~~ At Natalie's Home ~~
Peony turned to K-8 and requested, "Sir, would it be okay if you wait in the living room? My friend and I need some private space."
K-8, always alert, replied, "Signal me if you're in danger inside."
Natalie, Peony's college friend from the same English major, couldn't hide her curiosity as she exclaimed, "What kind of shady association are you in contact with, Peony? There's nothing here!"
Peony tried to soothe Natalie's worries, saying, "Don't worry, that's not what he meant." Turning to K-8 she continued,"You just wait for us here while we have a talk inside."
K-8 nodded and obediently waited in the living room while Peony and Natalie went into her bedroom.
Natalie, concerned, noted, "What's happened to you, Peony? You look so worn out. If I'd known you were in such a state, I wouldn't have asked you to come."