The sun hung high in the sky, casting warm rays on Ava as she leaned against her kitchen counter, a half-empty water bottle clutched in her hand. It had become a ritual for her—filling up her glass, downing it in a few quick gulps, feeling the refreshing liquid cascade down her throat, soothing her—all while imagining the benefits of hydration flowing through her veins. Today, though, she found herself drinking more than usual. The warmth of