Echoes Beyond Sleep

I don't remember when the dreams began.

They crept into my nights like shadows-slowly, quietly. Until I could no longer ignore them.

Most people say dreams are random, nonsense stitched together by a restless mind. But mine are not like that. They feel intentional. Like someone or something is trying to send me a message.

Lately, they've become clearer. More vivid. I remember the faces, the words, the exact rhythm of my breath as I run for my life. And I'm always running. From what? I don't know. All I know is I'm always being hunted. And no matter where I am..

An alley,

A school,

A dark street,

My mom appears. Every single time. She's there.

To save me.

Just like she always does.