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 mad