Christina was awakened by the sudden blare of a horn outside the window.
Using both hands and feet, she crawled out from under the covers and went to the window to look down at Daffodil Street, which had already grown busy. Only after seeing the steam-powered vehicle, belching smoke and constantly trembling, slowly drive away did she pout, close the window, draw the curtains, and prepare to go back to bed for a little more sleep.
It was the weekend anyway. She didn't have to go to school... she muttered.
But at that moment, an aroma mingling heated grease with the scent of roasting protein drifted into the bedroom.
Mom's breakfast is ready... She hesitated as she looked at the bed, but ultimately sighed, folded the bedding, and went to the washroom on the second floor.
When she switched on the light, the mirror reflected a face crowned with messy light-golden hair and purple eyes that were dull and listless, clearly not yet awake.
She immediately smoothed her hair, rubbed her eyes, straightened her back, and struck a more flattering pose in the mirror.
Though she was only thirteen this year, good nutrition and the height she had inherited from her mother had already made Christina the most eye-catching girl at school.
When will this part grow to be like Mom's... She gestured at her chest, then abruptly shook her head and washed her face with cold water, clearing her mind a little.
After washing up, changing out of her nightgown, and picking out a casual dress from the wardrobe, Christina left her bedroom again. When she passed her older sister Dorothy's room, she held her breath and carefully listened for movement inside, then gently pushed at the door.
She's still asleep... A smile appeared at the corner of her