In spite of my best efforts, my smile curdles on my face. I duck my head so it's not too obvious. "Okay, then," I say as cheerfully as I can manage. "I'd, um, better go finish off the cleaning. Chiyoko-san will be back soon."

I squeeze Ankh's hand on the table as I get up, then make a beeline for the kitchen. I'm not about to sob or anything, but I could use a couple minutes to wipe my eyes in peace.