That night, we celebrated her birthday.
A small cake. Three people. Soft laughter through tears.
And later, as the night grew still, she slipped away peacefully.
I lost my mother that night.
But I found something I didn’t even know I still had.
A sister.
Lily stood beside me at the window, her small hand finding mine.
“I was so scared you wouldn’t come,” she said.
I squeezed her hand gently.
“I almost didn’t,” I admitted.
Then I looked down at her—and this time, I didn’t hesitate.
“But I’m here now.”
She leaned into me, and I wrapped my arm around her shoulders.
And in that quiet moment, I made a promise—not just to her, but to myself.
I had already lost too much.
I wasn’t going to lose her too.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered. Any resemblance is coincidental. The author and publisher disclaim accuracy, liability, and responsibility for interpretations or reliance. All images are for illustration purposes only.
