Illusions Can Become Reality by Justin Vargas
As I wake up to the smell of my mom’s breakfast—specifically eggs and bacon—the thought of half my family passing away hasn’t left my mind. It was mind-boggling to me, knowing that death is a part of life. My chest felt cold and empty, knowing I’m slowly but surely noticing everyone leaving me in Earth life and going to the after life. I finally get up and refresh myself by showering and brushing my teeth. I hurry up and sit at the table and I seemingly analyze my mom. In the middle of me chewing on my pancakes I question her. “Mommy why is everyone dying?” She responded instantly, “Eat your food so you don’t show up late to school.” Time flies and I’m in school and thinking of my mom getting so hesitant about the question I asked hasn’t left my head. I try to fight it out, but nothing is working. Sooner or later it’s time for me to go home. I see my mom with a bright smile on her face excited to see me. I run to her as fast as I can and give her a big hug. “Your cousin Riley is coming over today. Are you excited?” she asked. I immediately jump up and get hyper. Me and Riley haven’t seen each other in years. We pull into the driveway and I see Riley there waiting for me at the door. We both make eye contact and know what time it is. I jump out of the car, grab Riley and take him inside with me. As we’re in the middle of making TikToks, Riley stops me and says, “Give me a sec. I have to use the bathroom.” “Okay,” I say. I sit there rewatching the videos we made and hear a dark, loud, painful scream from downstairs. “AHHHHHHHH!” I take flight downstairs so fast you would’ve thought I was a track star. I look at my mom and she is covered with dark red coloring. She stares at me with a blank face. “Mom, what did you do?” “Ugh, the Kool Aid spilled all over me. Now I have to wash clothes again. Oh and go check on Riley.” 342
