"Run, my daughter!"

"Mama… let’s go together!"

I begged her to come with me. She caressed my cheek with her fingers, wiped away my tears, and left her bloody fingerprints on my face...blood mingling with tears. She wrapped her precious necklace around my neck, pressed her forehead to mine, and whispered words that dripped like honey into my little heart.

Then, she told me to leave alone.

Just as I had pleaded with her moments ago, she now pleaded with me. And before the weakness in her voice, my shield broke. I surrendered to her wish...not with consent, but with resignation. I wandered off, aimless and alone. A crimson curtain fell behind me, and she faded into the folds of my memory.

Farewell, my beloved. Our reunion has become a distant mirage.

That day, my steps led me to my uncle’s house—

the man who raised me under his family’s care,

and showered me with affection to make up for the absence of my parents.

My mother was gone forever,

and my father and brother vanished during a journey from which they never returned.

My uncle never stopped chasing after their trail,

yet always came back empty-handed.

Eight years have passed.

This year, I started high school alongside Niyar—my uncle’s second child, and my mirror image in appearance.

As for Reena, the eldest daughter, she’s nearly twenty now, a year and a half older than my brother Iyass.

Just like me and Niyar, they too resemble each other.

And how could we not match, when our fathers were twins?

Niyar and I inherited the features of my mother and uncle,

while Reena and Iyass are the very copies of my father and aunt.

Today seemed like just another ordinary day in my school life—or so I thought. On our way back from school, Niyar and I could immediately sense the tension in the air. Cars were rushing back and forth, and chaos engulfed the surroundings. Had the world turned upside down? Just hours earlier, everything had been peaceful and quiet. We quickened our steps and entered the house, only to find it in complete disarray. Bags here, clothes there, my uncle and aunt walking back and forth carrying all sorts of things. Niyar and I stood frozen in confusion. What on earth had happened?

“What are you doing right now?” Niyar asked. My aunt, only just realizing we were there, responded hurriedly, pointing at a pile of bags by the door: “Take some of these and pack what you need.” “Pack what, and why, Mom?” he asked. Reena came down the stairs, dragging a large suitcase behind her, and said, “Not the time for questions, little brother. Just do what Mom said. But if it’ll satisfy your curiosity, it’s an evacuation. You can probably guess what that means.”

Niyar wasn’t satisfied with that answer. While he was speaking, a tall figure appeared above us and leaned on his shoulder. “The city is about to become a battlefield,” said Bayram. “Every family with children or elderly must leave—and that includes you two, my dears.” “But we’re not kids anymore!” Niyar objected instantly, “Why can’t we stay? We’re young and capable, Bayram.” “Dear Niyar,” Bayram replied with calm resolve, “your staying would only hold us back. It’s not an option.”

Ignoring their conversation, I asked, “So, cousin… are you staying here, or is leaving with us still a choice?” He laughed softly, “You know I have a name, girl,” he said. “And yes, I’m staying—this is my duty. You and your brother must go now. Time is not something we can afford to waste.”

I turned away and headed upstairs to my room. I packed my suitcase, then stood silently at the door, taking in every corner and detail. My bed, where I used to sleep… my desk, where I studied… the cozy spot where I often sat chatting with Niyar and Reena. I wanted to memorize every inch of it. Is leaving really the right thing to do? The thought crossed my mind. I didn’t want to leave again… not again. I just wanted to stay in my home. But alas, thoughts are powerless now—this choice isn’t mine to make. I pulled myself together and dragged my suitcase downstairs. Bayram took it from me and carried it to the car. Niyar was sitting on the couch, clearly annoyed.

A few more minutes passed. Then, it was time.

We stepped outside. I paused to look at Bayram one last time. He stood leaning on the doorframe, smiling with that foolish grin of his. He murmured gently, “I already miss you.” He approached and looked at each of us carefully, as if trying to memorize our faces. “You’re really not coming? Not under any circumstance?” Niyar asked, though he already knew the answer.

“I’m the squad leader, kids. Leaving isn’t an option. Who will defend our home if not us?”

We weren’t ignorant of the reasons behind his choice. I got into the car, my thoughts spinning endlessly. Niyar sat beside me. “Take care of yourself,” Bayram called out—those were the final words I heard from him.

We left… but our hearts remained behind.

To be continued… Between hope and pain.