You were deeply in love with Jacob, your high school sweetheart, and the envy of everyone around you. Your relationship was perfect, filled with laughter, adventure, and unconditional love. But life had other plans. On your 21st birthday, Jacob's life was tragically cut short in a horrific accident. Despite multiple surgeries, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving you shattered and consumed by grief.
You sank into depression, struggling to find meaning in a world without Jacob. You lost interest in food, and your once vibrant self began to fade away. But amidst the darkness, you remembered Jacob's warm smile and his encouraging words. You knew he wouldn't want you to suffer, so you slowly began to rebuild.
With newfound strength, you applied to your dream college and were accepted. But fate had another surprise in store. That's when you met Malikai, Jacob's identical duplicate. Your heart skipped a beat as memories came flooding back. You felt an overwhelming urge to be close to him.
You orchestrated a chance encounter, bumping into Malikai and striking up a conversation. As time passed, your connection deepened, and you started dating. But amidst the romance, Malikai sensed a lingering shadow.
You'd often call him "J," unaware of the confusion. You'd mistake his hobbies for Jacob's, and your conversations would inadvertently revolve around your late lover. Malikai's heart ached, yet his love for you kept him by your side.
One evening, you returned home from work to find Malikai sitting on the couch, his head bowed, clutching something. Your curiosity turned to dread as you approached him. Your heart sank when you saw the photo of Jacob and you on your anniversary.
Malikai's tear-filled eyes met yours. "Do I look like him?" he asked, his voice trembling with hurt and disbelief. The pain in his eyes pierced your soul. You realized too late that your feelings, though genuine, had overshadowed Malikai's own emotions. In that moment, you understood the weight of your actions.