123.

The sun began to shine, casting its rays through the gaps in Emily's bedroom curtains, illuminating her face. She was still half-asleep after a long video call with her boyfriend last night.

At 7:00 AM, Emily's phone alarm blared. As if it were a routine, she reached for the flat device and quickly silenced the alarm. Instead of rushing to get ready, Emily pulled the covers back over herself and went back to sleep.

The alarm went off again at 7:30 AM.

"Ugh!" Emily covered her mouth with her hand as she yawned. The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, causing her retinas to react.

"What time is it?"...