I stretched my sleepy limbs as I tried to remember where I was. Strangely enough, I had almost forgotten my old bedroom. It was small but tastefully decorated, with paintings and ornaments hanging everywhere. I always loved the fact how bright the room was, thanks to the spacious window in the middle of the wall. Hanging above it was a grayish and used curtain, partly eaten from the clothes moths, but somewhat that old piece of garment still managed to look presentable. In the left corner of the room was a bed, probably standing there ever since grade school. Next to the bed was a wooden desk that was weakening under a heavy weight of different art supplies. There were oil paints, canvas, brushes and materials scattered everywhere. Illustrations and sketches were lying all over the floor, occupying the only chair in the room making it impossible to sit on. There was also a single cupboard, but there was no use in trying to open that.

It would be pointless denying my room was a hot mess.

Walls were painted with light green color, which was barely seen under a large display of the artistry. Well yes, I was a bit disorganized, but that was justifiable for an artist, or at least that was my best excuse. I wasn’t a lazy person, but there simply wasn’t enough space in the room to neatly store every piece of equipment. As far as I could find everything where I’ve put it, I was satisfied.

I threw on a t-shirt and the first pair of jeans I could find in a closet. I brushed my hair in a messy bun on the top of my head and called myself ready for a new day. It was probably still very early in the morning, considering I heard the muffled clanging of pots in the kitchen. There must have been a coffee brewing on the stove because its rich bitter and lightly sweet smell was wonderfully inviting.

My parents were getting ready for work. Since they didn’t open the store until seven o’clock, I guessed it was probably around six in the morning.

I pushed the bed covers and followed my nose toward the origin of the magnificent smell.

“Already up?” Father stopped scrambling eggs and looked at me. “You were exhausted yesterday evening, weren’t you? Why are you up so early?”

“Well father, I believe you know me too well. I simply cannot sleep when my mind is bursting with so many fresh ideas. I have to start to paint.”

“Wait. Now?” He couldn’t believe what I was saying.

“Now.” I confirmed. There was no sleep when my heart pounded with energy, excitement pumping through my veins.

“Look at her, husband, like mother like daughter,” Ivana smiled sweetly. “I appreciate your enthusiasm and hard work, but at least have something to eat,” mother pushed a cup of steaming hot coffee right under my nose.

“Like I could refuse that,” I rolled my eyes with the first sip I took. ”Heavenly,” I hummed.

I grabbed the fresh croissant from the plate and wolfed the pastry down, barely letting my taste buds to enjoy the sweet aroma of the vanilla filling. “As much I would appreciate a good chatter and catching up, I really have to start. I hope to finish the sketches today, so I could show you the concept.” I shoved the last bite into my mouth, only slightly ashamed, my eating habits right now weren’t any better than Barica’s. Pushing the chair away I pecked my mother on the cheek. “Have a nice day at the store, both of you,” waving half-heartedly I hurried to my room to collect all I needed. Stumbling left and right I unsuccessfully tried to avoid the dog, whose mission was to block my exit. Barica must have felt my enthusiastic mood, judging by his wagging tail and the amount of drool pooling on the kitchen floor.

“So eager, wife,” Boris hugged the love of his life. “Exactly like you.”

“There is a very promising season ahead of us Boris,” she said to her husband as they were quietly finishing up the breakfast.

“I sure do hope so, Ivana.” Boris looked into her eyes and patted her hand. He was worried not just about their business, but also about her. The weight she was carrying on her shoulders was too heavy, he was way too dependent on her. Counting on her that she will somehow keep their heads above the crushing tide.