Loves' Redemption

Sleep paralysis, they say it's a disorder that wreaks havoc on your mental well-being. In those moments, you're utterly disconnected, a mere spectator in your own body. Conscious of your mind but your body can't move.

I found myself trapped and battling desperately to regain control, to make even the slightest movement.

Alas, I was free and tears welled in my eyes, overwhelmed by the sensation.

Then, amidst this struggle, a call pierced through, "Elizabeth!" My mother's voice. Panic surged within me at the thought of her discovering me in this state. I willed my finger to budge, then another, until eventually, I could command my entire body. Thank Goodness

It dawned on me that my bed was soaked in sweat, and I hurriedly tried covering it up with a pillow.

I wiped away my tears, not wanting to get my mum worried.

My mother stormed into the room, her face etched with irritation and a frown "Why are you still in bed? You're running late and it's your first day at college." She yelled at me

Oh shit

Paint rushed through me as I realized I had forgotten about the whole college thing; yesterday's packing had taken its toll.

Shit.

Hastily, I rose from the bed and dashed to the bathroom to prepare for the day. I quickly turn on the shower to be greeted by cold water.

Fuck it's freezing. I didn't have any time to complain about the water. I quickly took my bath and got dressed.

"Where on earth is my leather jacket", I declared to myself, scattering my wardrobe to look for it. It took a whole ten minutes to find it.

I took my lipgloss and mascara from my bag to do a little bit of light touch on my face.

Perfect.

I ran down the stairs trying to fit my leather boots into my legs when my phone fell from my hands.

Shit. Looks like today was not the day for me.

I picked it up to check if the screen broke but luckily for me it didn't.

Rushing to the kitchen to whip up something quick, I was relieved to discover breakfast waiting for me on the table. "I love my mom so much," I thought, grateful for her thoughtfulness. I kissed her on the cheek while she did the dishes. "Thanks for the food mum". She replied with a warm smile.

I took a good look at my mum from the corners of my eyes. She was by the sink washing the dishes. "What a stunning woman", I said to myself.

My eyes traced from the top of her head to the tip of her feet. My mum, in her mid-forties, looked like a total goddess. She didn't have a single wrinkle or any aging sign or whatever Her fashion sense was on another level!, I could not help but wonder if she had even more fashion sense than I did.

We have similar features- platinum blonde hair with curls at the end with the same height. The only difference was that I was a curvy lady, while my mum had a slim-fit body. With that body of hers, she could make a man weak on his knees. 'I always wondered why she didn't remarry after my dad's death. It has been almost thirteen years now.

Was she not lonely all these years? I whispered to myself. I know I keep her company but now that I'm leaving for college who would? She told me a few months ago how guys at her workplace try to ask her out on dates. But with the men she had seen no one was compared to my dad.

I brought back the topic by asking "Mom, why haven't you remarried?". She was taken aback by the question, I could see the surprise on her forehead lines. "And why do you ask such a question" she gave me a stern look. "I'm sorry mum, " I replied , hurt. After wiping her hands on a towel, she knelt beside me, "You know what? I haven't found anyone quite like your father yet. And guess what? You have your dad's eyes love, she added. I can still vividly remember the day we met, just like it was yesterday. His eyes were the first thing that caught my attention.

"They were so captivating", she added. Once I've found someone you'd be the first person to know okay plum bum, he uttered kissing me on my forehead.

"I can't believe my baby girl is going to college," she remarked with a fond smile. As she rose to embrace me tightly, I felt her display of affection was excessive, but I understood-after all, I was her only daughter.

The time had come to set out. I cast one last glance around the house, then settled into the passenger seat of my mom's car, a book in hand. My eyes scan through the pages. As she turned on the car ignition and started driving.

"Are you excited about college?" my mom inquired. I kept my response concise, "Yes, Mom." She persisted, "Do you think you'll make friends if you keep burying yourself in books?" Was she launching this debate now? "Mom, why do you want to start with this? I thought we were over this now.," I replied flipping the pages. "But books can't replace real connections, they're a means to escape reality," she reasoned with a frown in between her eyebrows. I inhaled deeply.

"I'm not saying I won't make friends, mum, I just love reading" I explained with a faint smile, my hands slightly on her shoulders.

"I know love, but this was how you were in high school. I don't want you to also be like this in college Elizabeth", she resorted trying to make me understand her. I do

"I'll make friends, mum okay. Trust me", I said reassuring her with a smile

"Alright fine, you win this time", she uttered, returning a slight smile showing her little dimple by the right cheek.

Ughh, why didn't I inherit my mum's dimples? I remember my mum telling me when she saw I didn't have dimples as a baby. She tried all manner of things to make it happen but none work.

Staring out of the car window, I absorbed the scenery-a flock of birds, pigeons soaring high in the sky, and what I believed to be a crimson parrot. The gentle breeze brushing my face invoked a sense of tranquility, a feeling of freedom akin to those birds.

Sometimes, I wished I could be one of them, soaring high above, free from sleep paralysis, free from anxiety-free from it all. I watched as the kids in my city ran around cheerfully. The bright smiles on their faces, they had dirt all over their body but they didn't care, they still played and jumped around happily. I would give anything to be a kid again. They had nothing to worry. All they do is cry, play and eat. That's all

I surveyed how the people walked in a hurry like they were on a mission.

Some men were in suits and ties, I guess they were going for a job interview. The ladies wore body-fitted skirts and blouses. The houses in my city were mostly bungalows but some buildings were for high-class people but they were not found where I stayed. It was a peaceful city filled with middle-class people.

My mother made sure she provided me with all the necessities I needed while growing up. I never lacked anything since when I was a baby. She made sure I went to the best schools and wore the best clothes.

Horn

A grumpy man who looked like life had dealt with him real good horned at my mum. "Can you move your car faster, woman?" he shouted. As he opened his mouth to speak a fly came out of it.

When was the last time this man had his bath? He looked hopeless and dirty. Funny how he had a cigarette in his hands. He could afford to buy a cigarette and not to bathe.

What a shame. His teeth were brown and his lips dry. His clothes were crinkled. One would have thought he was nuts. Flies were pestering around his head, I could swear this man had not had a bath in years.

"There is a whole lot of space on the road for everybody, don't yell at me", my mum shouted back at him trying to keep her eyes on the road. I calmed my mum down to avoid her exchanging words with this good-for-nothing drunk man. He wasn't worth her time. People like this are not worth exchanging words with. I won't be surprised when he gets into an accident because of the way he was driving. I wonder how he can afford a car. I'm sure he stole it. She agreed to what I said.

My thoughts drifted back to the previous night. Why did this keep happening to me? I questioned myself, my eyes still in the book but my mind was not in it.

Suddenly, my mom tapped my shoulder, bringing me back to reality. "I called your name three times, Elizabeth, and you didn't respond. Is everything okay?" she inquired with concern. "It's fine, Mom, I'm alright," I reassured her. "Your mind seems unsettled; are you sure you're okay?"

she pressed further. I smiled, attempting to put her at ease, and assured her that everything was fine.

"I can't believe you're leaving me alone in that empty house, Lizzy," my mom exclaimed, her eyes welling up with tears. My mother can be so emotional and extra sometimes

I reached for my handkerchief to gently wipe away her tears. "My physical presence may not be with you, Mom, but I'll always be in your heart and mind," I comforted her.

She smiled through her tears and affectionately called me "My plum bum," a nickname from my childhood. I embraced her tightly.

Since my dad's passing, my mom has been my rock. His siblings had abandoned her, leaving her to care for a five-year-old girl all on her own.

I harbored a deep-seated resentment towards them for causing her so much pain. I remember watching my mom plead with them when we had nothing to eat, and they all turned their backs on her. She had told me my dad died in a car accident when I was just five, leaving me with no memories of him. Sometimes, I wished there were visiting hours in heaven; I would visit him every day.

But I took solace in the belief that he was watching over both my mom and me. "I miss you, Dad," I whispered to the sky.

We arrived at the college. I could see students going in and out. Some were laughing with their friends and some were with their parents hugging them and bidding them goodbye.

It's now or never. I was scared but I didn't let it show. I don't know how my life would be in college. I'm confused and at the same time excited. I can't wait to see what college life have install for me

My mom parked the car in the parking lot behind a huge SUV . Tears shimmered in her eyes as she gazed at me. "My baby girl is all grown up," she said.

I could bet you that this is her fourth time saying this. "Yes mum, I know I'm no longer a child anymore I'm almost 18", I said this within me.

We were walking towards the school gate when my mum accidentally bumped into a man.

Oh boy

She spilled his coffee all over his expensive suit. "Oh my Gosh, I'm so sorry, I didn't see you there" my mum wailed while trying to wipe his coffee stain off his suit. The man replied, "It was a mistake, I understand". But you owe me a new suit and a coffee he said jokingly.

My mom's eyes nearly popped out of her eye socket when he said " I was just joking, don't be frightened", the man remarked while laughing. "Oh where are my manners? " He stretched his hands forward, saying,

"My name is Eric, and you are ", My mum replied, "Sophia". And I guess this girl standing right next to you is your daughter". I nodded my head still admiring the way he looked with my eyes. "Oh and what lovely eyes you got", he admired the way my eyes were.

I couldn't help but notice that he was rocking a fancy Rolex watch and carrying a sleek briefcase. Talk about living the high life!

"I bet he has up to a million dollars in that briefcase", I whispered under my breath. "Do you mind if I get your number?" he asked my mum. "I'd love to go on a coffee date, but bills on you," he said with a wink.

Wait, are they flirting with each other while I'm here? Ewww.

That's quite a bold request! My mom laughed and said, "Sure, here's my contact. We can go on a coffee date, but you'd foot the bill," she replied with a playful wink. They exchanged contact and signed everything with a hug.

Then he zoomed off in his fancy car. I'm thrilled that heaven decided to shine its light on her today! She deserves it. I muttered to myself.

As we headed, I gave my mum a cheeky smile "Well Well Well looks like someone's got a hot date! I playfully winked at her.

I observed my peers interacting with each other. Some were skating, skipping, and engaged in conversations, and laughter. My eyes drifted upwards to the entrance gate, where the words "Welcome to South Dakota College" stood proudly. A smile crossed my face as I uttered, "I've finally made it into my dream school."

Approaching my dorm, I encountered a group of young men engaged in conversation by the lockers. I tried not to stare, but curiosity got the better of me. They all sported a casual look, with some wearing grey joggers and others in cargo pants. Strangely enough, I've always had a soft spot for guys in grey sweatpants.

Two of them had dark, defined curls, while the others had distinct characteristics. One had pale yellow, ponytailed hair, giving off a Scottish vibe. Another had auburn hair, which hinted at possible Scottish heritage as well. The last one sported ombré hair, a captivating blend of magenta and midnight blue, which fascinated me the most.

They were all tall, easily towering over 6 feet, and I surmised they were part of the basketball club. As I walked away, a hint of his cologne lingered on another one of my quirks-a fondness for the scent of masculinity.

Heading toward my dorm with my mom. I saw some girls giggling with one another about something

Girls and gossiping. Smh

Then there were some who stood close to the door eyeing me from head to toe. When I passed they all hissed at me.

Really? What's wrong with my gender? I didn't even say anything to them and they hissed at me. They should just thank their stars that I was with my mum. So help me God, I would have given them a piece of my fist in their pretty faces.

Finally we got to my dorm room. After walking like two miles we finally got here.

Don't take me seriously. I was overreacting.

We noticed the door was already open. I guess my roommate is already in. We encounter a striking young woman with an hourglass figure facing behind us. Her bright, sun-kissed hair cascaded over her shoulders, complementing her radiant fair skin.

She wore vibrant clothing that brought out her appearance perfectly. "Hello, you must be Elizabeth, my roommate. I'm Nora," she greeted me, stretching out her hand for a hug.

Mhhm, her hair smells sweet. Her voice was soothing, almost like a lullaby, and her cherry-scented perfume matched her charm.

My mom leaned in and whispered, "I think I like this girl," to which I playfully rolled my eyes.

It was time for my mom to head home, and she enveloped me in a tight hug that momentarily stole my breath, followed by a tender kiss on the forehead. "Be a good girl", she said, drawing me into another hug.

This woman would kill me with hugs.

"Sure mom", I implied while rolling my eyes.

She left. I watched her as she walked her way out of the room. Something told me to run after her and give her one last hug. But I didn't.

I've been with my mum almost all my life since I was a baby. Now staying alone in a place where I would adapt to is going to be hard. This is a new phase in my life and I have to live with it.

"I know you are going to miss her", Nora tapped my shoulders, bringing me out of my thoughts. "I'm here, don't worry you won't get bored.Now enough of all this sad talk let's start arranging our things", she dragged my hands back into the room. I giggled. College is going to be fun with Nora.

After we finished arranging our belongings on our respective sides of the room.

"Ughh" I made a sound hitting my back on the bed. Arranging is so tiring. I was still breathing hard trying to catch my breath. I glanced around the room and smiled at our work. The room looks nice.

Her side of the room embraced a soft pink shade with a girly design complimented by soft lights and some green plastic leaves at the top of her mirror. A frame picture captured a precious moment between her brother and her hung on the wall.

Her room was giving aesthetic vibes.

Mine was just plain not too much. I got a glow in the dark lights on the wall. My wall had two colors: blue and a touch of green. And my fluffy teddy bears on my bed.

"Let's watch a movie", Nora suggested with both her hands on her chin. She was resting her weight on both hands. I took charge of selecting a movie for our first movie night and chose "The Walking Dead."

Nora then proposed, "What about we get to know each other a little before we start the movie?" Well, I don't like talking about myself that much but I gave it a try so as not to hurt her feelings.

She began by sharing her family's journey, how they had lived with her grandparents after their parents' passing, and how they had discovered a substantial inheritance.

As she spoke, I opened up about my family background. Suddenly, an inquisitive Nora asked, "Have you ever had a boyfriend?" The question caught me off guard. Should I lie? Should I act nonchalant and say yes? Would she judge me if I confessed I hadn't? These thoughts raced through my mind before I hesitantly replied, "No, I've never had a boyfriend," nervously fidgeting with my fingers, a habit of mine when I'm anxious.

"Let me guess, you've never had your first kiss either," she ventured with a speculative look on her face. I reluctantly confirmed it. Nora sensed my discomfort and reassured me, "It's not a big deal, Lizzy. Don't be ashamed to tell me. I won't judge you." She then shared her romantic history, disclosing that she had three exes before arriving at South Dakota College and currently had a boyfriend here. I exclaimed in surprise, "Really? That's quite a story." She chuckled and said,

"You're a really funny person, Lizzy." I noted the use of my nickname instead of Elizabeth and told her, "I love it!"

"Let's start the movie, and I'll grab some chips and popcorn," Nora suggested, jumping off the bed to go get the popcorn while I turned on the movie.

The film was packed with twists and suspense, and we enjoyed every moment.

In the middle of the night, I awoke to find Nora amid a distressing dream. She was screaming so loudly that it likely disturbed our neighbors. "Nora, wake up! It's not real; I'm here," I reassured her. She didn't respond at first, but after tapping her gently, she jolted awake, clinging to me with her heart racing as if she had been pursued by something terrifying. "It's okay, Nora, I'm here. It was just a dream," I comforted her. Once she calmed down, she recounted the dream of being chased by zombies and human-sized rats.

I couldn't help it. I burst into laughter, and Nora, confused at first, soon joined in. Wiping away the tears from the corners of my eyes, I explained, "It's because of the movie, Nora. I guess it gave you that bad dream."

We both laughed heartily. Nora apologized for waking me, and we returned to our separate beds.

"I'm really glad I have you as a roommate, Lizzy, not some rude person," Nora declared. I jokingly responded, "Well, I can be a bit of a 'bitch' if you want me to."

I jolted awake in the dead of night, suffocating, gasping for air after a nightmarish ordeal. I clutched my chest, my heart pounding, and my brow drenched in sweat. It felt too real, and with beads of perspiration on my forehead, I whispered with relief.

"Oh Christ, it was just a nightmare." I rose and opened the window, greeted by the warm morning sun, its gentle rays soothing my frayed nerves. Melodic bird songs filled the air, providing a serene backdrop to my recovery.

Glancing at the bedside table, I realized it was still early. Nora, my roommate, was still sound asleep, her snoring a testament to her peaceful slumber. "What a sleepyhead," I remarked aloud, checking the time to find I had an hour left to prepare for my lecture.

While arranging a few things with one eye barely open, I spotted a crimson stain on my bed and exclaimed, "Of all days, why today?"

Dragging myself out of my bed towards my drawer to fetch some clothes and pad, frustration washed over me when I discovered I had forgotten to pack the pads.

"Oh fuck" I hit my head of my forehead.

Annoyed, I muttered, "Isn't today my lucky day?" Hoping Nora had some packed, I didn't care about her snoring that could rival a banshee's.

"Nora, do you have any pads?" I asked, shaking her countless times. A groggy Nora opened her eyes halfway with a yawn. "Check my tote bag; you'll find some there," I pointed at her tote bag. Thank goodness.

With a sigh of relief, I replied, "Thanks,"

I took the pads and headed into the bathroom. Opting to wear them in private, I hummed a song that had been stuck in my head for a while.

- "I love it when you call me senorita! I wish it wasn't so damn hard to leave ya".

Turning on the shower, I was greeted by a stream of steaming hot water. "This is exactly what I need right now," I whispered to myself, closing my eyes and relishing the soothing sensation from my scalp down to my back.

Using my coconut-scented baby soap bar, I gently scrubbed my body, enjoying its soft and smooth touch on my delicate skin. Opening the strawberry-scented shampoo, I poured it onto my hair, washing it thoroughly. With the ritual complete, I slipped on my squeaky slippers and headed out.

Unbeknownst to me, an uninvited guest had entered. "What the hell!" I screamed in shock and immediately adjusted my towel, my heart pounding.

I yelled so loudly that Nora jumped out of bed with a panicked expression. Then, she saw the stranger and shook her head with a slight smile.

Why was she smiling? When there is a random dude sitting on my fucking bed.

He lounged comfortably on my bed, a smirk on his face. "This bed is super soft; I could sleep here for days," he declared with a devilish grin. "I guess you love it when I call you Senorita, right? he added. Infuriated, I grabbed him by the collar

of his shirt and demanded, "Who the hell are you, and what are you doing here? "You're a feisty little one," Damian smirked. "Did you just call me little? This dude got some guts.

You're not only a pervert but also rude," I retorted with a frown on my face. It took everything in me not to punch this dickface on the groin.

"Lizzy, calm down; you're making a fuss about this situation," Nora responded while trying to sit up on her bed while scrubbing her eyes. "I shouldn't make a fuss about it, huh?"

Nora, my supposed ally, just asked, and I told her, This prick here is a

pervert; he almost saw me naked", I yelled out still holding him on the collar.

"Lizzy, release Damian's collar; let me explain," she urged, signaling for me to step back. Despite initial hesitation, I complied to prevent a potential confrontation.

"Thanks, Lizzy. Meet Damian, a friend from back home and my cousin's pal. Damian, this is Lizzy, my roommate," she clarified, aiming to diffuse tension. Damian chimed in, "For a shortie, she's quite the character," accompanied by a sly wink. Oh, just wait until I get the chance to put you in your place.

"Now, how about a handshake to keep things civil, not turning into a Tom and Jerry situation?" Nora suggested while fixing her bed. "I'll pass," I retorted, brushing my shoulder against his as I walked by. "Ouch, that hurts," I winced, holding my shoulders. Damian chuckled, "You were the one who brushed past me; now you're the one crying."

I shot him a glare. "Hahaha, very funny," I mocked, unamused.

As I headed to the bathroom, Damian couldn't resist one last comment, "Oh, Elizabeth, you have a nice butt." I glared at him, repulsed, and shot back, "You're a dumbass; what a jerk." Then, to myself, I added, "But a cute one he is, my thoughts went back to how Damian looked _ with a defined muscular physique, V-cut abs that were so obvious, wore a black shirt

which had a sentence boldly written

"I am fearless", I rolled my eyes, 6ft tall he stood and a devilish smile that could make any girl fold, coupled with his well-outlined jawline, also

possessing cloud blue colored eyes which were captivating. I'd give him good numbers for looks but for character he sucks." However his looks didn't excuse his awful personality.

My phone interrupted my thoughts, ringing loudly. "Elizabeth, your mom is on the line!" Nora yelled.

I snapped out of my daze and answered, "I'm coming!" I picked up the phone, without greeting at first but then her, and quickly apologized for my earlier rudeness. She spilled the tea about her date with Mr. Eric.

Fingers crossed things work out for them. If he dares to hurt her, he'd have to deal with me. I muttered to myself. With my massive biceps, I'd give him a neck squeeze he won't forget. I silently giggled at my silly joke

"So you're a mama's girl," that annoying voice chimed in again. I retorted, "Do you want to die, Damian?" playfully. Damian scoffed, "And who's going to kill me? You, a 5.2" girl? I'm so scared." I'd known him for only a few minutes, and I already didn't like him. He's a pain in the ass. I knew he was going to be around for a long time.

I pray he doesn't get on my nerves these days 'cause if he does he'd have a broken bone. I might be short, but I'm strong! I mumbled to myself

Hastily, I prepared my breakfast. I love eating cereal for breakfast, and if cereals could kill, I'd have been a goner by now.

I brushed out my hair, letting my curls fall naturally, and added a subtle touch of makeup. Putting on my sandals, I struggled a bit with the buckles, but eventually got them secured.

I adjusted my dress and took a deep breath, feeling anxious. I inhaled and exhaled, attempting to gather my composure when someone whispered in my ear, "Aw, the little one is scared because it's her first day of college.

If only it weren't a crime, I would've stabbed Damian then and there. "Are you always this annoying dumbass?" I asked with a withering look

He didn't keep quiet, though, and left with his hands raised. "See you around, little girl, and oh, you smell nice," he added with a wink. Nora emerged from the bathroom, asking,

"Where's Damian?" she muttered, "Your Awesome' friend just left a while ago." I deduced, "He must have teased you before leaving, right?" "I hate him, Nora," I declared. "Don't worry; you'll get used to him," she replied. Oh, how I wished she were wrong.

Curiosity got the best of me, and I asked, "How did you get to know Damian?" while giving my hair a final touch in the mirror.

"Oh, he's my cousin's friend. We used to play together a lot when we were kids, but then he stopped coming over. I think he might have traveled. I had a little crush on him back then, but he left, and the feeling faded. Now, look at this – fate brought him back," she said, quickly diving into her cereal.

"Isn't that nice," I remarked.

I tried to prepare myself with a bit of courage. "You can do this, Elizabeth! You can do this," I whispered to myself. I opened the door and stepped outside. "Here goes nothing," I thought as I

impatiently waited for Nora, urging her, "Hurry up; we're going to be late!"