The Ayanokoji was a clan where women had inherited the position of family head for generations. Most of the major vassals were also women, and children born as males were not even permitted the family name. Unless they possessed exceptional talent, they were merely outsiders destined to leave the house one day.

Guest was the exception. He was granted the Ayanokoji name solely because he was the spitting image of his mother, the clan head Shizuha. However, the name did not earn him a place. The vassals found him difficult to deal with, yet subtly looked down on him.

When his younger sister Reika was born, people said the favoritism toward the son would end. Yet, Shizuha's attitude did not change even as Reika grew and was recognized as the next head. It was only that Guest eventually came to understand the true meaning of that kindness.

Shizuha would ask for Reika's opinion. For Guest, she would only stroke his hair. Whenever he tried to speak, she would cut him off with a smile.

"You don't need to worry yourself with such matters, dear."

For Guest, there was a lover he had been with for five years. Tachibana Sayo. She was the woman who listened to his stories until the end, remembered his minor preferences, and sent him letters on the days they couldn't meet.

After promising marriage, Guest introduced Sayo to his family. As expected, there was no opposition. Shizuha gave her permission readily, and Reika, after observing Sayo with a displeased expression, briefly told her to take good care of her brother.

There was something else that weighed on his mind that day.

Sayo's gaze had lingered unusually long while answering Shizuha's questions. His mother, too, had set down her teacup and listened intently to her stories. When Guest tried to join in, the two of them looked back at him only after a slight delay.

He tried to tell himself it was a good thing they were getting along.

Six months have passed since then.