I Killed Someone - By Rizza Mae Sionillo

Written By: Rizza Mae Sionillo

Category: Short story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

We are pleased to feature Rizza Mae Sionillo's gripping short story "I Killed Someone" as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This profound piece explores themes of identity and self-reflection, delving into the complex emotions of regret and acceptance. Rizza Mae guides readers through a haunting narrative that challenges perceptions of self and the sacrifices made for personal and societal acceptance.

About the Work

"I Killed Someone" is a powerful exploration of inner conflict, where the protagonist confronts her younger self. The narrative is laden with emotional depth, weaving a tapestry of regret and longing. Through vivid imagery and introspective dialogue, Rizza Mae Sionillo delves into the themes of identity, loss, and the sacrifices one makes for acceptance. The story's haunting mood leaves readers reflecting on their own journeys of self-discovery.

I killed someone

Original Submission by Rizza Mae Sionillo

It is past twelve and she's staring right back at me. Her eyes are bloodshot and blank, her lips are curved up but I can't feel anything, her hair is as messy as the nest outside. I could only see those as it was highlighted and she's in the dark.

She was only staring at me until she reached for my hand with a sinister smile on her lips and pure anger and indistintive anguish in her eyes.

"You! You never learn! You never helped! You've always been so cowardly!!! How dare you smile and laugh?! How dare you?!" She shouted shaking me hardly. I tried to escape from her grasp.

"They say your smart and wise then why?! Why didn't you helped me? Why did you turn a blind eye and a deaf ear when everybody was scrutinizing me?! Why did you just ran away and live your life as if nothing has happen?! Why did you let them trample and kill me?! Why?! Why?!" She keeps shouting loud while shaking me.

"Let me go! Let me go!" I started to cry trying my way out of her grasps.

"Let you go?! Why weren't you happy when you were with me?! When I was with you? Weren't you as proud as I am when I stood before people getting my recognition?! You were there! You were soaring in happiness with me?! Why would you ask me to let you go now?!" Her voice began to tremble. She's crying! In deep sorrow and disappointment,she is crying.

She let go of me and hugged herself in the silence and hid herself in the darkest corner of this room.

My heart sank for the first time in the long time.

"I just want to be recognize. I just want to do the things I am best in. I just want to be myself." She said in hollow. "Why do you have to kill me? Why do you have to left me behind?" She cry and cry. "Why do you have to kill me to serve them? Why do I have to leave to make them live a better life? Why does it cost me for you to live this life? Why? Why?" Her voice echoed inside my head.

The fear I once felt, was gone and replaced with curiosity.

"Who are you?" I dared to ask.

"How could you forgot me?" She replied and step into the light.

I was dumbfounded. My jaw hang a jar as I recognize her.

She.

.

.

.

She was me.

The young,free spirited, passionated 16 years old me. The woman I was talking to was myself. The one that was killed and died.

The one that was scrutinized by the people around her yet still dare to write helding her head high.

The one that whose heart been bruised and wrecked by criticism from the people she trust too much yet still manage to be herself and held her pen.

The one that was called "smart" by people around her yet is stupid for being lazy in doing school works.

The one that is happy and passionate about the things she wanted.

But, I killed her, I killed my old self to be accepted.

I killed her to live this empty yet indeed the reality.

I killed her for the greater good of everyone around.

I killed her even if it means, dying alive.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in literature. Writers from around the world are invited to share their unique stories and perspectives, fostering a global community of creativity and expression. This competition is a testament to the power of words to inspire, challenge, and connect.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rizza Mae Sionillo for sharing her evocative short story "I Killed Someone" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches our understanding of personal identity and the complexities of self-reflection. Thank you, Rizza Mae, for your powerful contribution to this literary celebration.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.