candies each Halloween.
Even Dr. Patel came.
He stood quietly at the back and left before I could thank him.
David’s parents flew from Arizona.
His mother, Elaine, collapsed against me upon seeing the little white coffin.
“Where is he?”
I looked at her.
She already knew.
Her son remained in the Bahamas. Bahamastravel guide
His father, Richard, turned away, covering his mouth.
Neither tried defending David.
That meant more than I’d expected.
At the cemetery, rain streamed down my face, hiding my tears.
The minister finished.
People began leaving.
I stayed.
Rebecca touched my shoulder.
“Sarah.”
“I need five minutes.”
“I’ll wait by the car.”
Once everyone left, I crouched near the flowers.
Sometimes your body understands what your mind refuses to accept.
My arms wanted to reach for Lily.
Lift her.
Carry her to the car.
Turn on the heater.
Tell her we could leave this awful place.
