As an identical twin, the notion of our shared existence had always held a mesmerising allure for me. The idea that Cara and I were once one entity, seamlessly halved into two distinct individuals, felt like a wondrous feat of nature. The unspoken understanding and unimaginable bond we shared was enviable. Our closeness was exclusive, sealed by our ability to communicate thoughts and feelings without outside input. Cara, my mirror image stood by my side, we were loyal equals, our shared features echoed in every gesture, yet as time passed things began to change. Fractures. Beneath the surface, lay the subtle distinctions that set us apart. Despite our identical physical appearance contrasting personalities were beginning to emerge. Being identified as one and being likened to an individual who held conflicting views was no longer attractive; in fact, it was something I found deeply repulsive.

Little things at first. Cara and I became locked in a perpetual battle. What began as typical squabbles between sisters escalated into full-blown warfare. Lies. Accusations. Distance. And finally, silence.

Stolen story; please report.

Over a decade had drifted by since the rupture in our bond, since Cara, my mirror image, vanished taking her two young sons and departing from the family fold.

Losing them was profoundly distressing. Their sudden disappearance left a void filled with shock, confusion, anxiety and sorrow. I was lost without closure or understanding. Anger surfaced. Why had Cara made such a drastic decision? How would she explain my absence to the nephews I adored? My sister knew how to twist words, how to manipulate people and situations. For years I clung to the possibility of their return, then finally I grappled with the painful acceptance they might be gone forever. I found solace in the tranquillity of my own existence, never forgetting the echoes of Cara's lies and manipulations, her venomous words. I preserved evidence of her deceit, tangible proof of the truth concealed behind her facade of innocence. It would serve as a reminder to be cautious moving forward. I would never be so gullible to be fooled by Cara ever again.

Yet why after all this time was Cara in the forefront of my thoughts? Why did I sense her distress from afar? A nagging worry. A primal instinct whispered something was amiss.