Chapter 147: Ignored.
After the church session her father was finally taken to the gravesite to be buried beside her mother. As the ceremony drew to a close, Abby stepped forward to place a single white rose on her father’s casket, a symbol of love and remembrance. She lingered for a moment, her hand lingering on the smooth surface of the casket, before stepping back to join Cage.
Together, they watched as the casket was lowered into the ground, the sound of earth hitting wood echoing in the quiet stillness of the cemetery. It was a moment of profound sadness, but also of closure, as Mr. Falcone was laid to rest in his final resting place.
As the ceremony concluded, the mourners began to disperse, offering words of comfort and support to one another as they made their way back to their cars. Abby felt a sense of peace wash over her, knowing that her father was finally at rest.
Cage excused himself to speak to some business people. Leaving her alone.Abby stood silently, her thoughts consumed by the weight of her grief. Lost in her own sorrow, she barely noticed the figure approaching her until she felt arms wrap around her in a tight embrace.
Startled, Abby stiffened for a moment before realizing who it was. With a forced smile, she turned to see her cousin Lily standing before her, her expression a mask of faux concern.
"Abby, sweetie, I’m so sorry for your loss," Lily said, her voice dripping with insincerity. "Your father was such a wonderful man."
Abby fought back a surge of resentment at Lily’s hollow words. She knew all too well the true nature of their relationship, tainted by jealousy and resentment over the years.
"Thank you, Lily," Abby replied, her tone polite but distant. She had no desire to engage in small talk with her cousin, especially not now, when her emotions were raw and her heart heavy with grief.
Lily’s arms lingered around Abby for a moment longer before she pulled away, her gaze shifting uncomfortably. "Um, how are you holding up?" she asked, her voice tinged with forced concern.