nt back to

the funeral home, just three

ribbons. The director looked ready to turn me away until I slammed my diamo

," I said. "P

asked, his eyes linge

r m

avarice won out. H

. He had always liked my mother. I gave him my phone-an iPhone 15

im. "Please. It doesn't have to be deep

saw me, but he

s ready. The pine box sat at t

d down t

down. It was narrow, like a hug that wouldn't let go.

The battery indicator was flashing red. *C

t the spare batteries at the estate, d

er's pocket. He lowered it dow

the caretake

nsw

"Sofia needs her dinner. If you aren't here in ten

voice was calm. It was the first time i

use

said. "The d

u're done!" he shouted. "I own y

I whispered.

I swear

wer cord from t

mming

nce was

. "What was that noi

t block had been dropped onto my lungs. The circul

le

I gasped, the darkness closing

wood beside my ear. I could hear his v

! Answ

ought of white roses.

thought of n