Then she started searching number on phone, dialed it, and talked for a long time. But I couldn’t hear anything at all. Mayoki had gone quite far away from me to talk, and she was even turned in the opposite direction. After finishing the call, she ran toward me and said happily,

  Hiroshike, it’s done. We can rent the house now. The owner said it will take about 10 to 15 minutes to arrive. I told you before, if I called, owner would definitely come.

  Hearing Mayoki’s words, I felt a sense of relief. At least now I could sleep comfortably tonight. I looked at her with some surprise and asked,

  But what did you say to her that made her agree to come so late at night?

  I said what needed to be said, Mayoki replied with a slight smile, Now, can you see that tree behind you in the distance?

  Yes, I can see it, I answered, feeling confused, But what happened? Did you see something strange there again?

  No, no. Go and hide behind that tree. Go quickly before the owner arrives, Mayoki said suddenly in a serious tone.

  You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

  Hearing her words, I was startled and shouted,

  What! Why should I hide behind the tree? We are renting the house together. So we will talk to the owner together, right?

  After hearing my words, a slight tension appeared on Mayoki’s face. She looked at me and spoke in a serious voice,

  You think too much. Just do as I say. Otherwise, if the owner sees us together, forget about renting the house, she might hand us over to the police first. Look, you can see the car’s lights. I think the owner has arrived. Go, quickly, or she will see you.

  I quickly ran and hid behind the tree, and slightly peeked out to watch. Mayoki was standing near the main gate, and from a distance, a pickup truck arrived and stopped in front of her. An elderly woman got out and walked toward her. They talked for a while and entered the house.

  Their actions made my fear grow.

  They went inside… What should I do now? Did Mayoki trick me and rent the house for herself? She didn’t even tell me what she said on the phone. Should I go inside too?

  No… that wouldn’t be a good idea.

  If she really betrayed me, the owner might think I’m a thief and call the police.

  …I should wait a little longer.

  After what felt like an eternity, they finally came back outside. The elderly woman handed a key to Mayoki before leaving.

  From a distance, Mayoki gestured for me to come.

  She went inside, and I quickly ran after her.

  Even though the house looked old from the outside, the interior was surprisingly new. And it was entirely made of wood. I had rarely seen a house like this before,

  Mayoki, you didn’t tell me what you said to the owner. And why did you tell me to hide behind the tree? I don’t understand anything.

  Mayoki turned back and looked at me. All the smiles on her face disappeared instantly. Her eyes suddenly became cold. She stared at me and began to speak,