When the sky started to turn red, Adrien moved to the hall downstairs. He sank into the couch and continued reading his book - he managed to finish one more chapter before he heard the loud creak of the heavy wooden door. He leaped up and rushed to the foyer. Val had returned, carrying his many purchases in overloaded bags slung over his back; he looked tired, but he was smiling.

"Oh, hello, Adrien", he said.