The next morning came too quickly. Zinnia woke to the sound of her alarm, the sunlight barely breaking through the curtains. She rubbed her eyes and pushed herself up, feeling the familiar knot of anxiety tighten in her chest.
The meeting with Lily Oceanic Industries loomed over her like a dark cloud. She wasn't sure how she was supposed to handle it.
She shuffled to the bathroom, the cold tiles sending a shiver up her spine. After washing her face, she grabbed her toothbrush and squeezed a bit of mint toothpaste onto it. As she brushed, she tried to clear her mind, but the nervous thoughts swirled in her head. What if she messed up?
Once she finished brushing, she rinsed her mouth and turned on the shower. The steam quickly filled the small space, enveloping her in warmth. She let the water wash over her, allowing her thoughts to drift, but the anxiety wouldn't dissipate.
