The teacher informed me that my exchange student application had been approved and I could proceed with the formalities. After rummaging through my documents for a while, I realized I had forgotten some at home and had to send a message to Mom.

It took a while to get a reply.

— "Saturday afternoon."

— "Come over then."

When I went home to retrieve my things, I only brought a small bag.

The housekeeper was slightly surprised to see me when she opened the door.

I nodded and asked, "Where did you put the things I left in my room?"

"In the storage room on the second floor."

After thanking...