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01
Eternity POV
As I gradually peel back the covers, I can't help but feel a bit sluggish. Blinking several times, I try to adjust to the sudden beams of sunlight streaming in through the window. It's that time of day when the sunlight feels a little too harsh against my sleepy eyes, but I know it's time to get up. Eventually, I manage to sit up, let my feet touch the floor, and rub my eyes vigorously. Arms above my head, I give a good stretch and let out a big yawn, the sound echoing through the quiet apartment.
Living in my own place here in New York City is pretty sweet, especially at the ripe age of 21. No need to worry about living with my parents anymore! I've worked hard to get to this point, and though it's not the biggest apartment on the block, it's all mine.
Eternity's Apartment
My bedroom may be on the smaller side compared to my living room, but it's still cozy and fits everything I need perfectly. My bed, which is larger than I probably need, takes up a good amount of space, but I adore having it nestled in the middle of my square room. There's something comforting about the way it dominates the space-like a constant reminder that this is my sanctuary, my space to unwind. You'll often find me curled up here with a good book, basking in the natural light streaming through my window. It's one of my favorite moments of the day, especially when the sunlight hits just right.
Hidden storage above my built-in wardrobe keeps things tidy, although most of my belongings are stored under the bed. I've always been one to keep things organized, even when my life can feel a little chaotic at times. A roomy black shoebox keeps all my footwear neatly lined up, and I have a mirror hanging beautifully above a small table on my off-white walls, always giving me one last look before I head out the door. My tall white dresser is full of clothing, and my bedside table holds an alarm clock, rose-red touch lamp, and a snazzy blue Bluetooth speaker that plays my morning playlist.
As I was scrolling through social media, I couldn't help but notice how ordinary everything seemed. The usual posts, the usual drama-nothing stood out. I guess that's just life sometimes, right? However, I believe that with hard work and passion, every day holds the potential to be extraordinary. I remind myself of this often, though it's sometimes hard to remember when you're caught up in the mundane.
In the morning, I head towards the restroom to take care of business before putting on my trusty sweatshirt and shorts. Comfort over style, that's my motto. It's not like anyone's around to impress, anyway. Then, it's time for breakfast, and I make my way to the kitchen to grab something from the fridge. I'm about to settle on some toast when-
BAM!
The sound of a door slamming open interrupts my routine, and I jump in surprise. My heart leaps in my chest as the door to my apartment swings wide.
"Surprise, Eter!"
The unmistakable voice of my best friend, Olivia, rings through the room. I freeze for a second, blinking as my brain tries to catch up with the situation. Then, I can't help it-I burst into a wide grin.
"Olli, you're back!" I exclaim, unable to hide the excitement in my voice.
Olivia stands in the doorway, grinning just as widely. Her bright red hair falls in loose waves around her face, and her eyes gleam with a mischievous spark. Her signature leather jacket and combat boots are the perfect contrast to the soft floral dress she's wearing today-proof that she can still look chic while being a little rebellious.
"I wanted to surprise my hag," Olivia says with a wink, making her way over and pulling me into a tight embrace.
The hug is warm and comforting, and I can feel the weight of the distance between us melt away. Olivia's been in London on business for the past few months, and while we talk every day, there's something irreplaceable about having her right here. It's like no time has passed at all.
We pull apart, both of us grinning like idiots, and I lean against the kitchen counter, still in disbelief. "What are you doing here? I thought you were going to be in London for another couple of weeks!"
Olivia gives me a dramatic roll of her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest. "Yeah, well, plans changed. I couldn't leave my bestie hanging any longer."
I can't stop the grin that stretches across my face. "You're the best, Olli," I say, wiping away an exaggerated fake tear from my cheek.
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