Mine novel Chapter 61

Kimberly watched as the body of the man she once called the love of her life and fiancé was being lowered six feet under the ground, along with his two friends. Her tears flowed freely down her cheeks, as she realized that he was truly gone, he has left her forever. She would never see those lovely blue eyes or his beautiful smile ever again. She would miss seeing him looking all handsome in his white uniform.

An arm went around her shoulder, giving it a light squeeze. She turned to see who the arm belonged to, it was Tony, Ian’s dad. He gave her a sad smile before handing over to her the flag which was previously on Ian’s coffin.

Kimberly stared at it for a minute, tracing her fingers on the fabric before breaking down in tears. Why aren’t these people blaming her for what happened? Why did they believe the story that some wild animals killed their son and his friends? She doesn’t deserve their understanding, not one bit.

Mr. Gareth hugged Kimberly, whispering soothing words in her ear. She wished she was as strong as him. He was broken, she could obviously see it, but he wasn’t crying, even though it was his son who got killed. He still comforted her like she was Ian’s only family, making her feel all the more guilty.

Ian’s mom was an entirely different story. She was hospitalized after she heard the news of her son’s death. She wasn’t supposed to be present at his funeral, but she insisted on attending because, she wanted to see her son for the very last time.

Some distance from Kimberly sat Joanne, Ian’s mom, in a wheelchair, still in the state of shock. Kimberly can never forgive herself for causing this much pain to Ian’s family and the other families involved.

“Thank you” she managed to mutter, after pulling away from the hug.

Tony nodded in reply and was about walking away when she stopped him.

“Um… I- I hope Joanne forgives me someday” she stuttered, stealing a glance at Joanne, who was now being comforted by Ian’s eldest brother.

Kimberly knew Joanne was mad at her for what happened, since she didn’t even acknowledge her when she went to pay her a visit at the hospital. She knows she deserves more than what she was getting, but she couldn’t help it, that small action by Joanne hurts her so much.

Mr. Gareth stared at his wife for a few seconds. There was pity, hurt and regret in his eyes. Kimberly could tell he was going through the same thing as her, partially blaming himself for the unfortunate incident because, he was the one who convinced Kimberly into agreeing to go on that trip.

He turned his attention back to Kimberly and took her hand in his, giving it a squeeze.

“Believe me, she isn’t mad at you” he assured her before walking away, to go to his family.

Kimberly watched Ian’s family until they left the cemetery, but that didn’t stop her from staring at their retreating cars, until they were no longer in sight. A gentle touch on her arm brought her back to reality.

“Ready to leave?” her dad asked in a calm voice.