Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 781

The doctor handed me a tiny bottle. "This is the medication they used. Mr. Yule gave it to Mrs. Yule first... then took it himself."

My hands tightened around the bottle as I read the label, my throat like sandpaper. "They must've been in so much pain to make a choice like that," I whispered.

Uncle Damien had hinted at something like this before, but I thought it was just a "what-if "plan. Never in a million years did I think he'd actually go through with it. The idea of him sparing Aunt Abby from suffering and then following her... It didn't feel real. "This is the letter Mr. Yule left for you," the doctor added, offering me an envelope.

I unfolded it, my heart sinking as Uncle Damien's handwriting filled my vision:

***

Rea,

I'm sorry I can't stay to take care of you anymore. Ever since Narelle passed, I decided this would be the way I'd go. Abby and I agreed-it was what we wanted.

Please don't be sad, and don't think I'm selfish. I just couldn't stay in this world any longer. Abby and I are going to see Narelle.

Having you in my life these past days meant everything. But I couldn't let go of my daughter. I had to be with her.

After we're gone, don't blame the hospital or anyone else. Cremate us and bury our ashes with Narelle's, so the three of us can finally be together.

care about stuff like that, so

Love,

an

Uncle Damien

*******

the words, dripping onto the paper and smudging the ink. But crying

I had him and Aunt

burial was unreal-perfectly blue

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Chapter 781

like a hug. It was like the universe was

every death leaves regrets, I

Damien, Aunt Abby, Narelle... I hope you're happy together

Uncle Damien's inheritance. Instead, I donated everything and started a foundation in

I was wrapping up the foundation's

Nate's leaving the day after tomorrow," she said. "He wanted me to remind you to

looked up at the impossibly blue sky, clouds fluffy and unreal, like a painting. "There's no need," I said