Nicole's Pov
My mother and I return to my cozy apartment after our relaxing picnic at Drake's pack grounds. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow through the windows, highlighting the simple yet welcoming decor of the space. My mother sets down her handbag on the kitchen counter, humming softly, while I head to my bedroom to get ready for my evening shift at the hospital.
As I change out of my casual picnic attire into my neat scrubs, the room takes on a quiet energy of preparation. I smooth out the creases in my uniform and tie my hair back in a practical bun, my mind already shifting to the tasks ahead. The soft sound of running water and clinking dishes drifts from the kitchen as my mother tidies up from our outing.
I step out of my room, checking the essentials in my bag: ID badg
