#Chapter 176: Disengaged

I found myself awakening to the first rays of daylight that streamed through the curtains. My eyes blinked open, and as I turned to look at the room, I saw Olive sitting on the edge of my bed, her big green eyes staring back at me. "Good morning!" she exclaimed with a bright smile, her enthusiasm infectious even at such an early hour. I smiled back at her, pushing aside the weariness that clung to me. "Good morning, Olive. Did you sleep well?" Olive nodded enthusiastically, her pigtails bouncing with her movements. "I had the best sleep ever! But now I'm hungry. Can we have pancakes, please?" I chuckled at her enthusiasm. At least one of us got a good amount of rest. "Pancakes it is, Olive. Why don't you play with your toys for a bit, and I'll get breakfast ready for you?" She nodded and hopped off the bed, her action figure in tow, ready to embark on a new adventure in the world of her toys. I dragged myself out of bed, which felt like an astronomical effort. The responsibilitie