*Lily*
I stirred from my bed, my eyes heavy with sleep betraying the reluctance of my body to rise.
I tiptoed past Rachel's bed, where she lay in undisturbed slumber, her chest rising and falling peacefully. I moved to my wardrobe, selecting my outfit with care; practicality was paramount for the outdoor excursion, but I couldn't suppress the desire to look presentable—after all, Adrian would be there.
"Make sure you pack something warm," Rachel had advised yesterday, her words now echoing in my decision to grab a snug sweater.
One night away seemed a mere blink, yet the meticulous part of me triple-checked each item Rachel and I had packed before going to bed last night. After I made sure everything was settled, I stepped into the shower to start getting ready.
An hour whisked by in silence, and with a gentle shake, I roused Rachel after I got ready.
"Morning, sleepyhead," I chimed, a playful lilt in my voice.