They know she's struggling... financially, socially, etc., and do try to accommodate her wherever possible.

But Katie knows this isn't forever, and just makes her feel further unequal to her peers. So her goal is to find her own peace while she still has this second chance at life.

Her dad helped get her an interview for her weekday job, but was told outright during that she'll need a second income... hence her weekend job.

Since reconnecting with her friends at one of their weddings, she's felt the need to prove that she's worth being around... even if not actually necessary

Also fun fact: this is a big reason I rarely draw full complete works unless I'm really motivated.

I'm not looking to build a portfolio, but just put to paper whatever ideas I have backlogged or in the moment, show it off and move on.

Art will never be a job for me, and I plan to keep it that way.

Grindset culture has made it unpopular to pursue "pointless" hobbies, like reading recreationally or making art you don't plan to monetize.

Let go of the idea that you need to justify these things that give you some amount of joy because they're not "productive". You'll be happier for it.