The setting sun cast long shadows across the University campus as Ciara finally reached her apartment building. Her backpack felt like it weighed a ton, and her legs ached from a day of rushing between lectures, library sessions, and meetings.
She fumbled with her keys, finally managing to unlock the door and collapse onto the couch. The familiar scent of her apartment, a mix of laundry detergent and old books, was a welcome comfort.
"Dinner, shower, notes," she mumbled to herself, her voice barely a whisper. But as she sat there, the weight of the day finally caught up to her. Her eyelids felt heavy, and a wave of exhaustion washed over her. She knew she should get up, but the thought of even moving seemed impossible.
She closed her eyes, the soft hum of the refrigerator and a lullaby
