Chapter 356

Without speaking they separated and Chloe followed Declan out to his car. He drove them across the city to the church where the service would be held. It was a small white chapel that was no doubt more used to hosting weddings than funerals, but Chloe thought it a fitting venue to farewell such a sweet little girl. They parked and held hands as they walked up to the entrance where they were greeted by Caitlyn’s parents. Tracey hugged Chloe and for a brief moment, they held on to each other, bonded by their grief. “Thank you,” Tracey whispered in her ear. “Thank you for everything.” Chloe squeezed her in reply, not able to speak without falling apart. Declan placed a hand on the small of her back and ushered her into the church where they found a seat. He kept her close and she leaned on him, allowing herself to need him today. Tomorrow she could be strong. Tomorrow she could start putting her life back together, but for today she needed him and his stoic presence to help her make it th