The beads of cold sweat were clinging to my skin even though I felt like I had just climbed from a pool of lava. Which, according to my nightmare, I had. I stumbled sleepily into the bathroom that connected my bedroom with my sister’s and turned on the light.

I ran the cool water and took a few calming breaths. I splashed the water on my face and looked into the mirror. I almost screamed when I realized what was different. Jeni was standing right behind me, slowly putting her arms around my waist and dragging me into a hug. I had forgotten that she had come over when my family decided to leave me while they went on their vacation.

“McKayla,” Jeni whispered into my left ear, “do you want to get some ice cream?”

I turned and when my brown eyes met hers I couldn’t help but laugh. It was nearly 5:00 a.m. we both had work in about two hours and she wanted ice cream!?

“Yes, I’d like that,” I replied giving her a quick kiss on the forehead. Even after my terrifying night I felt safe in her arms.