Mom wouldn't be home until late, and both Georgia and Bear were asleep by nine-Georgia because she's a kid, and Bear because he's always so tired after a long day of NOT working. I'm
Mom wouldn't return home until late, leaving Georgia and Bear to settle in for the night. Georgia fell asleep early since she's still young, and Bear was also asleep by nine because he's often exhausted after a day that didn't involve work.
In the story, the quiet house and the kids' early sleep set the scene for a typical, peaceful evening, contrasting with the upcoming challenges they might face. The calmness...