Astra awoke as her alarm rang, her eyes gently opening as she swiftly commanded, "Off."
With the alarm silenced, she sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She glanced over at the vacant spot beside her, her thoughts wondering why she had assumed he would stay.
Astra reached for the note that lay nearby, her eyes scanning its message: "Hey, I've left the planet. I'll be back in about a week. Liangyi."
She placed the note back down, her mind dwelling on the previous night's events. A blush warmed her cheeks as she reflected on everything she had shared with Elias.
The experiences of yesterday had only intensified her regret for not fully embracing her previous life and exploring all it had to offer. She resolved to make the most of this new chance.
After rising from bed, Astra went about her morning routine, slipping into a dress before descending the stairs.