A beautiful teenager lay sprawled across her bed, hair scattered like spun gold across the pillow, looking completely carefree, as if the world had no problems for her. The morning sun peeked through the curtains, but she remained blissfully asleep.
After several minutes of futile attempts, her mother finally barged into the room.
"Sierra! Wake up! Did you even realize today is your first day of college? I've been trying to wake you since six! I wonder what your future husband would think about this!" her mother exclaimed, flustered.
Sierra barely stirred. Her mother, growing impatient, marched to the bathroom, fetched a bucket of water, and dumped it over her sleeping daughter.
"Ahhh! Mom! That's—that's not how you wake someone up on their first day!" Sierra screamed, flailing her arms and bouncing upright. Her hair was soaked, sticking to her face, but she couldn't help laughing at her mother's exasperated expression.
"Nonsense, girl!" her mother shook her head with a mix of annoyance and amusement before storming out of the room.
Sierra quickly dried herself, giggling at the chaos of her morning, and got dressed. She chose an outfit that was simple but neat, reflecting her natural, effortless style.
By the time she reached the kitchen, her family was already seated. She waved brightly. "Good morning, everyone."
"Good morning!" her parents and older brothers replied in unison.
"How are you, our little one?" her mother asked, smiling warmly.
"I'm good," Sierra said, grabbing a piece of toast and taking a bite. She looked around at her family, feeling a little flutter of excitement mixed with nerves. College felt like a whole new world, but somehow, being surrounded by her family made her feel safe.
Her eldest brother teased, "Don't forget, you're supposed to be the perfect student starting today. No sleeping in next time, okay?"
Sierra rolled her eyes but laughed. "Yeah, yeah. I'll try not to drown in homework on the first day."
Her youngest brother chuckled. "Try not to embarrass yourself in front of your professors either."
She grinned, tossing a piece of toast at him, which he caught with a laugh. "Don't worry, I'll manage."
Once breakfast was finished, her eldest brother offered to take her to college. Sierra slung her bag over her shoulder, her heart pounding with anticipation. She glanced back at her family, waving. "Wish me luck!"
"Good luck, Sierra!" they all called after her, their voices full of warmth and encouragement.
As she stepped outside, the cool morning air hit her, and she felt a mixture of nerves and excitement. Today was the start of something new, and even though she was innocent and talkative, ready to laugh and speak her mind, she couldn't help but wonder what adventures awaited her beyond the familiar walls of home.