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.

gentlemen, we are gathered here today to remember and celebrate the beautiful life

all who knew her. She had a way of brightening even the

Always with a smile on her face.” I heard the voice of a

minister continued, “Indeed, Riley’s kindness knew no bounds. She had a heart as wide as the ocean,

îne feel heard and understood, even when I couldn’t find

innate ability to connect with others, to empathize with their joys and sorrows. She made

rallied the community during the floods last year. She organized a fundraiser and worked

in

words. “Riley’s spirit of service was boundless. She believed in the power

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 friend, my confidante, and the one who always made me laugh when I needed it the most.” My voice trembled.

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

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 site. The sky was overcast, mirroring the somber atmosphere. As the casket was lowered into the ground, I watched, my eyes filled

would forever hold

They were sharing stories, laughter, and tears, finding solace in each other’s presence. It

that life would never be the same without her, but I would honor her by living each day to

Ariel, walking to my direction. She halted the moment her eyes met mine, and at this point, this