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.

Thursday Night – Kael Residence, Aeron's Room


Ayaka stood at the threshold, her fingers curled into the frame. Her usually sharp white eyes looked dim under the hallway light.


He sat on his bed, staring out the window. The curtains swayed faintly. The moonlight cast long shadows on the floor.


Then, finally, a quiet, "Do what you want."


She stepped in slowly, like crossing a line she was never supposed to reach. It was the first time she had ever entered his room.


The air felt different in here. Cold. Ordered. A shelf of law books. A black notebook half-filled with business memos. A model car resting on the edge of the desk.


"I didn't mean to say it," Ayaka said, voice tight. "I just... I got mad at Yume, and the words slipped out."


Aeron didn't respond. He still hadn't looked at her.


"And now the entire school knows. Reporters know. Everyone knows."


His crimson eyes met hers. Still unreadable. Still quiet.


"But you didn't do it to hurt me," Aeron said at last. "You did it because you were afraid."


"I've seen it before," he murmured. "Fear makes people scream things they shouldn't."


Ayaka walked to his desk and sat in the empty chair beside it.


"You have no idea how much I regret it."


"I don't care about the school," Aeron said. "Or the media."


Finally, he said: "I wanted a place that was just mine. That wasn't touched by the world."


Then, without a word, she walked toward the bed — and gently sat beside him.


A moment stretched between them — heavy, fragile.


> "I don't care if you never call me your sister. But I'll protect you like one."


Then, softly: "You don't have to try so hard."


Ayaka smiled faintly, her heart tight in her chest.


Mirei stared at the news article displayed on her tablet:


> "Lucent President's Stepson Confirmed: Mystery Boy Identified as Aeron Kael."


Her fingers traced his name on the screen.


"Schedule a public statement. I want it clear that Asagiri Holdings recognizes Aeron Kael as part of Lucent's legacy."


> "They want to touch him now. But I'll make it so none of them can even breathe his air."


Chapter 40 - ch.40 First Step Past the Door