Chapter 51

Chance

Ten years ago

Dead eyes stare me down in the mirror as I wash my face in the sink for the second time today. My face is sunken in from the weight I have lost and the scraggly beard I have grown in the last few weeks is getting too long.

Rattling pounds the bathroom door and seconds later Laurie opens the door, letting it bang against the wall with a loud crash. I close my eyes, remembering the very first time I laid eyes on her.

I was a pathetic sophomore in college, whose whole life revolved around graduating with honors. My parents could barely afford to send me, but with loans, scholarships and hard word, I had my foot in the door. Laurie was a new freshman, whom was in the same boat, but instead of looking at life half empty, full of bills, debt and responsibility, she showed me what it would be like overflowing with joy and happiness. Showed me that we had the chance to overcome everything that was put in front of us. Her deep red hair and dark green eyes called to me