Falling Apart (sequel to Taking On The World)

:9: How Do You Tell a Kid That His Sister's Dead?

:9: How Do You Tell A Kid That His Sister's Dead?

No POV

Riley's funeral fell on a rainy Saturday morning. Kinda cliché, if you think about it.

People gathered around the hole that her coffin was being laid into. Everyone who's life Riley had ever touched showed up. Some had never been told about her death by her immediate family, but they showed up anyway.

Cory looked completely broken. His face was expressionless, almost as if it hurt so much to lose her that no feelings could actually show themselves. Topanga stood holding Annie, tears streaming down her face as her shoulders shook in silent sobs. Everyone from Farkle to Geralyn (the cafeteria lady) had shown up, all crying or with sincere expressions on their faces. Even Annie was a lot quieter than she usually was, as though she understood what was going on.

Finally, Auggie spoke up.

"Mommy? What's wrong?"

Topanga looked down at her son with sad eyes. How do you tell a kid that his older sister is dead?

"What's the matter? Why does everyone look so sad?" At this question, someone towards the back of the crowd started crying loudly.

"Where's Riley?" Auggie asked innocently.

Topanga drew in a shaky breath. "Riley's in a better place."

"No, she's not. The best place you can be is with people who you love, and she's not here. Where is she?" A look of fear took over his face. "Has she found people she loves more than me?"

"No, honey." Topanga struggled to find the words. "She still loves you very much."

"But if she loves me, then she would be here. I'm sad, Mommy. You don't leave the people you love."

"She loves you more than you will ever realise. She just can't be here now."

Auggie frowned. He didn't understand. Maybe he wouldn't for a while. Maybe he never would. All he knew was that his favourite person in the world wasn't with him to hug him and tell him that she loves him.

"I guess I understand..." Auggie said slowly. He then turned towards Riley's grave, proving to his family that he knew Riley was in it. "Riley, if you can hear me now, I want you to know that even if you don't love me anymore, I forgive you. No matter what you do, I love you."

From across the grave, Maya pushed her way past everyone and ran off, with tears in her eyes.

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This was depressing.

Also, just so you know, I tried to make Auggie seem very accepting of the fact that Riley mightn't love him anymore (his words, not mine). I've always found that children are very forgiving people, and no matter what is done to them they always get over it and face the world with a smile. I love children. They've always inspired me.

Also, first chapter of my new fanfic is up! But I need a cover! If you can make me one, please DM it to me.

Question time!

Where do you think Maya went? Do you think anyone went after her?

Xoxo, stay fabulous!