Choi Haesoo picked up the wet rag that she had let go of. The floor underneath the sofa strangely looked dirty despite having wiped it just now. Only after she rubbed it until it started making squeaking sounds was she able to let go of the rag.

She sighed softly and looked at the house that she had just cleaned. Whether it was above the fridge, above the closet, underneath the sofa, and even the veranda, she went through all places that she had left behind even during Spring cleaning season with the excuse that she was too small or couldn’t reach.

She muttered to herself that she wouldn’t try this hard even if they were moving houses.

She placed the ceramic dolls she bought in a hurry two days ago into the right angle and checked the time.

It was 1 p.m. — almost time for them to arrive.

“They’re almost here. Where are you?”

-Why are you causing such a fuss? It’s not like we’re expecting very important guests.

“Then why did you go hiking all of a sudden when you never went before?”

-I just wanted to come.

“Who are you trying to fool here? You left because you felt awkward seeing them. Don’t be like that and come back. You need to see his face at least.”

-He’s not her marriage partner; he’s just a friend. Is there really a need for me to be there too? The one who’s coming will feel awkward too.

“Didn’t you hear what Haneul...