Emilia and Camellia were twins, born minutes apart but with spirits as different as night and day. Emilia, the elder, was strong and full of life, always looking after others. Camellia, quiet and delicate, spent her days painting, capturing the world in colors she could not chase. Though they had no family, they had each other, and that was enough.
Growing up in Starlight Orphanage, they dreamed of a future together, but life had other plans. Camellia had always been frail, her weak heart making it hard for her to keep up. By the time they turned eighteen, her health had worsened, and she had to stay in the hospital. Emilia took on the burden of supporting them both—working long hours at a diner while still helping at the orphanage. No matter how tired she was, she visited Camellia every night, bringing laughter, stories, and small gifts to brighten her sister’s world.
Two years passed, and the doctors gave Emilia devastating news—Camellia’s heart was failing, and only a transplant could save her. The waiting list was long, but Emilia didn’t hesitate when she learned she was a perfect match. She was willing to give her own heart to save her sister’s life.
But Camellia refused. She had seen how hard Emilia worked, how much she sacrificed. She couldn’t let her sister trade her life for hers. They spent their twentieth birthday together, sharing a small cake and reminiscing about their childhood. It was a bittersweet night, filled with love and unspoken fears.
The next morning, Emilia left for the orphanage to collect letters and gifts from the children for Camellia. While she was gone, the hospital called—Camellia’s condition had worsened. Emilia rushed back, desperate to reach her, but in her panic, she didn’t see the speeding car. The impact was severe, and she was rushed to the hospital with no chance of survival.
With her last breath, Emilia made one final request: that her heart be given to Camellia.
When Camellia woke up after the transplant, she felt stronger than ever, but the loss of her sister broke her heart in a different way. A nurse handed her a letter Emilia had written, the words simple yet filled with love:
"Live for both of us."
Tears fell as Camellia held the letter close. Days passed in sorrow, but she knew she had to honor Emilia’s gift. With every brushstroke, she painted the world brighter, carrying her sister’s love in every heartbeat.
Emilia was gone, but her heart lived on. And Camellia vowed to make every moment count—for them both.
The end...
