Chapter 96: The Funeral

Maya As I walked into the church, Jackson by my side, the weight of the moment pressed down on me like an unbearable burden. My white dress, hauntingly identical to my wedding gown, felt suffocating—a cruel mockery of what should have been the happiest day of my life. The air inside seemed heavier, the walls closing in with each step. I glanced around and saw Stella sitting in a corner, her shoulders shaking with quiet sobs. Near the coffins, Liam stood rigid, fighting a losing battle against his tears. Why did I never see this day coming? Was I too lost? Images from yesterday replayed in my mind with vivid clarity: walking down the aisle, Nate waiting for me at the altar, the vows we were supposed to take. Then, everything unraveled, spiraling into chaos. My chest tightened as the devastating truth crashed over me again. I had lost him—forever. Never, not even in my darkest dreams, had I imagined this moment: walking toward him… but not to take his hand. To say goodbye. To stand befor