The Love From Vengeance

78: IN MY HEART

LUKE’S POV

I stood at the entrance of the funeral home, my heart heavy with grief. Inside, my beloved cousin Riley lay peacefully in a casket, her young life cut short at just seventeen years old. The room was filled with sorrowful faces and the scent of fresh flowers. I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself before stepping forward.

I approached Riley’s parents, my aunt and uncle, who stood next to the casket, tears streaming down their faces. I could see the pain etched on their faces, the weight of loss bearing down on their shoulders.

I hugged them tightly, sharing their grief. “I’m so sorry for your loss,” I whispered, my voice choked with sadness.

“Thank you, Luke. It means a lot to have you here with us,” My aunt, Sarah replied. That was the name of Riley’s mother. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying. I nodded, unable to find the right words to comfort her.

“I can’t believe she’s gone,” she added, her voice trembling

Taking a deep breath, I slowly made my way to a vacant seat near the front row. I sat down, my eyes fixed on the casket. The pain was really intense.

Memories of Riley flooded my mind her infectious laughter, the way she always had a kind word for everyone, and her vibrant spirit. It was hard to believe she was gone.

As the funeral service began, a soft, somber melody filled the room. I listened to the minister was about to speak about Riley’s bright personality and the impact she had on those around her.

filled with compassion, began, “Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered here today to remember and celebrate the beautiful life of Riley. Though her time with

to all who knew her. She had a way of brightening even the darkest moments, reminding us all of the power of

us with our groceries? Always with a smile on her face.” I heard the voice of a lady whispering from

as wide as

after my wife passed away. She made îne feel heard and understood, even when I couldn’t find the words to express my grief.” A

dear friends. She had an innate ability to connect with others,

Riley rallied the community during the floods last year. She

in

She believed in the power of unity

concluded his eulogy, a sense of gratitude filled the room. “Let us carry Riley’s bright light within us. In her memory, let us continue to spread love, kindness, and compassion. Though her time was short, her impact was immeasurable. And as we say our final goodbyes, may we remember Riley as the beautiful soul that she will forever be.” After all these heartfelt eulogies, I found myself standing up to share my own memories.” Riley was more than just a cousin to me. She was my best

we had together, the late–night conversations, and the way she never failed to bring a smile to my face. Riley was a beautiful soul, and her absence will be felt deeply by all of us.”

my seat again, I felt a mix of sadness and relief. Sharing my memories of Riley had brought a small measure of comfort, but the pain of her loss still lingered heavily in my heart. The service concluded with a final prayer, and I joined the procession to the burial

whispered, knowing that Riley would forever hold

grave, surrounded by family and friends. They were sharing stories, laughter, and tears, finding solace in each other’s presence. It was a bittersweet moment. But I wasn’t going to spend another time around

cemetery, my heart heavy with loss. Riley’s memory would forever be in my heart. I knew that life would never be the same without her, but I would honor her by living each day to the fullest, cherishing the

to my direction. She halted the moment her eyes met mine,