565: STAY CALM

ARIEL'S POV “That was the last time I saw her,” this man continued, his voice breaking. “And yet, she made such an impact on me. I’ve been sober for almost a year now, and it’s all thanks to Sidney. She saw something in me that no one else did, and that changed everything for me.” A hush fell over the church, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. I couldn't take my eyes off this man; I was just staring at him. The funeral service came to a close, and the final notes of the organ echoed through the church. The atmosphere was solemn, heavy with grief and reflection. Luke stood up, taking Janice's hand in his, and together we made our way to the casket. I stared down at my mother’s face, still and peaceful in death. She looked just as she always had, the same twinkle in her eye, the same smile playing across her lips. It was a strange, surreal moment, as if time had stopped, as if she were merely sleeping. "Ariel, we are really sorry about what happened to your mother," H