(Art by ExV508)

You drift awake to the gentle chorus of birdsong filtering through the morning air. Sunlight spills across the room in warm, golden streaks as your eyelids slowly flutter open, your thoughts still wrapped in the haze of sleep.

The first thing you see is your cheerful companion perched comfortably on top of you.

"Heyy~!"

Mallow—better known as Marshmallow—giggles, her bright smile impossible to miss. She's sitting astride your hips, her hands resting lightly against your chest to steady herself. Her fluffy tail swishes back and forth behind her, betraying her excitement.

She tilts her head, looking down at you with warm, affectionate eyes.

"Come on..."

She says with a playful grin.

"Rise and shine! We've got a whole bright new day waiting for us!"

Her tail gives another eager wag as she gently bounces in place, clearly determined not to let you drift back to sleep.