Our Last Duet

I sit on the cold doorstep of my house, watching the street swarm as mothers hurry their children towards the school gates. As I watch them, a heavy weight anchors my shoulders and my stomach tightens, like I’m suffocating in a cloud of murky smoke.

Closing my eyes, the past flashes through my mind and my eyesight blurs.

I’m doing my homework as my mum’s keys rattle in the lock. I could finally show them my fantastic test results! Fear rises in my stomach as I look past them at the empty space near the door, there was no sound of Ellie- my little sister. I look up to see my mum crying and dad’s face bright red with anger. The house suddenly fills with unbearable loneliness, making my heart feel like it’s exploded.

“Tell me where Ellie is!” I whisper, then I scream in disbelief. “Ellie can’t be dead!” I yell, so loud the world heard my sadness.

Memories spin like a carousel, leaving a taste at the back of my throat. Why did she leave me? How will I live without her?  I question myself a billion times. 

I dive out the door, wiping away my desperate tears. I feel like my whole life has disappeared with my sister.

As I reach a corner, I remember promising one day we would sing together for a charity. My sister’s encouraging face suddenly appears in my mind. 

 ‘Do this sis, I believe in you.’

Immediately, I ran back home telling my parents. Their massive grin was all the permission I needed. Not before long, I was already halfway out the door, eager to start my plan.

A week later, I pick up my cold microphone and sing, unsure at first, but slowly more confident. It was the song I always sang to my sister. My eyes start watering-if only she could hear me singing…

As I open my eyes, reality comes flashing back to me. People are cheering, hungry for more. I catch a glimpse of my parents beaming at me in the crowd. I realise I’ve impressed them. “Thank you!” I say, feeling like I’ve made them proud.

The applause faded, but the warmth stayed. I looked down at the pile of coins and notes scattered at my feet. This wasn't just money, it was the joy and happiness of our past, the laughter we shared every single day.

For the first time since, the weight in my chest doesn't feel empty, it feels positive. I knew then, I wouldn't let my soul stay behind.

 As me and my parents pack up, I squeeze their hands tightly. I wasn't just singing for my sister-I was singing for my family. Every penny would be for the charity Ellie and I had always dreamed of, and every step I took would be for both of us.

Turning the corner, a soft breeze brushes my cheek, almost like a whisper. 

'I love you, sis.' 

“I will always love you,” I whisper softly.