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epilogue

In the days leading up to Edie's funeral, Lando found himself immersed in a sea of emotions and grief. The pain of losing someone so dear to him weighed heavily on his heart and soul. His days became a blur as time seemed to lose its meaning, and the world around him appeared muted and distant.

Every moment felt surreal as if he was moving through a hazy fog. The tears he shed for Edie left his eyes swollen and his spirit broken. He found it difficult to find solace or comfort in anything, as the absence of Edie's presence loomed over him like a dark cloud.

Preparing for the funeral became an agonizing process. Lando had to face the reality of saying a final goodbye to the person he loved so deeply. Each decision felt heavy, from choosing the music that would play during the service to deciding what to say when it was his turn to speak.

The support of friends and family surrounded him, but the pain remained. Their well-intentioned words of comfort and condolences seemed distant and hollow, unable to penetrate the depth of his sorrow. Lando felt isolated in his grief as if no one could truly understand the magnitude of his loss.

The funeral day arrived, casting a somber atmosphere over everyone in attendance. Lando's heart ached as he stood among the mourners, seeing the faces of those who loved Edie, their expressions etched with sorrow and tears. He clung to the memories they shared, the laughter and joy they experienced together, even as the weight of her absence bore down on him.

As he stood before the casket, his voice trembled as he spoke about Edie, sharing his love for her, and recounting the ways she had impacted his life. The room was filled with collective grief, each person grappling with their own sense of loss and longing.

The funeral became a bittersweet tribute to Edie's life, a celebration of the moments they cherished together. It was a time for Lando and others to honor her memory, share stories, and find clarity in the collective support and love of those who gathered to say goodbye.

"How're you doing?" Charles asked, sitting down beside the stone-faced man. 

"Good," He spoke in a monotone voice, almost drowning out all the emotion. "You?" 

"Good," Charles replied. "Death is truly beautiful isn't it," Charles smiled. 

"Yeah, it is," Lando replied, kissing the inside of his teeth. 

"You can't beat yourself up about it dude, she's not coming back." Charles frowned, watching as his friend's eyes tinged over with guilt. 

"I could have stopped it," He spoke slowly, afraid that if he raised his voice by the smallest octive he'd break down again. "I really could have," 

"No one could've stopped her, she's a Leclerc." He smiled, standing up. "We're going to the graveyard to watch them lower the casket, you coming?" 

"Give me a minute, don't start without me though." Lando smiled, having the greatest idea flash into his head. 

"We could never," Charles smiled, hugging him before bidding farewell. 

As Lando drove back to the cemetery, his heart was heavy with both sadness and determination. Paya and Nori, the two cats that Edie adored, nestled in his arms, providing a small sense of comfort and companionship. Their purring filled the car, a gentle reminder of the love they shared with Edie.

Upon arriving at the cemetery, Lando carried the cats with him as he made his way to Edie's resting place. The sun cast a warm glow over the landscape, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Lando carefully set Paya and Nori down near the gravestone, watching as they explored the area with curiosity.

He sat down on the grass, his gaze fixed on the epitaph engraved on the stone that bore Edie's name. Memories flooded his mind, each one a testament to their love and the bond they shared. He talked to Edie as if she were there, sharing updates about their cats, their daily lives, and the struggles he faced without her by his side.