Tonight was no ordinary night.

  The Kishimoto Mansion—already a towering symbol of wealth and influence—was even more radiant than usual. Its halls glittered with chandeliers, its marble floors polished to a mirrored sheen. The gardens outside were adorned with lanterns that glowed like fireflies, guiding carriages and sleek black cars toward the mansion gates.

  The mansion belonged to none other than the Kishimoto family, one of Japan’s most powerful dynasties. For decades, they had dominated industries, politics, and high society through their sprawling empire, Yonoka Enterprises. To most, they were untouchable—modern royalty.

  And tonight, they had given society a reason to buzz with even more curiosity.

  It was the eighteenth birthday of the family’s only triplets: Yukio, Yurio, and Yumio Kishimoto. Though Yukio and Yurio had been known in society for years, there was one among them who had remained shrouded in mystery. The second daughter, Yumio—the girl who had not been seen in public since she was four years old.

  Whispers had followed her absence for years. Some said she was gravely ill. Others believed the Kishimotos kept her hidden because her beauty would outshine the other daughters. Rumors only grew with time, until the world outside the mansion doors longed to see her for themselves.

  Now, tonight, the mystery would end.

  Already, the ballroom was crowded. Servants hurried about, carrying silver trays laden with champagne glasses and hors d’oeuvres. Journalists and paparazzi waited discreetly at the edges, their cameras hidden for now but ready to click at the perfect moment. Guests—politicians, CEOs, heirs of other dynasties—filled the gilded hall, all eyes waiting for the grand entrance.

  Down a quieter hallway, away from the bustle, Yumio Kishimoto sat before an ornate mirror in her preparation room. Her raven-black hair gleamed under the light as servants worked quickly to style it. The reflection staring back at her showed eyes unlike anyone else’s—one green, one blue.

  She sighed, fidgeting as a maid gently brushed her cheeks with blush. “Is this really necessary? It’s just a party.”

  The maid, not daring to look away from her work, shook her head. “It’s not just any party, Princess. It is your debut. The first time the public will finally see you. People have waited years for this moment.”

  “But I’m not interested in any of that.” Yumio’s voice softened, almost tired.

  The maid opened her mouth to argue, but an older, more authoritative voice entered the room.

  “You are a Kishimoto, Yumio. You must never forget what that means.”

  Yumio’s eyes flicked up in the mirror. “Grandmother.”

  Rimi Kishimoto entered, her presence commanding yet graceful, draped in a midnight-blue kimono embroidered with gold cranes. Despite her stern words, her gaze softened as she stepped closer, placing a wrinkled hand on Yumio’s shoulder. “You are beautiful, my dear.”

  “Thank you, Grandmother.” Yumio smiled faintly.

  “Remember, this night is not only for you but for our family. Behave with grace. Smile even if your heart trembles. Do not let them see your fear.”

  Yumio turned slightly, hugging her grandmother gently. “I’ll try.”

  Satisfied, Rimi left, allowing the maids to finish.

  “How much longer do I have to sit here?” Yumio muttered, already growing restless.

  “Not long now, Princess. Your hair is almost done,” one replied with a small bow.

  From the half-open door, a familiar voice broke in impatiently. “How much longer do we have to wait?”

  Without looking, Yumio groaned. “If you can’t be patient, Yukio, then sit down and stop bothering us.”

  Yukio Kishimoto, the eldest of the triplets, leaned casually against the doorway. With his sharp features, confident smirk, and black suit adorned with subtle silver chains, he looked every bit the rebellious heir. He raised an eyebrow at his sister’s sharp tone but obeyed, flopping down onto the couch with a scowl.

  Another voice entered the room, lighter and amused. “Still impatient as ever, aren’t you, Yukio?”

  Yurio Kishimoto, the second twin, walked in behind him. Unlike Yukio, Yurio’s demeanor radiated warmth. His softer smile, tidier appearance, and gentle presence often calmed the room. “You’ve lived with four sisters your whole life. How are you still this terrible at waiting?”

  “Don’t mind him, Yurio,” Yumio muttered with a small laugh. “He’s always short-tempered.”

  Yurio chuckled, while Yukio grumbled under his breath.

  Finally, Yumio waved the maids away and stood, turning to face her brothers. Their jaws fell slightly, even Yukio’s smirk faltering.

  She was radiant.

  Her peach-colored ball gown shimmered with subtle embroidery of roses and butterflies. Silver hairpins glinted in her dark hair, and the delicate heart-shaped locket she clasped around her neck added a final, personal touch.

  She twirled once. “Well? How do I look?”

  “Beautiful,” Yurio answered instantly, his voice filled with awe.

  Yumio smiled warmly, then glanced at Yukio expectantly. “Well? Say something.”

  “You’re still ugly,” Yukio said with a smirk.

  “Yukio!” Yurio hissed, glaring at him.

  Yumio pouted, crossing her arms. But she knew her brother too well—beneath that teasing mask, he was proud of her.

  Yukio’s gaze shifted to her locket. His smirk faded. “You’re still wearing that old thing?”

  “What? It’s special to me. My lucky charm,” Yumio said, clutching it.

  Before Yukio could retort, Yurio stepped in with a warning glare. Yukio only scoffed, standing and offering his hand. “Come on. They’re waiting for us.”

  “Wait,” Yumio said, smirking. “Take those earrings off, Yukio. Or Grandmother will tear them out herself.”

  “She already scolded him earlier,” Yurio added. “He doesn’t listen.”

  Yumio laughed. “Then it’s settled. Give them to me.”

  With a grumble, Yukio removed his jewelry, dropping them into a small pouch. Yumio opened her jewelry box and pulled out two small cross-shaped earrings—one green, one blue. She handed one to each brother.

  “My annual birthday gift.”

  Yukio and Yurio exchanged a glance, smiling. They placed them on opposite ears—Yukio on the right, Yurio on the left. A tradition that had started when they were six, now carried into adulthood.

  “You’re not wearing the ring tonight?” Yurio asked gently.

  “No. I want to keep it safe.”

  “Fair enough.” Yurio squeezed her hand reassuringly before leading her toward the door. Yukio followed, quiet but watchful.

  “What do you think will happen when I step outside that door?” Yumio asked softly.

  Yukio shrugged. “The world will lose its mind. Paparazzi won’t leave you alone. Every magazine will have your face on its cover. After all, you’re the Kishimoto no one’s ever seen. You’ll shake the entire country just by walking into that ballroom.”

  Her stomach tightened.

  Yurio lifted her chin gently, his warm gaze steady. “Don’t worry. We’re here to protect you.”

  Her lips curved into a grateful smile. “Thanks.”

  A sudden voice shouted from behind. “Don’t forget about us!”

  Yumio turned, breaking into laughter. “Of course I won’t, Ariana.”

  Her cousin Ariana rushed forward, hugging her tightly. “Mio! You look so gorgeous! I can’t believe this day is finally here.”

  “Thank you, Ria.” Yumio hugged her back carefully.

  The rest of the Kishimoto family began gathering. Older siblings Akari and Touya smiled reassuringly at her, while twins Natsu and Natsumi bickered until their mother, Emi, scolded them into silence. Their father, Takeshi Kishimoto, finally arrived, his presence commanding yet softened with pride.

  “It’s time,” he said simply, offering Yumio his arm. His smile deepened as he looked at her. “Are you ready, my daughter?”

  Yumio slipped her arm through his. For the first time, she felt no fear. “Born ready.”

  The doors began to open. The grand light of the ballroom spilled into the hall. With her father at her side and her brothers at her back, Yumio Kishimoto took her first step into the world that had been waiting for her.

  The ballroom doors swung open with a regal creak, and all conversation immediately hushed. The spotlight shifted to the grand staircase.

  “Entering the ballroom, Master Takeshi Kishimoto, along with the stars of tonight’s celebration—Prince Yukio Kishimoto, Prince Yurio Kishimoto, and the ultimate star of the evening, Princess Yumio Kishimoto!” The announcer’s voice boomed, his tone echoing with grandeur.

  Gasps and murmurs rippled across the hall as the family descended the stairs. The chandeliers sparkled above, their golden light spilling over the triplets, making them look as though they had stepped out of a painting.

  “Wow… is that the infamous Princess Yumio?”

  “She’s so beautiful in person.”

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  “She looks so much like the princes—such a striking resemblance.”

  “She’s a beauty to behold, even more radiant than the rumors claimed.”

  “They say she’s sickly, but she looks so healthy tonight…”

  “Maybe the family spread those rumors to keep her hidden from prying eyes.”

  Yumio could hear every whisper. Her gloved fingers instinctively tightened around her father’s arm. Takeshi glanced down at her and, with a calm smile, placed his reassuring hand over hers. His silent strength steadied her heart. She managed a small, nervous smile in return.

  When they reached the last step, Takeshi gently guided Yumio forward before presenting her to her brothers. Yukio and Yurio, dressed sharply in their princely attire, each stepped forward, bowing slightly as they took her hands in a protective, almost brotherly gesture.

  Takeshi then moved to the front of the hall, raising his glass. “Beloved guests, friends, and family,” his deep voice carried through the chamber, “I am honored and delighted to welcome you all tonight for a very special occasion—my children’s eighteenth birthday celebration.”

  A wave of applause rolled through the ballroom. Takeshi continued, his tone warming with emotion. “I am proud to see Yukio, Yurio, and Yumio grow into such fine young people. I am especially grateful for my daughter, Yumio—who has endured so much with her illness. Though it is not yet fully behind her, she has shown resilience and grace, and today, she is here with us, radiant and strong. This is truly a night to celebrate.”

  The guests clapped louder, raising their glasses.

  “Once again,” Takeshi concluded with a firm nod, “I welcome you all to share this joyous night. May it be filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Thank you.”

  The applause thundered through the room as Takeshi turned back to his children. His expression softened. “Happy birthday, my dear children.”

  The triplets bowed in unison. “Thank you, Father.”

  “I hope you enjoy the party,” he said, his gaze lingering on Yumio. “Especially you, my daughter. Tonight is your night to shine.”

  Yumio’s lips curved into a shy smile. “I’ll try, Father.”

  “Good.” Takeshi’s eyes twinkled before he turned, already being approached by eager businessmen and dignitaries.

  The siblings exchanged glances.

  “Want some punch?” Yurio asked, tugging at his collar. “My throat feels like sandpaper.”

  Yukio smirked. “Careful, or you’ll drink the entire bowl.”

  “Ha! Don’t tempt me.” Yurio laughed, heading toward the refreshment table.

  “Wait up!” Yukio called, his eyes already darting toward a young lady in a blue gown. “I saw someone I know—don’t hog the punch without me!” He jogged after his brother, making Yumio chuckle.

  Left alone at the table, Yumio sighed softly, her gaze sweeping over the sea of guests. Before she could gather her thoughts, a cheerful voice broke through.

  “Whatcha thinking about?”

  Yumio turned, surprised, only to see Ariana approaching with a girl beside her. Relief and delight immediately lit up her face. “Ariana! Miyana!”

  “Did we startle you?” Miyana asked playfully.

  “A bit,” Yumio admitted with a small laugh, making both girls giggle.

  Miyana, elegant in her lavender gown, carried herself with the poise of her prestigious Hoshizora family. She was the only outsider who had consistently visited the Kishimoto estate, one of the rare few who had seen Yumio’s quiet world behind the mansion walls.

  “I didn’t expect so many people,” Yumio confessed, her eyes darting nervously over the crowded hall.

  “Well, everyone wanted to meet you,” Miyana replied knowingly. “It was bound to be overwhelming.”

  Yumio exhaled, shoulders drooping slightly. Ariana, ever the spirited one, leaned closer. “Are you really alright?”

  “I’m fine,” Yumio said softly, though her tone betrayed hesitation.

  “You know what you need?” Miyana declared with a grin. “To stop sitting here and go talk with people. Make some friends tonight.”

  “But…” Yumio bit her lip. “I don’t know how.”

  “Don’t worry.” Ariana gently took her hand. “We’ll be with you. You won’t face it alone.”

  Yumio’s heart warmed at her friend’s sincerity. With a tentative nod, she allowed herself to be guided. The three girls made their way toward a group of ladies near the lavish food table.

  Across the way, Yumio caught sight of her brothers—Yurio sipping from a cup, Yukio already chatting animatedly with the girl in blue. Yumio managed a small, amused smile and mouthed a quick “Talk to you later,” before turning her focus back to her friends.

  The night had only just begun.

  The grand ballroom glittered with chandeliers, every corner of the Kishimoto Mansion alive with chatter and laughter. Yumio stayed close behind Ariana and Miyana, her gaze shifting nervously over the well-dressed crowd.

  “Ria! Mia! A pleasure to see you join us.” A girl in an elegant lavender gown waved with a bright smile.

  “Grateful to see you were able to attend. You said you were stuck with something,” Ariana remarked, tilting her head with her usual grace.

  The girl laughed lightly. “I was able to finish it in time. Wouldn’t dare miss this.”

  Then her eyes flickered past the two, finally landing on the girl who lingered quietly behind them. Her expression shifted with curiosity. “Wait… is that Princess Yumio?”

  At once, the circle of girls turned, their gazes warm but filled with awe.

  Ariana stepped forward with a soft smile. “Allow me to introduce you to my cousin—Princess Yumio Kishimoto.”

  Miyana placed a hand on Yumio’s back, encouraging her gently.

  Yumio bowed politely, her voice careful but kind. “Nice to meet you.”

  The group bowed in return, their manners refined, though their smiles betrayed their excitement. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Princess,” one said.

  Yumio shook her head quickly, cheeks flushing. “Please… just call me Yumio, or Mio if you’d like. A friend of Ria and Mia is already a friend of mine.”

  The girls relaxed instantly, their smiles widening.

  The girl Ariana had first spoken to stepped forward with grace. “Then allow me to go first. I’m Shayne Morales.”

  “Chasey Rivers, nice to meet you!” another said with bubbly energy.

  “Yaiza Wang, and this is my younger sister, Sevan Wang.”

  Sevan gave a shy little wave. Yumio, matching her timid gesture, waved back softly.

  “Juliana Villarreal.”

  “Evelyn Harper.”

  “Hailey Bennett.”

  “Willow Ainsworth.”

  “Yuina Arakawa.”

  “Naomi Moriyama.”

  “Akie Hayashi.”

  Yumio smiled gently at each of them. “It’s lovely to meet you all.”

  One of them—Hailey—tilted her head curiously. “So… what do you like to do, Princ—I mean, Mio.”

  Everyone burst out laughing, the tension breaking. Hailey laughed too, embarrassed.

  “Well…” Yumio hesitated for a moment, then admitted, “I like to read.”

  Evelyn’s eyes lit up. “Oh! You and Willow will get along quite well. She absolutely loves reading.”

  Yumio’s head turned quickly, hope flickering in her eyes. “Really? I’ve always wanted to have a proper book friend. Ria and Mia aren’t all that interested, so I usually keep it to myself.”

  Willow leaned in with a surprised grin. “What kind of books do you read?”

  Yumio’s voice softened with excitement. “Lately, I’ve been absorbed in the Myriantha Series.”

  Willow nearly dropped her glass. “No way… you have the Myriantha Series?!”

  Yumio nodded. “The whole collection. If you’d like, I can lend you one.”

  Willow’s jaw dropped. “Wait—don’t tell me… you actually own two sets?!”

  Yumio gave a small laugh, embarrassed. “Yes… Yukio and Yurio both bought me the series separately. So now I have doubles.”

  Willow clasped her chest dramatically. “You are officially my favorite person in this room.” She whispered the last part, making everyone burst into laughter again.

  The conversation flowed easily after that. They exchanged stories about their hobbies, favorite foods, and little quirks. To Yumio’s surprise, no one treated her like an outsider. For the first time in years, she felt like she wasn’t standing at the edges of someone else’s world.

  But after a while, Yumio felt the weight of so much social energy pressing down on her. Her chest tightened slightly, and her thoughts slowed. She needed space.

  Quietly, she tapped Ariana on the shoulder. “I’ll just step out for some air.”

  Ariana turned instantly, her brows creasing with concern. “Do you want me to accompany you?”

  Yumio shook her head and smiled faintly. “No, I’ll be fine. Thank you for offering.”

  Ariana studied her cousin for a moment longer, then nodded. “All right. Don’t be gone too long.”

  “Where’s Mio going?” Akie asked curiously as Yumio slipped away.

  “She just needs to recharge,” Miyana explained with a soft smile.

  The girls all nodded in understanding, returning to their chatter, while Yumio slipped quietly through the side doors into the calm night air. For the first time that evening, she breathed freely.

  Being on the balcony always felt like an escape for Yumio. It was the one place in the mansion where she could breathe freely, without the weight of eyes following her every move. Tonight, it was even more special.

  The garden below stretched wide, illuminated by silver moonlight. The flowers her father gifted her on her tenth birthday swayed gently, their fragrance carried upward by the cool night air. Above her, the stars glittered like scattered diamonds across a velvet sky, and the full moon seemed to glow brighter than ever, casting her in a soft, ethereal light.

  She closed her eyes, letting the breeze wash over her pale skin, carrying away the restlessness she had been holding in all evening. And without realizing it, a melody slipped past her lips.

  Her voice was clear, delicate yet strong, filled with emotion that made even the air seem to pause and listen:

  In my deep and peaceful slumber,

  The stars kept watch, the heavens stood guard.

  In my mother’s embrace, life was like heaven,

  And this heart in sorrow longs for the cradle’s sway.

  The lullaby had always stayed with her, a piece of comfort from long ago. Each note resonated deep within, like a memory hidden in her soul. For a brief moment, she felt truly free, as if the world outside the mansion’s walls wasn’t such a distant dream after all.

  But then—

  The soft creak of the balcony door interrupted her. Startled, she turned quickly, half-expecting to see her sisters or one of the maids checking on her. Instead, a boy stood there, framed by the golden light spilling out from the ballroom.

  He looked to be around her age, maybe a little older. His chocolate-brown wavy hair caught the glow of the lamps behind him, and his deep brown eyes reflected a quiet confidence that immediately drew attention. For a second, she forgot how to breathe.

  “Oh—pardon me.” He spoke first, his voice calm and polite. “I thought no one was out here. I didn’t mean to intrude. I’ll take my leave so you won’t feel uncomfortable.”

  He turned slightly, already prepared to step back inside, but something in his tone made Yumio act quickly.

  “No, it’s alright,” she said softly, almost surprising herself. “I’m sure the other balconies are already occupied. I don’t really mind some company.”

  He paused, then gave her a small smile—warm, genuine, yet slightly mischievous. “Alright then.” He stepped closer and leaned lightly against the railing beside her.

  For a while, silence stretched between them, filled only by the night breeze and distant laughter from the ballroom. Yumio stole a glance at him. Did he recognize her? No, she didn’t think so. Her bangs hung low, nearly covering her mismatched eyes. No one would know unless they looked closely—her green and blue eyes were too distinct, too telling of her identity as one of the Kishimoto triplets.

  She relaxed slightly, comforted by that small shield of secrecy.

  Her thoughts scattered when he suddenly turned to her, his gaze curious but not unkind. “I’ve never seen you before. Is this perhaps your first time attending a party like this?”

  So, he doesn’t recognize me. He must’ve come late. She smiled lightly to mask her relief. “Is it that obvious?”

  He chuckled, a low, rich sound that seemed to blend with the night air. “Well, the way you’ve chosen to isolate yourself here is a bit of a clue.”

  Yumio laughed softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “I was with my friends earlier. I just needed a little space to… recharge. Being around so many people is a little overwhelming.”

  “Understandable,” he nodded. “Some people thrive in crowds; others… not so much. Especially at their first big gathering. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it.” His lips curved into a friendly smile. “By the way, I don’t think I’ve gotten your name yet.”

  Her heart skipped. She hesitated, then forced a casual tone. “Uh… Mio.” She extended her hand carefully. She couldn’t reveal her real name, not when she didn’t know who he was or what family he came from. For all she knew, he could be connected to the rivals her parents always warned her about.

  He reached out without hesitation, his grip firm yet gentle. “Liam,” he introduced himself. His eyes flickered with curiosity. “Mio, huh? Is that a nickname or your actual name?”

  Yumio’s lips curved into a faint smile, but she kept her gaze steady. “It’s my name.”

  He studied her for a moment, as if trying to read her, then let go of her hand with a small smirk. “Well, nice to meet you, Mio.”

  “Likewise, Liam.”