The dormitory walls still carry that sharp stench of lime.
– How many mornings like this? Same walls. Same breath. Which me is waking up today?
I got out of bed and walked to the bathroom. I glanced at the mirror above the sink without meaning to. There she was again,standing there on her own.
–What? You again?
My reflection tilted her head. She smiled. But I didn't.
She began to speak softly.
"Vera, who are you really?"
She looked straight into my eyes.
– Shut up. I don't want to hear you today.
As I walked down to class, the teacher asked me, "Are you alright?" I forced a smile.
– I don't know... Was that question for her? For me? Who's supposed to answer?
She reminded me to take my meds. Did I take them?
– Maybe she did. Maybe I did. Maybe neither of us did.
At night, the moonlight carved a creature on the ceiling. A breath echoed from the empty bottom bunk. I froze.
Is this real? Or am I dreaming while awake?
My heart pounded like a drum. I hid under the blanket.
If it can't see me, I can't see it. Right?