Another day, another beginning.
I got up and looked at the clock hanging on the wall. 7:51 AM.
Why didn't I sleep well? I thought to myself, hands on my hips. I opened the window to breathe in the cool morning air.
"Mia! Breakfast is ready!" I jumped a little at the sound of my mother's voice. She always wakes up early—ever since I was a child, she's been a farmer here on our land. Sometimes, I feel like we're stuck here. I was born and raised in this farm. My dad never allowed us to live in the city. "It's chaotic, polluted, and full of people who'll take advantage of you," he always says.
I rushed to the bathroom to wash my face and brush my teeth. When I stepped out, I was startled to find Marco standing at my door.
"What's taking you so long? They've been calling you downstairs forever—move faster!"
He walked off before I could even answer. I sighed and rolled my eyes. I know he'll be mad when he sees me. The thought made me laugh a little. Just picturing him angry already cracks me up. But if he actually saw me laughing, I'd probably be trembling in fear.
Hmm. Pink sundress. My favorite. Light, casual, sleeveless, with thin straps and made of breathable cotton, decorated with floral patterns.
At the dining table, I saw my father reading the newspaper with a furrowed brow, my mom setting out bacon and bread for him—and of course, Marco, smiling while busy on his phone.
Who's he talking to this early?
I wouldn't be surprised if he's charming yet another girl. He's got that kind of presence—he looks just like Dad: sharp nose, well-built, and about 6 feet tall. The only difference is Marco's arms are covered in tattoos.
Wait… Who's that next to him?
They're deep in conversation—or at least he is. The other guy's clearly not listening, too busy on his phone.
"Ahhh, Mia, my dear!" my father greeted warmly as he stood to welcome me.
"Hi, Dad," I replied, forcing a smile.
Wait—where am I supposed to sit?! That guy beside Marco took my seat!
Ugh. Who even is he?!
"My dear, sorry about that. Sit here instead. This is Andreis, Marco's childhood friend. Do you remember him?"
Dad gently took my hand and led me to an empty seat beside my mom. I smiled—pretending—while glaring at this Andreis guy.
In fairness… he's handsome. Looks like he smells good. But… definitely seems arrogant. Hmp.
Breakfast smelled amazing, but I'd lost my appetite. I'm the princess of this house—then this guy shows up and steals my spot?!
I like sitting beside Marco—so I can tease him!
"Mia! Mom's talking to you! Are you deaf or what?" Marco snapped, clicking his fingers in front of my face.
Crap. I didn't realize I'd been staring at this Andreis guy!
I was just thinking about my usual seat, that's all.
"S-sorry. No, Mom. I'll just have bread today," I said with a half-smile.
"Are you okay? Are you sick? Bacon's your favorite, right?"
Mom touched my forehead, checking if I had a fever.
"No, Mom. I'm okay. Just not in the mood today," I replied, forcing another smile.
"Bro, looks like Mia's in a bad mood 'cause of me," Andreis joked, laughing as he playfully hit Marco's arm.
Marco laughed loudly and hit him back.
Ugh, I rolled my eyes at the two of them.