A Facade Fracture

The weight of their watchful eyes followed Fumiko as she swept past the staff and climbed the grand staircase. The nanny, a woman with kind eyes and a gentle smile, approached her.

"Madam, you're so late. The young master has been waiting for you for quite some time."

Fumiko forced another smile. "Yes, I apologize for the delay. I'll be there to see them shortly. But before that, could you tell me about Hiroto? Has he come home yet?"

The nanny's smile faltered for a brief moment, but she quickly recovered. "Oh yes, Master Hiroto is already in his room.Shall I call him down for you?"

Relief washed over Fumiko. "No, that won't be necessary," she said, a touch too quickly. "It was just... I wanted to know if he was back."

The awkwardness hung heavy in the air. "Of course, madam," the nanny finally said.

Fumiko offered another strained smile and continued towards the stairs, her pace quickening. She needed to speak to Hiroto, and fast.