*Bianca*

When I woke, the first thing I took note of was the cool draft in the air. I stuffed the edges of the blankets under me as if my goal had been to turn myself into a human burrito. Before I could bring myself to leave the warmth of my bed, I heard a gentle knocking at my door.

“Bianca, are you awake yet, darling?” I heard my mom’s voice through the solid wood.

“You can come in, Mom,” I said, raising my voice just enough for her to hear me ...