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.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered here today to remember and celebrate the beautiful life of Riley. Though her time with us was tragically short, she left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.”

joy to all who knew her. She

smile on

had a heart as wide as the ocean, and

time to listen to me 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 man sitting behind me vocalized.

looked at him with understanding eyes. “Riley had a special gift, dear friends. She had an innate ability to connect with others, to empathize with their joys and

how Riley rallied the community during the floods last year. She organized

in need.”

was boundless. She believed in the power of unity and

And as we say our final goodbyes, may we remember Riley as the beautiful soul that

remember the countless adventures we had together, the late–night conversations, and the way she never failed to bring a smile to my face.

in my heart. The service concluded with a final prayer, and I joined the procession to the burial site. The sky was overcast, mirroring the somber atmosphere. As the casket was lowered into the

forever hold a special place in my

stood by Riley’s grave, surrounded by family and friends. They were sharing stories, laughter, and tears, finding solace in each other’s presence. It was

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 moments

the moment her eyes met