The wake-up is difficult, emerging from my cozy covers, slipping on my unicorn slippers, and immediately feeling the urgent need for coffee. I drag myself out of my room, descending the stairs like a zombie, muscles sore and eyelids heavy as lead.

Like yesterday, I collapse onto the first stool, my head resting heavily on the counter. The familiar sensation of wood against my forehead is strangely comforting. Through my sleepy haze, I sense two people in the lobby: Alastor and Husker. Even half asleep, I notice Husker trying to hold back a laugh.

What's so funny? Whatever. All I need is coffee.

Husker: "Coffee, kiddo?" Husker offers, his voice tinged with amusement.

Husker, you're my savior. I nod, still resting my head on the counter. I should still say hello to them... I manage to lift my head somewhat, propping it up with my hand, and turn to the boys.

Me: "Good morning, Husker, good morning, Alastor," I say, attempting a smile.

Alastor: "Go... good morning, my dear," Alastor replies, a bit hesitantly, but gently.

I look at him, but then avert my gaze... Why? Did I do something wrong? Is Alastor upset with me for leaving him alone on the balcony? But he told me to go to sleep... I don't understand anymore, I don't understand him...

Husker: "Here you go, kiddo," Husker says, handing me the coffee.

Me: "Thank you, Husker," I say gratefully.

I drink my coffee in one go. Ah! That hits the spot. I pat my cheeks and let out a smile. Finally, I'm fully awake.

I turn to Husker, who is barely containing his laughter, while Alastor blatantly ignores me. What did I do wrong? Why is he ignoring me? And why is Husker laughing at me?

Me: "What's wrong? Do I have something on my nose or something?" I say, annoyed.

Husker finally bursts into laughter. I puff out my cheeks, feeling offended. There's confirmation: he's making fun of me.

Husker: "You really aren't a morning person, kiddo," Husker says, laughing.

I don't get it... What's gotten into the big cat? Alastor clears his throat and says softly:

Alastor: "Your outfit, my dear, is very cute and lovely..."

He clears his throat, leaving his sentence hanging, but the implication is clear in his tone.

Alastor: "... but perhaps it should remain within the realm of privacy, don't you think?"

I feel the stares on me, and a wave of heat rises to my cheeks as I suddenly realize the inappropriateness of my attire. My hands instinctively grip the edge of the counter, seeking support in my growing embarrassment.

I glance quickly at Husker, whose frozen expression betrays his surprise at Alastor's remark. But right now, I'm too absorbed in my own awkwardness to dwell on their reactions.

My gaze drifts downward, where my fluffy cat pajamas and unicorn slippers suddenly seem out of place in this setting. Oh no! Damn it! Why didn't I take the time to change before coming downstairs?

The blush of shame floods my face, burning my cheeks as I grasp the extent of my clumsiness. Without another word, I leap off my stool, the urgency of the situation prompting me to act quickly.

Me: "I'll go change, sorry!" I stammer, letting out my apologies before rushing out of the lobby.

My feet pound the floor hastily as I sprint toward my room, frantically seeking refuge to hide. A mix of embarrassment and humiliation drives me to want to disappear, at least temporarily, until the redness in my cheeks fades and I can face others again.