Mother knelt in the corridor, hugging me tightly with both arms. Suppressing her sobs, she said, "I'm sorry. I've been such a useless mother. I couldn't even help Fujino escape with you."
"Mommy, why do we have to run?"
I felt somewhat puzzled.
Just now, for some reason, Mother had rushed into my room with a terrified look on her face, picked her up while she was still doing her homework, and run with her toward every exit in the house.
But for some reason, none of the doors could be opened.
"Because bad people have come to the house. They've taken your father hostage and want to see you."
Mother hugged me tightly and said, suppressing her fear, "If I don't take you and Fujino away, they might do something terrible to you."
"But... if I don't go, won't Father be in danger?"
As if frightened, I shrank into Mother's arms, using that to express that I was actually afraid.
After all, wasn't it normal for a girl her age to show fear when she encountered danger?
"...Even if your father dies, Mommy will still inherit quite a lot of his property."
For some reason, Mother's voice turned a little cold. "That money will be enough for me to raise you, Fujino, and let you live a fairly good life for the rest of your life..."
As if I understood, I nodded slightly.
Then Mother picked me up again and carried me toward the living room. Somehow, I vaguely understood what kind of resolve she had come to.
"Fujino... whatever I told you before, don't tell anyone else, all right?"
On the way, Mother spoke to me in a lowered voice.
I nodded slightly to show my agreement.
________
Ten minutes earlier.
Inside the Asagami Family reception room.
"Bang!"