Ignore it and go to sleep

Fatigue weighed heavily on Kate, and her grogginess was compounded by a lack of interest in any physical intimacy. She sought refuge from the sounds of Oliver's apartment by muffling them with her pillow, drifting back into the embrace of sleep within mere minutes.

Morning brought with it a fresh start, but Kate awoke to find Jake preparing for his workday. He leaned in for a gentle kiss, apologizing, "Sorry, didn't mean to wake you."

Kate, still bleary-eyed and nestled beneath her covers, managed a muted response. "It's okay," she mumbled, returning his kiss with a light one of her own.

As Jake made his departure, he offered a parting sentiment. "Gotta go, hun. Don't work too hard today."

Kate nodded in acknowledgment, her voice barely above a whisper. "See you later."

Once alone, Kate embarked on her morning routine, which included a revitalizing shower, dressing for the day ahead, and a swift breakfast of cereal and milk. A task soon beckoned her attention, a reminder that groceries were on her agenda. The prospect of hauling bags of groceries alone prompted her to consider enlisting someone's help for the task.