9:30 PM.
Aozawa returned to the Morimoto Family on time.
He hummed an off-key tune as he took out his keys to open the door.
The living room inside was pitch dark.
Aozawa pressed the light switch, and the warm light illuminated the living room; it was empty.
He continued to sing as he walked toward the bedroom, intending to pick up clothes for a shower.
When he opened the door, he smelled that familiar scent of perfume.
Morimoto Chiyoda stood silently in the darkness inside the door, her face expressionless.
"Chitose, why are you back hiding in my room?"
"I thought you'd be lonely by yourself at home, but it turns out you walked in humming cheerfully, looking so pleased with yourself." Morimoto Chiyoda managed a smile that did not quite reach her eyes, scrutinizing Aozawa.
