My Twin Flames

As I wake up in my cold dark room, the creak of the old bed works as a good alarm. Unlike every other day, today is different. Today brings a break in my monotonous life. Because today, everything changes. I go through my bath routine and my morning coffee, trying not to let myself get excited. If there is one thing I've learned in my life, it's that when life seems to be going well, it doesn't last for long. I look around my one-room apartment. Yes, it's small, but it has been my sanctuary for this past year. Working at the diner has allowed me to afford this apartment and many other luxuries, like food and water. Sure, I am going to miss this home and working at the diner, but one thing I won't miss is being "that girl who survived the fire". I won't miss being "that girl who lost her parents and brother during senior year of high school". I won't miss all the pity stares and empty condolences. It's been a year since that tragic night, but it's something I won't ever forget. I know my parents had big dreams and hopes for me. I know, at 19, working at the diner is not something they would have wanted for me. This is why I applied for that scholarship and this is why I have to leave. Today is the day I start to live again. For my parents. For my brother. For myself. I say goodbye to my apartment and grab my only bag of belongings. Making my way to the bus terminal, I have a new sense of hope. After a 7-hour bus ride, arriving at Howard University felt like a consolation. I made my way to my assigned dorm room. Opening the door, I was greeted by a very colorful, bouncing human. I stared for what felt like ages until she noticed me. "Hi, you must be my roomate. My name is Jade Everett. It's so nice to meet you. Can you believe it? We are finally here. I feel like I have waited for this day forever. No parents to tell me what to do. Finally free! Omg! I am so sorry. I have been going on and on and didn't get your name." Trying to catch up with Jade's excitement, "It's okay" I replied, "My name is Allison Monroe. It's nice to meet you Jade." "I think we're going to be good friends Allie. Can I call you Allie?" I don't remember the last time I was called Allie, but a strange feeling of nostalgia crept over me as I replied, "Sure Jade. I could really use a friend now. So which side of the room is yours?"