2 Sara

When Celia opened her eyes, she felt like she had only just closed her eyes a moment ago, and at the same time as if she was waking from a really long sleep. Sara was next to her, smiling gently.

'It's confusing,' Celia said.

Sara nodded with understanding. 'I know,' she said. 'It can get like that. I've been through it too. Takes some time getting used to. So, you know, you can ask, and I would be able to answer, explain a little.'

Celia nodded. But remained silent. In the end, Sara sighed sadly, and began answering the unvoiced question.

'We're in spirit form. Inside mother. Somewhere between our bodies. Time is vague in here. It's stationary and flowing at the same time. So, yeah, it is a little confusing and disorienting even, until you get used to it.

'Two questions,' Celia replied, immediately after. 'How do you know so much?'

Sara shrugged and answered honestly. 'Special circumstances. I awakened early, earlier than I should.'

Celia didn't push further. Sara waited, with an unwavering smile on her face, for the next question.

'Our bodies?' Celia asked.

'Oh yes,' Sara answered excitedly. 'Let me show you.'

Sara extended her hand, and waited for Celia to take it. And then, the vast darkness shrunk. The two girls were like little specks staring at a pair of tiny bodies that hadn't yet completely taken shape. It was a sight as mesmerising as it was terrifying. Celia choked from being overwhelmed. And Sara was pleased with the reaction.

'Beautiful, isn't it,' Sara asked in a deeply coloured voice. 'We'll be so pretty. I can already see everyone staring at us starry eyed. So, I'm sure you understand. And also don't. So, let me explain, as best as I can. We were twins. I was excited and happy. Then, she was gone. And I was torn. I couldn't be alone. I wasn't strong enough. That's when I found you. We can be together. We'll be so great.'

Sara was glowing. Celia had to squint, but that didn't keep her from looking at Sara. She knew there was a lot more, but Celia couldn't bring herself to care too much. She felt compelled to be as excited and as happy as Sara, by more than just Sara. Whatever, it didn't really matter, did it? Celia smiled, reached for Sara's clenched hands, and was beaming as their hands connected. In that moment, it was as if the two had forged an iron-like connection. They had truly become sisters.