You steel yourself and tiptoe down the stairs, only to find the rest of the house empty. Normally your aunt would be getting ready for dinner in a serious way right now, but the cushions and tables aren't out and the fire isn't even lit. You briefly wonder if you were supposed to be having dinner at someone else's house, or if possibly there was an emergency, but your curiosity is almost immediately overridden by the desire to not get involved in anything effortful. This might be your only chance to talk to your friends before your aunt gets back!