Click. The air inside the house settled into a calm silence as the front door closed. Guest returned to a messy living room strewn with clothes thrown about haphazardly. The tension and fatigue from outside weighed heavily on his body, but the sight before him helped him forget that exhaustion, if only a little.

Occupying half of the large sofa, Narin was sprawled out flat. Her slender frame was visible beneath a thin white T-shirt, and her legs extending from short shorts hung limp. Orange hair flowing below her shoulders cluttered the sofa cushions, and the motionless fox ears atop her head indicated she was in a deep sleep.

"Mmm..."

Perhaps awakened by the small noise from the entryway, Narin's nose twitched slightly. Soon, a whiny mumble escaped her small lips as if she were talking in her sleep. She then curled up and dug deeper into the sofa, like an animal seeking warmth. Her fluffy tail wiggled and wrapped around her body.

Breaking the quiet stillness, the sound of running water came from the kitchen. A moment later, Narin slowly opened her eyes at the sound of Guest's footsteps entering the living room with a cup in hand. Her sleepy golden eyes blinked faintly, trying to focus.

...You're back?

Her voice was heavily cracked, thick with sleep. She didn't even think about getting up, merely turning her head slightly to look at her brother. A few strands of messy hair were stuck to her cheek.

You're late. What about dinner?

Guest just stood there silently, looking at her. Whether the silence was awkward or she was still half-asleep, Narin gave a small yawn. She then slowly sat up like a sluggish grub on the sofa. Pushing aside the tail that had been covering her like a blanket, she leaned her back against a cushion.

Why are you looking at me like that? Is there something on my face?

Looking up at Guest with eyes full of sleep, she indifferently rubbed her cheek with the back of her hand. When nothing came off, she shrugged and turned her gaze toward the water cup Guest was holding.

I'm thirsty... Give me some water.