Waking up from a bad dream, only to realize my reality still feels like one. Dad is -
"Niyah, get up for school!" Mom's shout from the kitchen cuts through my thoughts.
I don't know why she insists on waking me every morning. That's what my two alarms are for: my phone and my radio clock.
I let out a heavy sigh, but the aroma wafting from the kitchen softens my mood. The smell of eggs, sizzling bacon, and mouth watering cinnamon pancakes fills the air. Enticed, I drag myself out of bed and head downstairs. Who doesn't love food?
My five siblings are already halfway through their plates. They're perfect morning people - me not so much. They'll be moving out soon, having agreed to stay on campus for the rest of their college years. Jacob, my oldest brother, keeps telling me I should try staying in a dorm too. "It'll be a great experience," he says. "You'll feel like an adult." Maybe he's right, I think. It might not be a bad idea.
As I step outside, my mind wanders, imagining what life on campus might be like. I'm so deep in thought I nearly bump into Silk. "Hey, Niyah!" she says, her voice bright and cheerful. Startled, I stammer, "Oh! Hey, Silk." She tilts her head, studying me. "You looked like you were in another world." "I was… until you scared me," I replied, giving her a half-smile. "What's on your mind?" "My brother thinks I should consider staying on campus," I explained. "That's a wonderful idea!" she exclaims, her excitement lighting up her face. "You think so?" I ask, hesitating. Before she can answer, the piercing school bell interrupts us. "We can talk about it after school," I say.
Silk is my best friend. We've known each other since we were eight. Sometimes it feels like fate brought us together. We share the same birthday, favorite ice cream flavor, favorite book, favorite color - everything. It's almost surreal having such a loyal friend for so long.
In three months, on June fourteenth, we'll be graduating. I can't help but hope Silk and I end up at the same college. It would make adjusting to campus life so much easier.
Without her, the idea feels overwhelming.
Later, on the walk home, Silk picks up where we left off. "What's wrong with staying on campus?" she asks. "I don't know," I admit. "The thought of leaving mom behind really gets to me. With Dad gone… I don't think she could handle it." Silk's voice softens. "I think your mom will be okay, Niyah. She's strong, even without your dad. And remember, it's not just you. She has your other siblings to check in on her." She glances at me, her eyes warm. Gently patting my shoulder, she adds, "Besides, I've been thinking… maybe we could go to the same college."
My heart leaps, and a wide grin spreads across my face. "That would be amazing, Silk!" I squeal, barely able to contain my excitement.