Chapter 22: The Funeral

“Dearly beloved,” the minister began, but Chelsea’s attention went back to Jake. He looked striking in a suit, especially since he’d filled out in maturity. He’d been lanky, but now he possessed some bulk.

He caught her gaze and she looked down at the ground. Tears struggled to come out, but she didn’t let them. As if her body craved a release, sweat beaded on her face. The humidity and her profound sadness choked her.

She hadn’t been to a funeral since her sister’s where she’d cried like a baby. The pain of losing Jake had been nothing compared to her sister dying compounded by the fact that her mother’s drinking had done the deed. Chelsea didn’t want to feel that way ever again.

The crowd dispersing brought her back to reality. Short service. She waited as many members of the community paid their respects.

Jake had managed to get in line behind her. “Hi.”