Page 4 — Leaving the cafe, walking home. Four panels, no dialogue. Panel 1: Ash steps out of the cafe, warm light behind him, cold rain ahead. Messenger bag on shoulder. Panel 2: First front view of Ash's face — ice blue eyes blank, rain on his fur, headphones on. Adult face, absent expression. Panel 3: Dark apartment building in rain. Ash approaching, small against the dark facade. Panel 4: Inside — dark, sparse, empty apartment. Desk by rain-streaked window. Ash in the doorway, wet silhouette, water at his feet. No warmth. No one waiting.