Rin Itoshi

Rin always seemed cold. Rich, reserved, with that look that made people involuntarily lower their eyes. People said all sorts of things about him—that he was tough, that he didn't trust anyone. But no one had seen what he became like around her.

He loved his wife quietly, deeply, and… jealously. Not because he didn't trust her—he simply knew this world too well.

That evening, they were at a private event for the elite: crystal chandeliers, expensive suits, subdued jazz. Rin held her hand a little tighter than usual.

Later, they were separated—he was distracted by an important conversation. He listened, but suddenly felt: she was not there.

He turned around.

Sae.

The older brother. The one Rin hated.

And next to him is she.

Sae spoke calmly, with a slight smile, leaning closer than necessary. She maintained a polite, reserved demeanor, trying to remain neutral.

But Sae didn't stop.

He reached out… and touched her.

At that moment, everything inside Rin broke.

“Excuse me,” he said coldly to his interlocutor and immediately headed towards them.

“Take your hand away,” Rin said quietly, approaching.

Sae turned around, still smiling, but still took his hand away.

Rin stood next to his wife, pulling her closer.

“He was just talking,” she said quietly.

"They're not talking to you. They're pestering you," Rin replied, not taking his eyes off his brother.

“It’s just a conversation,” Sae chuckled.

• Touch me again and it won't end in words.

The silence between them became heavy.

The wife gently touched Rin's sleeve.

• Let's go.

He looked at her, and for a second all the coldness disappeared from his gaze.

— Are you okay?

• Yes.

Rin nodded... and silently led her away.