[English]
That was such a delicious brunch!
I'm so full.
Same here.
French toast and cappuccino — honestly, the perfect combo.
Totally agree.
Should we go ahead and ask for the bill?
I already did. The waiter’s bringing it over.
Great.
Wait, who had what again?
Honestly, let’s split the bill to make things easier.
Yeah. Good idea.
We all had something pretty similar anyway.
True.
I'm fine with that.
Here is the bill.
Alright then, the total is €45.
So that's €15 each.
I'll pay with my card.
You guys can just send me your part on PayPal.
Works for me.
I’ll transfer it now.
Group meals in Europe really are like this, aren’t they?
Definitely.
People usually just split the bill
without making a big deal out of it.
It keeps things simple. Especially when everyone’s having a chill time.
Excuse me.
Do you have a charger?
My phone battery is about to die.
What kind of phone do you have?
IPhone.
The lightning cable.
Let me check…
Yes!
Here you go.
Lifesaver.
Thank you.
Running low during a long day is the worst.
Especially when you rely on Google Maps to get everywhere.
right?
I always carry a powerbank just in case.
I should do that too.
This is the third time this week.
Lesson learned.
The coffee machine isn't working.
Should we try somewhere else?
Seriously?
That’s like… the third time this month.
I cleaned it yesterday.
Maybe the heating elements broken again.
Ugh, I was really looking forward to some coffee before studying.
Same here.
Want to try the little café near the tram stop?
The one with the yellow chairs outside?
Yep.
They have that strong Italian roast you love.
True.
And their almond croissants are the best.
Let's go.
We deserve a proper breakfast anyway.
Totally.
This machine clearly needs a holiday.
Just like us.
Except we have three chapters
to read before lunch.
That would remind me, but coffee first.
Always.
I’m so sorry, I’m late!
It’s okay!
I was starting to get worried, though.
I completely lost track of time
while working on this project.
I get it.
Finals are stressful.
I was just supposed to review a few slides
and suddenly it was 7 p.m..
That’s the power of concentration!
But don't forget to take breaks.
I know, I know.
Are we still going to the bookstore?
Of course.
It closes at 8, so we have time.
Perfect.
And again, sorry for making you wait.
It happens.
Next time, just send a quick message.
Will do.
Lesson learned.
Would you like some ice cream before you go?
If I eat ice cream now, we might not get there until tomorrow!
Hey Maya, do you mind if I open a window?
It's getting stuffy in here.
Not at all.
Actually, I was just thinking the same thing.
This summer heat is no joke.
I know, right?
Ever since we started studying for the exam, it’s like we forgot how to breathe.
Exactly.
Also, the heating is way too high.
Ugh, I know. And the fan’s not really helping.
I miss the breeze from outside.
There we go.
Much better.
I can actually feel some air moving now.
Thank you.
I always hesitate to open the window
during summer because of the noise.
Yeah, but it's worth it.
And in Europe, people love airing out rooms, even in the winter.
Right!
What’s that word in German again? Lüften?
Yep. Even in the hottest months, they swear by it.
Keeps the air fresh and helps
cool things down.
I'm starting to get used to it.
Feels way more breathable in here now.
Welcome to the European summer way of surviving without AC.
Haha, I guess I’m adjusting faster than I thought.
Hey Emma, there’s a cultural trip to Heidelberg next weekend.
Want to join?
Sounds fun!
But I’ll need to double-check my calendar before committing to that date.
Sure. No pressure.
I just thought it would be cool since you love castles.
I really do.
And Heidelberg Castle is on my bucket list.
We’ll leave Friday evening and come back Sunday night.
I think I have a group project due Monday.
Oh, that might be tough.
But if you finish early, you could still go.
True.
I'll talk to my group mates and see
if we can wrap things up before Friday.
Sounds like a plan.
Let me know by Thursday.
Deal.
Thanks for inviting me!
Anytime.
Emma, could you show me how to use this app?
I'm not very tech-savvy.
Of course, Mom!
Wait, are you trying to book your train to Cologne?
Yes.
I thought I’d go visit Aunt Laura while I’m here.
But this Deutsche Bahn app is driving me crazy.
Haha, yeah, it confused me too at first.
Okay, open it up.
Got it.
Now tap “Fahrplan” — that means timetable.
Enter Karlsruhe as the starting station, and Cologne as the destination.
Okay… done.
Now pick the date you want to travel.
Maybe Friday morning.
Perfect.
Scroll through the options.
So many trains!
How do I choose?
Look for one that has no transfers
and a short travel time.
This one looks good — 2 hours, direct.
Great choice.
Tap “Zur Buchung” — that’s “to booking.”
Should I reserve a seat?
I would, Fridays can be busy.
All right, done.
Thanks, sweetie.
It's so nice having you help me while I'm
visiting Germany.
I'm glad you're here, mom.
We’ll make a tech wizard out of you yet!
Emma, are you going to the film festival tonight?
Yes. I've been looking forward to it all week.
Same.
It ends pretty late though.
Do you have a way to get home?
I was thinking of taking the night bus.
Would you like me to give you a ride home after the event?
That will be safer for you.
Really? That would be great.
Thanks.
No problem.
I don't have my car there anyway.
I appreciate it.
I always get nervous walking alone late at night.
Totally understandable.
Safety first.
I’ll buy you a coffee tomorrow as a thank-you.
Deal!
But only if it's our place
with the amazing croissant.
You got it.
Mike… Mike! Wake up!
Five more minutes…
Mike! It’s late! We’re going to be late for work!
Nooo… why does work start so early? Can’t we all agree to start at noon?
Nope! Get up now!
Just five more minutes? Please? I’ll move extra fast after.
Oh really? Like last time? When your “five more minutes” turned into thirty?
Okay, okay. I’m up.
Good. Now go get ready.
Ugh… I need a new job. One that lets me sleep in.
Or maybe… you just need to sleep earlier?
That’s ridiculous. Who sleeps before midnight?
Responsible adults?
Exactly. Not me.
You're unbelievable.
And yet, you married me.
I'm still wondering why.
Because I’m charming? Handsome? Great sense of humor?
Or delusional?
That too.
Wait, where’s my morning kiss?
Just hurry up.
Are you gonna be late for work?
Oh no… I can’t go. My heart… something’s wrong!
What?! What’s wrong?!
My heart is missing its nurse.
I think I need some urgent care from my favorite nurse before I can leave.
Ugh, you’re impossible.
But adorable.
Debatable.
Please.
There. Now let’s go before you need real medical attention.
Ahh, much better. I feel healed.
Good. Now get moving.
Roger that, ma'am!
Good morning! What can I get for you?
Morning! Uh… I’ll have an iced latte with vanilla syrup.
Iced latte, vanilla syrup. Got it. What size?
Medium. No, wait. Large.
Sure. Anything else?
Ugh... Maybe a double shot of espresso. I need all the caffeine I can get.
Long night?
More like a short night. Sleep and I are not on speaking terms.
I can hear that.
Anything else?
Nope. I'm good.
That'll be 15 bucks. Cash or card?
Card, please.
Perfect. I’ll have that ready in a minute.
Cool. Thanks.
That croissant looks good. Hey, excuse me, can I get one croissant?
Got it.
Actually… no. The muffin. No, wait. The croissant.
Final answer.
Locking it in. Croissant.
That'll be 5 bucks.
There you go.
Iced latte, espresso and a croissant for Mike!
Thanks!
Have a great...
Uh… hey, I think the vanilla syrup is missing.
Oh no! Let me fix that for you. So sorry about that!
No worries.
One sec!
Here you go! Now with actual vanilla syrup.
Perfect. You just saved my morning.
Glad to help! Have a great day!
You too!
Well, well, look who finally decided to show up.
Good morning to you too, Emily.
Morning? It’s almost lunchtime.
It's fifteen to nine
Exactly. Late.
Fifteen minutes is not late. It’s fashionably delayed.
Tell that to our boss.
He's not even here yet.
True, but I like seeing you panic.
You're a terrible friend.
And yet, you keep me around.
Yeah. And you know what? I'm questioning my life choices every day.
So, why were you late? Overslept?
No, actually, I had a very serious medical emergency.
Oh, no.
What happened?
My heart stopped for a second. It was missing something.
Seriously?
It needed urgent care from my favorite nurse.
Oh my God.
What?
You really wake up and choose cringe, huh?
Every day.
I feel bad for Sarah.
She loves it.
Does she though?
Of course! She married me. That’s proof.
Or a mistake.
Rude. Anyway, are you ready for the meeting?
What meeting?
The project meeting. With our boss.
…Yeah?
It’s in ten minutes. And you're supposed to present.
Oh, no.
Oh, no no, no.
What?
I forgot to prepare.
Well well well...
Mike. I FORGOT TO PREPARE.
This… is the best day ever.
This is a disaster.
No, no, this is entertainment.
This is my funeral.
Should I start writing an eulogy?
Whatever.
Just what do I do?
Oh, I don’t know. Maybe… prepare?
I HAVE TEN MINUTES.
That’s nine more than you need.
Be serious!
Okay, okay. What do you even need?
Notes, numbers, anything.
Alright, alright, here, take my notes.
You took notes?
Unlike some people, I plan ahead.
Ugh, I love you.
I know.
I hate you too.
I know that too.
If I survive this meeting, I’m buying you coffee.
Deal. But if you crash and burn, I’m writing you an eulogy.
You wouldn't dare.
I absolutely would.
So, where are we eating?
I don't know. Somewhere good.
I'm in the mood for some Japanese cuisine today. Who's with me?
Nah. The last time I ate sushi,
I spent one night in the ER for food poisoning.
Don't blame sushi just because of your poor choice.
Forget about sushi and life choices. With inflation, I prefer something cheap
So, let's just head to the place across the street? Anyone?
That Italian place? Seriously?
Why not? We only have an hour for lunch.
Their food isn't that bad, anyway.
So, deal. Let's go. We technically have 57 minutes left.
Alright, I’m ordering for everyone.
Why do you always pick?
Because she's picky.
No, because I have taste.
I hate to admit it but yeah, she's right.
Debatable.
Says the guy who eats plain
turkey sandwiches every day.
Hey, it's a classic.
Right, but it’s boring.
And extremely sad.
Do I get a say?
NO!
So what's everyone doing tonight?
Probably just gaming.
Shocking.
What? It’s fun.
It's repetitive.
And your hobby is?
... Watching people cook.
So… watching other people do things while you sit?
Well. Yep.
I mean, that sounds nice.
Thank you.
Anyway. What about you, Sofia?
Might go to that new rooftop bar.
Fancy. Date night?
Nope. Alone. I just want to try it out.
That sounds sad.
Hey!
Actually, why not go to the cinema together?
Is there anything worth watching?
They're having reruns of the Lord of the Rings.
Really?! I'm a big fan.
Me, too. Let's forget the rooftop bar. I'm in!
What about you, Mike?
Can’t.
Why not?
I've got plans.
Oh, date night?
No, just hanging out.
With who?
Jake.
Your roommate.
Seriously?
My former roommate. Yes.
Wow. Romantic.
Shut up.
So guys, Mike can't come with us because he's on a date.
Because I have plans.
With your boyfriend.
I hate all of you.
We know.
You’ll regret missing out.
Doubt it.
Food’s here!
Finally.
If this is bad, I'm blaming you.
Too bad, no refunds.
Guys, let's eat.
Okay, what do you want for dinner?
Cheese.
Cheese is not an option.
So something with a lot of cheese.
I consider that no dinner for Mike today.
Just kidding! How about a burger?
Ugh, I would rather not touch the grill today.
Fine. What about pasta?
What kind?
I'm craving some lasagna.
Ugh, that’s way too much work after a long day.
So, what do you think?
Something healthier and easier.
Like.
Like some salmon and side salad.
That sounds boring...
Hey, it's better than your turkey sandwiches.
I take pride in my turkey sandwiches.
Right, right.
But I'm cooking today, so I get to decide.
Actually, I was about to volunteer to cook.
Oh. That's odd.
What's the occasion?
I'm hanging out with Jake after dinner.
Okay. So, are you cleaning up first?
I was hoping you would.
Oh. Were you?
That's cute.
Look, I’ll cook. You clean. Fair deal.
Are you actually going to cook?
Not just “supervise” while I do all the work?
This time, I promise.
Should I be worried about food poisoning?
Relax.
I've watched enough Master Chef
to know how to whip up a decent meal.
Last time you cooked something decent,
I was stuck in the bathroom for an hour.
Not this time, I swear.
Ugh... So, I'll just have to clean?
Exactly.
Hmm. Fine.
You won't regret this.
I already do.
Have a little faith.
I have faith that I’ll be ordering takeout.
That's rude.
That's accurate.
Alright, food’s ordered. Now, tell me, how was work?
Oh, you know, the usual.
Woke up late, got roasted by Emily, saved her from total embarrassment in a meeting.
Yeah, as usual.
Then had lunch with the team.
They tried to get me to see a movie tonight,
but I told them I already had plans with my one and only best friend.
I’m honored.
As you should be.
What movie?
The Lord of the rings.
Seriously?
Yep. Apparently, they're having a rerun of that trilogy.
Until when?
I didn't listen. Do you want to watch it?
Of course. I'm a huge fan.
Oh, I didn't know that. So, should we watch go to the cinema next week?
Don't worry. I'll go with my roommate.
Hey, I ditched my coworkers for you.
I know, but are you sure
you want to sit through three movies?
I mean, it can take up to nine hours.
No, thanks. I'll skip.
See. I actually save you by not inviting you.
Hi. Sorry to interrupt,
but we saw you guys just hanging out.
We’re about to start a game of Catan. Are you interested?
Oh. Oh no.
Yes! We're in.
No, no, no. I know myself.
I turned into a different person
when I played Catan.
It's fine. You know I love Catan.
It brings out something dark in me.
Come on, man. Why miss out on the fun?
Alright, fine. But just know, friendships may not survive.
So, guys?
We're in!
Okay, quick question, are you guys competitive?
I'm chill.
He's a liar.
What? I'm very chill.
He once flipped a board game because he lost.
That was one time.
It was last month.
Ancient history.
Noted. Let’s set up the board.
You're doing awesome.
Stay with me until the end, and you'll
level up your English in no time.
Emma, breakfast is ready!
Pancakes with maple syrup, just the way you like them.
Thanks, mom.
They smell amazing.
Is that cinnamon I smell?
Good nose!
I added a pinch to make it more festive.
December deserves
a little extra warmth, don't you think?
Oh, what does “festive” mean?
Good question, Emma.
It means something that’s cheerful and makes you think of celebrations or holidays.
Like these pancakes, they remind us of Christmas and winter, right?
Wow, so interesting!
And coffee for the grown-ups.
Morning, Emma. Ready for school.
I guess...
But do you think I could skip today
and just start the holiday break early?
Nice try, but school doesn’t work that way.
Speaking of holidays, we should finalize our plans for Christmas.
Emma, any ideas?
Hmm...
Can we do something different this year?
Like maybe volunteer somewhere?
Volunteer?
That's a wonderful idea.
Where did this come from?
Our teacher talked about giving back during the holidays.
She said it makes you feel connected and grateful.
That's true.
We could help at the community center.
They’re organizing a food drive for families in need.
Great idea.
And we could bake some of my famous cookies to donate.
Okay, I'm full and ready to go.
Thanks for breakfast, Mom.
Let's head out.
I’ll drop you off at school before my meeting.
Have a great day, sweetheart.
Look at that house, Mom, Dad!
They've got reindeer on the roof
and lights everywhere.
It's so pretty.
Wow. They really went all out this year.
It looks magical, doesn't it?
Magical and maybe a little over-the-top.
How do you think they get the reindeer up there?
Maybe they used a crane! or Santa helps them.
Santa’s got better things to do than decorate rooftops, Emma.
Dad, what's that smell?
It's so good.
Hmm, I think it’s someone roasting chestnuts.
That’s a classic winter snack.
Chestnuts?
I've never had those.
Are they sweet?
Not really sweet, but they’re warm and nutty.
We can try some at the Christmas market this weekend.
That's great.
The snow feels so soft tonight.
I love it when it snows like this.
It's peaceful, isn't it?
Quiet streets, soft snow...
It feels like the world slows down.
This is my favorite part of winter.
Everything feels calm and cozy.
Emma, your coat is too small now.
We need to get you a new one before it gets even colder.
Can we go to the mall?
I saw this really nice jacket online last week.
It looked warm and cool at the same time!
That's fine.
But before we go, let’s make a shopping list.
What else do we need?
Gloves for everyone.
Oh, and maybe some scarves too.
I also want to pick up a few decorations for the holidays.
And food.
Don’t you always say we need to stock up for winter, Mom?
You're absolutely right, Emma.
We should get things.
Like hot chocolate, marshmallows.
And maybe some soup ingredients.
That's a good idea.
Plus, we can grab snacks for our movie nights.
Winter weekends are perfect
for staying cozy at home.
Shopping isn't tiring, is it?
We'll visit three different stores.
Okay, challenge accepted!
But can I pick the first store?
Sure.
Just make sure it has good sales.
We don’t want to overspend.
Agreed.
Speaking of sales, we should check for holiday discounts.
Many stores offer deals at this time of year.
I’ll keep an eye out for “buy one, get one free” deals.
That's the best, right?
Exactly.
Those are great for winter essentials like gloves.
All right, everyone, bundle up.
It's freezing outside
and the wind is strong today.
Got it.
I’m grabbing my scarf and hat now.
Let's also bring reusable shopping bags.
They're better for the environment.
Good thinking, Mike.
Okay. Everyone ready?
Ready? Let's shop till we drop.
Just kidding.
Let's see who last the longest.
Let’s head out and find the best winter gear for the family.
Mom, can we decorate the Christmas tree tonight?
It looks so empty in the living room without it.
Sure, Emma.
We'll do it after dinner.
I brought down the decorations
from the attic yesterday.
They’re all in the big red box near the couch.
Perfect.
Should we stick to red and gold decorations this year, like always?
Maybe. Or we could try a new theme.
What do you think?
How about blue and silver?
It’s festive and would match the snow outside.
Oh, I like that idea.
It will be like a winter wonderland.
Let’s deck the room with blue and silver then!
Okay, first, let's start with the lights.
Who wants to untangle them?
I'll do it.
It's like a puzzle.
And I'm pretty good at puzzles.
While you do that, I’ll unwrap the ornaments.
Oh, look, here's the one we made together last year.
That's my favorite.
Let’s put it in a special spot on the tree.
Done.
Now let's add the tinsel.
Wait, the lights go on first, then the tinsel.
Oh, right.
Sorry!
No worries, Emma.
Decorating is all about teamwork.