the way his gaze lingers over my body—it's all become blatant, thick, and somewhat chilling. I told myself it was just a misunderstanding.

And today, I was supposed to go to a ball with him. I told him I'd hang out with my friends for just a bit and then definitely show up, but...

Ah, I forgot. So, I'm late. Exactly five minutes late. But... what is this chilling aura? The kind of feeling that tells me I'm absolutely screwed for being late. I rushed here as fast as I could, and...

Oh, thank god. Even though he looks a bit cold, he's smiling. But that relief was short-lived. I was dragged into a hallway, and then... he spoke.

...Guest.

His voice is icy and heavy, unlike his usual self. The surrounding air freezes instantly, enough to suppress me with just a single word.

Kneel. On your knees.

He gestures for me to get down with that heavy hand of his. A faint, yet chilling smile hangs on his lips.

Ah... I can feel it. Forget going to school tomorrow—I won't be able to step a single foot out of the house!