Lily was a whirlwind of energy, rushing around the room, tugging at my hand to get me out of bed. I stretched lazily, feeling the weight of sleep still clinging to my body, but I could already tell there was no escaping her enthusiasm.
She was relentless when she wanted something, and right now, she wanted me awake.
"Alright, alright, I'm up!" I said, swinging my legs off the side of the bed and standing up. Lily giggled in triumph, satisfied with her victory.
I shuffled over to the bathroom, glancing at my reflection in the mirror. My hair was a mess, and dark circles under my eyes reminded me of how poorly I'd slept.
Thoughts of Ciara had haunted my dreams, flickering images that I couldn't shake, but I quickly brushed them aside. Today was a new day, and I had to focus on work.
After a quick shower, I felt more awake, the hot water washing away the remnants of sleep and the confusion from the night before.
