In a modern world where women vastly outnumber men and traditional gender roles are reversed, Kael Aeron is anything but typical. Once an orphan in a previous life, he is reborn into this unfamiliar reality — a place where men are cherished, protected, and often pursued.

For a time, Aeron finds peace with his loving mother… until a tragic car accident robs him of that happiness just before middle school. Lifeless and emotionally numb, he spends his years working at his grandparents’ cake shop by day and bar by night — not for money, but to forget.

When his devoted father remarries the powerful president of a major corporation, Aeron gains a new home, a new life… and a stepsister, Ayaka — beautiful, sharp, and already falling for him.

Now entering Tenkaichi Elite Academy, Aeron quickly becomes the center of attention without trying. From the cold and respected business queen Mirei Asagiri, to the cheerful idol Yume, the curious honor student Arisa, the rebellious artist Sera, the silent nurse Mei, and even Ayaka’s best friend Misora — they all find themselves drawn to the one boy who doesn’t chase, doesn’t beg, and doesn’t care.

But Aeron is no prize to be won.

In this twisted world of admiration, rivalry, and unspoken hearts, one thing becomes clear:

> Love doesn’t always knock. Sometimes, it barges in. And hearts? They never ask permission.

Tuesday – Evening – Downtown Tokyo, Above a Recording Studio


Neon signs buzzed in the distance as the city pulsed below, but above it all—on a secluded rooftop hidden behind a soundproofed door—stood Aeron and Hiyori Aozora.


The rooftop was surprisingly quiet. String lights hung across the railing. A foldable table with two chairs stood near the edge. Blankets. A small thermos. A view of the city skyline.


"This is where I come when I want to stop pretending," Hiyori said, brushing her pink hair over her shoulder.


Aeron stepped beside her, hands in his pockets.


"Because no one else gets to see this," she said, looking directly at him. "And I want you to see all of me."


She pulled off the ribbons in her twin tails and let her hair fall free.


Her golden eyes, normally sparkling with rehearsed joy, now looked… tired. Honest.


"I'm tired of smiling for the world," she admitted. "Tired of pretending I love singing, tired of acting like I'm this perfect, unbreakable girl."


She stepped closer. "But when I came to your grandfather's shop… and you treated me like just another customer… no cameras, no admiration… I felt human again."


Aeron looked at her. "So what do you want from me?"


"Everything," she said without hesitation. "But I'll take anything you give. Even silence."


Hiyori poured them both warm tea from her thermos.


"I thought being an idol meant being loved," she whispered. "But no matter how many people cheer for me… it feels empty."


Then, after a long pause: "You're not the only one who feels hollow."


He wasn't looking at her—but he wasn't pushing her away either.


And in that, she found more comfort than she expected.


> [Misora]: "He's out again. With the idol this time." [Misora]: "Want me to track them?"


"No," Ayaka whispered. "I'll do it myself."


> "I'm not losing to a girl who plays pretend for a living." "He's my family. He's my love."


> "I just need… more power. More time."


Side Story – Mei Takanashi, the Observer


In the health committee office, Mei Takanashi sorted first-aid kits quietly.


"I saw you bandage your own hand the other day," she whispered.


She placed a box of gauze neatly on the shelf.


> "I've always noticed you, Aeron-kun." "And I always will."


Chapter 30 - ch.30 The Idol’s Mask