Fallen

The truth

I ventured under the bed, my curiosity leading me to discover a mysterious box tucked away in the shadows. With anticipation, I picked it up and carefully opened it, revealing a note addressed to me: "To Hitori From Rekka Uno. Don't open until eighteen." Intrigued, I couldn't resist the temptation and unfolded the message inside.

"Hello Hitori, and happy eighteenth birthday! I wish I could be there to witness your growth, but now it is time to reveal the truth. Enclosed in this box is my diary, which holds all the secrets and experiences of my life since the age of seven. It bears the mark of 'Property of Rekka Uno.' As you open to the first page, you will be transported back to my past, to the beginnings of a story intertwined with yours."

As I turned the pages of the diary, I found myself immersed in Rekka's heartfelt words. She shared memories of our childhood, recounting how we met as young children and formed an unbreakable bond. Rekka's protective nature towards me, her determination to shield me from harm, became evident. I read about the moments we spent together, the joyous occasions and the times she comforted me during my nightmares.

However, as the years passed, Rekka began to grapple with unfamiliar emotions. She confessed her confusion and the conflicting feelings that arose within her as she realized her love for me. Rekka's parents admonished her, insisting that such emotions were inappropriate between siblings. Despite the societal disapproval, our connection remained strong, and she even earned the nickname "big Bro" from me.

As we entered middle school, circumstances changed. We found ourselves in different classes, and I witnessed Rekka making new friends. While I was happy for her, a tinge of jealousy lingered within me. Our time together became less frequent, and I yearned for her companionship. A devastating blow came when Rekka revealed her interest in another person, Kako Miyu. My heart shattered, and Rekka encouraged me to move on without her.

Tragedy struck on the day my family informed me that we would be leaving Rekka behind. Overwhelmed by despair, I contemplated ending my life. However, in a twist of fate, Rekka returned home just in time to save me from the engulfing flames. In that moment, she confessed her love, kissed me, and pulled me away from the danger. I discovered that Rekka had been the older one, not me, and that I was adopted into the Uno family. Her true name was Renna Uno, and mine was Sasaki Katashi.

Renna pleaded with me to continue living, to find love, and forgive our parents for their past and future actions. She assured me that her sacrifice would not be in vain, and her love would always be with me, residing within my heart. Overwhelmed with emotion, I wept as I absorbed the weight of her words. My perception of my sister had forever changed, and I felt a profound loss.

In the midst of my anguish, a photograph of Renna and me as children slipped from the diary. Her radiant smile in that picture provided solace and reminded me to move forward. Determined to honor her memory, I decided to shed my former identity as Hitori and embrace the name Sasaki. I purchased black hair dye, symbolizing this transformation, and prepared for the new chapter of my life.

Months later, I stood on the brink of graduation, having secured a scholarship to study in the United States. As I packed my belongings, preparing to leave my childhood home, I reflected on the incredible journey that had led me here. Renna's diary had served as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery, and I carried her love and guidance with me as I embarked on this new adventure.