The soft chirping of birds filters through the partially open window, gently pulling Marilena from the depths of sleep. She squints against the warm morning light that spills across her bedroom, painting the walls in hues of gold. Stretching her limbs, she savors the cozy cocoon of her blankets for just a moment longer before the day's responsibilities rush back into focus.
"Alright, time to get up," she murmurs to herself, pushing the covers aside. Her dog, Max, stirs at the foot of the bed, lifting his head and wagging his tail in recognition of the morning ritual. "Good morning, buddy," she smiles, reaching down to give him a gentle scratch behind the ears.
