Valeria

Plopping down onto my bed, I let out a slow, weary sigh.

I don't know what it is about coming home to your own bed, but no matter how long or short I've been gone, the comfort always feels nostalgic.

Just sinking into this soft mattress and staring up at the ever-familiar ceiling seemed to ease the constant tension weighing down on my shoulders.

It was a small, fleeting relief, but I welcomed it nonetheless.

I exhaled softly, allowing my body to fully relax for the first time in what felt like days.

"I wonder where Senior went…?"

I murmured absentmindedly, shifting my gaze around the room.

Alice wasn't here.

"The practical are still ongoing for at least a week from now…"

Considering she had told me herself that she'd be staying in my room for a while, I had half-expected her to be here when I returned, since she didn't seem to have much to-do other than her thesis's.

But the room was empty.