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

paused, surveying the somber faces before continuing, “Riley possessed a radiant spirit that brought joy to all who knew her. She

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

bounds. She had a heart as wide as

me after my wife passed away. She made îne feel heard and understood, even when I couldn’t find the

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 sorrows. She made us feel seen and

community during the floods last year. She organized a fundraiser

in

softly, acknowledging her words. “Riley’s spirit of service was boundless. She believed in

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

and the way she never failed to bring a smile to

comfort, but the pain of her loss still lingered heavily in my heart. The service concluded with a final prayer, and

knowing that Riley would forever hold a special

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

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 we had shared

my direction. She halted the moment her eyes met mine, and at this point, this sadness had transfigured into rage.