The morning light filtered softly through the frosted windows as I stirred awake, feeling refreshed and ready to embrace the day. I padded to the bathroom, splashing cool water on my face to shake off the remnants of sleep. In the kitchen, the kettle whistled cheerfully, steam swirling in the chilly air as I placed two eggs in a pot, watching them bob gently in the simmering water. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room, wrapping around me like a warm hug against the winter chill.

After enjoying my simple breakfast, I ran a brush through my hair, the bristles gliding smoothly as I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Satisfied, I grabbed my bag and stepped outside. The sky was a blanket of grey, clouds hanging low, and the world was draped in a delicate layer of frost, remnants of snow clinging to the ground like a soft, white quilt. The crisp air nipped at my cheeks, invigorating and sharp, but it felt refreshing against my skin. With a spring in my step, I made my way to school, the crunch of the packed snow beneath my boots and the quiet stillness of winter enveloping me as I ventured into the day ahead.

After seven surprisingly easy classes—the kind where the clock barely ticks forward—I trudged home, my schoolbag dangling wearily from one shoulder. The moment I stepped through the door, the savory aroma of steaming dumplings greeted me, and I wasted no time in devouring a bowl, the dough soft and pillowy, the filling bursting with flavour.

With my hunger finally tamed, I flopped onto the sofa and had a proper natter with my mates over messages, laughing at silly memes and moaning about teachers. Before I knew it, I'd zoned out in front of my laptop screen, mindlessly binge-watching Power Rangers as the evening light faded outside my window.

By then, my brain had well and truly clocked out—the very thought of cracking open a textbook made me shudder. Homework? Not a chance. Even Italian, which I usually half-enjoyed, got brushed aside. I was absolutely shattered, my mind as useful as a chocolate teapot, and learning anything new felt about as appealing as a Monday morning.

Soon enough, I dragged myself to bed, completely knackered.