"Papa… Mom already drank it."
Satomi whispered, her voice low with restrained excitement.
Satoshi gave a subtle nod, adjusting his tie with the same smug confidence he always wore when things moved according to plan.
"Alright. I'll go now."
He glanced across the ballroom toward Kyouko, who was now standing with the same serene posture.
The champagne flute was back in her hand, nearly empty.
Satoshi's eyes narrowed faintly.
"Go. Signal Mister Fujiwara. Tell him to request the music."
"Mm… I will."
Satomi smiled sweetly, then turned and walked toward the balcony where Fujiwara stood waiting, his drink untouched, eyes locked on only one woman.
Kyouko.
And across the ballroom.
Haruki began to feel it.
Just a slow warmth rising through his chest.
Something different.
As the soft music began to play, a gentle waltz rising from the grand piano in the corner of the hall, Satoshi stepped forward with perfect timing.
