Annabeth

My heart was pounding. I was so close, only 5 blocks from my apartment building. Sweat was dripping down my back and my legs were burning. My blonde curls plastered to my face. I ran further than I normally do. I pushed myself over the edge. Finally, I spotted my building and let out a sigh. I stretched out and walked in.

Normally, on days I run, I take the stairs. Today, I was just too tired. The elevator was much more appealing. I pressed the 11 and slumped against the wall, watching the doors close. Pausing the music, I pulled out my earbuds and wound them up. The elevator came to a stop and I stepped out, taking the everyday route. I opened the door, dropped my things on the table, and hopped in the shower.

I run to keep myself in shape, and I don't have any other reason. I'm more focused on my college grades and getting my work done. Which would explain my lack of close friends and how often I'm in my apartment. Occasionally, I wonder who my roommate would have been if I chose the dorms. I even find myself wishing I was there from time to time. But my dorm didn't allow pets.

I threw my sopping hair up into a messy bun. This definitely wouldn't help with the curls, but I had other things on my mind. I gathered my weekend math work and sat down. Mittens jumped up into my lap and nudged me with her head.

"I missed you, too, Mittens," I said playfully, giving her a small kiss.

I grabbed my pencil and got to work.

When I woke up, my face was in my books. I sat up rubbing my eyes. I must have pulled an all-nighter, but at least I had the last day of my weekend free. I shivered and snatched my phone from the table. It was 45 degrees! The temperature dropped significantly since yesterday. I spotted my animal rescue hoodie and put it on. Cocoa sounded good; I've never been much of a coffee drinker. I reached for the box, but found nothing in it. I guess I was due for a shopping trip anyway.

I pulled on a pair of jeans and laced up my boots. My hair was a curly mess and definitely wasn't in the mood to fight with it. I pulled it back into a ponytail, not thinking to look in a mirror. Before putting it in my pocket, I checked the time on my phone, 9:30; perfect. I grabbed my keys and started for the door. Just as I turned the handle, I threw my keys back inside. The store is so close it wouldn't make much sense to drive, even if it was cold out. Besides, a walk in one of the first days of winter didn't sound so bad.