(Adrian's POV)
The laughter outside faded as I followed Grandpa into the study. The air in here always smelled like old books and faint sandalwood — a room that had seen too many family decisions.
He didn't speak right away. He stood by the window, watching the garden. The golden sunset bled through the curtains, painting his silver hair in light.
"Adrian," he finally said, his voice calm but heavy. "I heard something happened today. Tell me the truth."
I took a breath. "It was nothing, Grandpa. Just some people I didn't recognize. I handled it."
He turned around slowly, eyes sharp but kind. "You handled it? You're still a student, not your father. Don't carry burdens that aren't yours yet."
My chest tightened. "If I don't, who will? You're not as strong as you used to be, and Ciel… she doesn't know half of what's going on. If I don't step in, we'll lose everything he built."
For a moment, silence. The kind that feels like a knife.
Grandpa walked closer, placing his hand on my shoulder. "You sound just like your father." His voice softened. "He always wanted to protect everyone — until it broke him."
I looked down. "Then I'll protect what's left of us."
He sighed, shaking his head slightly. "The world outside isn't kind, Adrian. Especially to those born with responsibility. But you're not alone. Remember that."
I nodded, not trusting my voice.
"Go now," he said finally. "Your friends are waiting. You've earned at least one evening of peace."
When I left the study, the noise of laughter and clinking glasses from the living room filled the air again. Ciel was teasing Yuri, Kiefer had his arm around Jayjay, and for a second, it felt like the world wasn't falling apart.
I smiled a little.
Maybe Grandpa was right.
For tonight… I could let myself breathe.
Later that evening, after dinner, everyone began to pack up. The cars lined up outside, headlights glowing softly against the night air. There were goodbyes, a few jokes, and tired smiles.
Ciel waved at everyone before heading inside with Grandpa. I stood at the doorway, watching as one by one, my friends drove away — until the house finally grew quiet again.
Everyone was gone home.