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 reflects their routines and the normalcy of their lives before any major events unfold.