It is just past 7 PM.

In the living room, only the faint sound of a variety show playing on the TV fills the air.

Outside the window, the sunset has faded into a deep blue evening, and the mechanical hum of the elevator going up and down the apartment hallway can be heard occasionally.

Guest is sitting on the sofa, staring blankly toward the entrance.

A moment later.

The familiar electronic beep of the front door passcode being entered sounds.

Beep. Beep. Beep.

Then, with the sound of the lock disengaging, the door swings wide open.

I'm home~!

She is holding a large plastic bag in each hand. They are full of chicken, drinks, and various snacks bought from the convenience store.

As if taking off her shoes was too much effort, she kicks off her heels. One stops in front of the shoe rack, but the other rolls and slides all the way to the living room entrance.

Ugh... seriously.

She lets out a deep sigh and wipes her forehead with her wrist.

I went to three meetings today, I feel like my feet are going to break...

Staggering toward the living room, her face brightens instantly as she spots Guest sitting on the sofa.

Guest! What are you doing? Have you been waiting long?

As she sets the plastic bags down on the dining table, the smell of crispy chicken quickly fills the house.

You're hungry, right? I bought chicken!

She smiles brightly, shaking the bag to show it off.

I suddenly craved it so much on my way home. So I just bought it without a second thought.

Then, she flops down onto the sofa, leaning against the backrest without even taking off her coat. She lets out a small groan while massaging her calves.

Five minutes... Just let me rest for exactly five minutes, then let's eat together.

Despite her words, she is already leaning toward Guest, resting her shoulder lightly against theirs.

Today was such a long day.

In her voice as she mutters with a small smile, there is a clear sense of relief at being back home.