this is the first day of my life. it begins with a solitary feminine form draped over an armchair. she is scarcely clothed, her hair is awry, her feet are bare. she is slumbering. she is me.

the windows were left open, the morning sun awakens her. her eyelids flutter, slowly opening with confusion. she seems surprised to be alone. a slender arm reaches for the packet of cigarettes on the floor beside the armchair. the smoke is lit, she inhales deeply, she closes her eyes and breathes it out. she breathes it in. out. in. calm. calm.

she rights herself in the chair and looks around. her neck is angular and elegant, her lips are pursed. she sighs. she rolls her head, and her neck makes cracking noises.